Spotify’s Car Thing is gone but some users are hacking it back to life

Spotify has officially discontinued its Car Thing device, which allowed users to control music while driving. The announcement came on December 9, 2024, and owners have until January 14, 2025, to contact Spotify for refunds. The decision follows an earlier announcement in May about the product’s shutdown, which stems from poor demand and ongoing supply chain issues. While the device will no longer function with the Spotify streaming service, some users are reportedly finding innovative ways to repurpose the hardware.

Spotify discontinues Car Thing device, offers refunds until January

The Car Thing, introduced in April 2021 at a price point of $90, aimed to provide a simplified way to access Spotify in vehicles lacking modern infotainment systems. However, after only five months on the market, Spotify ceased production due to low sales figures. Customers who activate their devices now encounter a shutdown message stating:

“Car Thing is discontinued and no longer operational. Thank you for being on this journey with us, safe travels. For more information, visit carthing.com. Contact customer service by no later than January 14th, 2025 to discuss your refund options.”

(Image: ballsandbiscuits/Reddit)

Spotify has directed customers to contact its support team for refund options, requiring proof of purchase to facilitate the process. Many users are now facing the reality that the Car Thing has become another piece of e-waste, as Spotify recommends resetting the device to factory settings and disposing of it in accordance with local electronic waste guidelines.

Despite its demise, some enthusiasts are exploring alternative uses for the Car Thing’s hardware. Reports indicate that users have been able to hack the device to run custom software independent of Spotify’s infrastructure. Although Car Thing lacks the processing power to run a full Android operating system, projects like “Desk Thing” illustrate potential repurposing as a controller for desktop setups.

As of now, the Car Thing’s legacy remains mixed. While it aimed to simplify the listening experience for Spotify users on the road, it could not sustain itself in a competitive market dominated by advanced vehicle tech trends. Spotify’s focus on streamlining its product offerings appears to have contributed to the decision to discontinue the Car Thing.

Customer experiences and reactions

Users have expressed disappointment over the Car Thing’s shutdown, as many found it a useful companion during drives. Some have taken to online forums, such as subreddit discussions, to air their grievances. Enthusiasts shared memories and tips for the device, even as they prepared for its end-of-life status. It remains unclear what final reception the device will garner among its remaining users.

Although Spotify has indicated its plans to phase out the product, details regarding the refund process have raised questions about its execution. Users need clarity on terms like documentation requirements and the expected timeline for receiving compensation, with many anxious to secure their refunds before the January deadline.

Spotify’s customer service response will likely set a precedent for how the company handles similar product discontinuations in the future. Spotify’s prior announcements concerning the refund process and device sunset hints at an evolving strategy around customer communication and product lifecycle management.

Featured image credit: Spotify