Spotify To End Support For Car Thing, Users Express Discontent
Spotify is encountering ongoing criticism for its decision to end support for Car Thing, its in-car streaming device, initially announced in May. The gadget will cease to function from December 9, 2024. Users, particularly from Gen Z, have taken to TikTok to voice their dissatisfaction and highlight the lack of built-in infotainment systems in their vehicles.
Car Thing had a brief market presence, launching in February 2022 and being discontinued the same year. Spotify had promised to keep the device operational for existing users. CEO Daniel Ek had previously suggested strong consumer interest, citing that over 2 million users had joined the waitlist before its release.
Despite this, Car Thing likely underperformed or wasn't viable for sustained investment due to economic constraints. Spotify laid off around 1,500 staffers late last year, following earlier cuts that impacted hundreds.
User Dissatisfaction and Refund Efforts
Car Thing users are primarily concerned with retaining functionality or receiving refunds for the $90 device. Some have complained directly to Spotify via DMs on X or through emails shared on Reddit. While some users reported receiving Premium subscription offers, others were denied refunds by customer service.
Spotify has recently initiated a refund process for Car Thing, provided users have proof of purchase. The company communicated this in a follow-up email last week but did not explicitly promise refunds, directing users to customer support instead.
Ongoing Complaints and Legal Challenges
Despite the refund process, many users continue to plea with Spotify on TikTok not to deactivate their devices. Complaints about Car Thing have become so prevalent that TikTok's algorithm suggests "what is the Spotify Car Thing" as a search query on some videos.
Additionally, Spotify faces a class action lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The lawsuit alleges Spotify misled consumers by selling a product destined to become obsolete without offering refunds. The suit was filed on May 28.
Spotify's Official Stance
A Spotify spokesperson stated, "The goal of our Car Thing exploration in the U.S. was to learn more about how people listen in the car. In July 2022, we announced we'd stop further production and now it's time to say goodbye to the devices entirely. Users will have until December 9, 2024, until all Car Thing devices will be deactivated."
The dissatisfaction around Car Thing comes amid other grievances from Spotify users. Recently, Spotify paywalled access to lyrics, prompting threats of account cancellations. Additionally, subscription rates increased last year, with another hike anticipated in 2024, according to Bloomberg.
For more information on how to continue using Spotify in the car and to reach customer support, visit Spotify Support.
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