In the world of tech, not all innovations stick the landing. Spotify’s Car Thing, a device that once promised to bring the joy of seamless streaming to cars lacking modern connectivity, is a classic example of a bright idea that didn’t quite catch on. After a brief stint, Spotify announced that Car Thing would no longer be operational come December 9, 2022, ending its journey from a hopeful pioneer to what will soon be a digital relic.
Introduced as a $90 accessory, Car Thing catered to those who cherished Spotify but were stuck with older vehicle models. The gadget boasted voice recognition, preset buttons, and a vibrant four-inch color touchscreen, designed to enhance the in-car listening experience without the need for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Billy Steele from Engadget noted in a 2021 review, “While it seems only Spotify die-hards would be interested in something like this, it does offer an upgrade for older cars. I’m never getting built-in voice control in [the 2006 Honda] Element, and the ability to keep Waze on my phone and Spotify on another display definitely reduced the need to fiddle with either while driving.”
A Strategic Retreat
Spotify’s decision to pull the plug is not just about discontinuing a product but is a strategic move to streamline operations. The official statement cited the discontinuation as part of “ongoing efforts to streamline our product offerings,” which translates to cutting costs and reallocating resources towards more universally beneficial features and enhancements for Spotify users.
This strategic shift reflects a broader trend where companies must decide whether to continue investing in niche markets or refocus on core offerings that promise wider appeal and better returns.
The Echoes of Car Thing
Despite its impending shutdown, Car Thing’s legacy is not entirely dim. For the brief period it was available, it offered a glimpse into the potential for dedicated streaming devices in vehicles, particularly benefiting those with outdated car models. The device’s sunset also comes with a valuable lesson for Spotify and other tech giants: not every hardware venture will turn into a goldmine, but each provides critical learnings and insights.
Moreover, the Car Thing’s closure coincides with its broader strategic shifts, including an increased focus on podcasts and audiobooks, which are helping to diversify its revenue streams beyond music. As reported, despite the hardware setback, Spotify continues to grow its user base, boasting 433 million total users and 188 million subscribers, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in its core business areas.
What’s Next for Spotify and Its Users?
For those still holding on to their Car Things, Spotify advises a factory reset and proper disposal after its services end in December. However, for most users, modern solutions like Bluetooth connectivity, along with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, will continue to serve their mobile entertainment needs without missing a beat.
As Platform shelves its Car Thing, it’s clear that the focus is now squarely on enhancing user experience through software innovations rather than hardware experiments. This pivot could well be a strategic masterstroke as the digital music giant tunes into what its users need most, ensuring it stays ahead in the ever-evolving tech symphony.
