In a surprising turn of events, popular music streaming platform Spotify has recently announced that it will effectively render useless all of its “Car Thing” devices. The move comes as part of the company’s decision to shift its focus and resources to its core business: delivering an exceptional audio streaming experience.
Initially launched as a limited release product in 2019, the Spotify Car Thing was designed to allow users to listen to their favorite music and podcasts while on the road. The device, which was essentially a voice-activated smart player with a touchscreen, was intended to be plugged into a vehicle’s dashboard and connected to the user’s Spotify account.
However, despite positive initial feedback and a successful trial period, Spotify has now decided to discontinue the Car Thing and cease support for the product entirely. Starting in late 2021, the company will begin rolling out a software update that will disable the device, effectively bricking it.
This decision may come as a disappointment to those who have invested in the Car Thing, but Spotify has provided valid reasons for its action. In an official statement, the company expressed its desire to focus on delivering the best possible audio streaming service and providing an exceptional user experience. By shifting its attention away from hardware development, Spotify hopes to better concentrate its efforts on improving its core software and expanding its global reach.
Furthermore, the decision may also be rooted in market realities. The prevalence of built-in infotainment systems in modern vehicles, as well as the widespread adoption of smartphone integration technologies such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, have significantly diminished the need for standalone devices like the Car Thing. Spotify has likely recognized this shift and made the strategic decision to allocate resources where they can have the most impact.
For customers who purchased the Car Thing, Spotify has assured them that they will be refunded the full purchase price, including taxes and shipping. Additionally, Spotify will continue to support the Car Thing until February 1, 2022, ensuring that customers have enough time to transition their audio streaming needs seamlessly.
Although it is understandable that Car Thing owners may feel disillusioned by Spotify’s decision, it is essential to acknowledge the rationale behind this choice. By focusing on its core strengths, Spotify is striving to provide an unparalleled streaming experience while adapting to the evolving needs of its users. The decision to brick every Car Thing sold emphasizes Spotify’s commitment to delivering the best possible audio content and reflects the company’s dedication to staying at the forefront of the rapidly changing digital music landscape.
Ultimately, this move demonstrates Spotify’s resilience and willingness to make tough decisions to ensure its long-term success. While the Car Thing may become obsolete, Spotify customers can rest assured that the company’s focus remains firmly on revolutionizing the way we consume and enjoy music and podcasts, providing an exceptional audio streaming experience for years to come.
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