Something that is on the newer side in regard to technology is Spotify’s “Car Thing.” A few months ago, Spotify put out an ad to advertise their new product. In this ad, the viewers were given a chance to win a car thing for free by giving their email addresses and hoping they will get picked to be lucky winners. Through this, the company hoped to spark interest in its product.
What the Car Thing does is it allows people who do not have a car with a screen to have one and be able to switch the songs, pick the songs, adjust the volume and see which song is playing by having it all on the screen. However, users must have a Spotify premium account to play the Car Thing.
The Car Thing comes with various parts that are used in the setup process. These parts include the car thing, CD mount, dashboard mount, vent mount, magnet, USB cable, power adapter, cable clips, cleaning cloth, setup guide, product guide and product safety information. The Car Thing typically sells for $89.99.
There are many features that include voice control similar to Siri making it easier to use while driving by using no hands but still being able to do what you are trying to do. Spotify describes their Car Thing as a “hardware device designed for your drive. No phone fumbling or lock screens. It’s the car upgrade your ears have been begging for.”
Speaking from experience, I feel that the Car Thing is a pretty affordable option for any person whose car does not have a screen and a screen is something of interest. This is an easier setup and a better price point when compared to having a screen installed into a car and has many of the same characteristics an actual screen would have.
The Car Thing has also been shown that not only does it work well for cars but also desktop computers to control the music. Seeing this product has various uses and makes things safer when changing music in the car, I think it is a good invention and would be worth it for someone who would like a screen in their car. With the holidays coming up, this could be a good gift to give or receive.
However, the company has recently decided to stop production of the Car Thing due to a lack of revenue, as sales fell short for the second quarter of 2022. In addition, many Spotify users did not see a need for the device, as there are a variety of alternatives that allow people to play music in their cars at a more affordable price.
“The goal of Spotify’s Car Thing exploration was to better understand in-car listening, and bring audio to a wider range of users and vehicles,” a Spotify spokesperson said. “Based on several factors, including product demand and supply chain issues, we have decided to stop further production of Car Thing units. Existing devices will perform as intended. This initiative has unlocked helpful learnings, and we remain focused on the car as an important place for audio.”
Since Spotify has stopped production, the Car Thing right now is on sale for $29.99, so individuals are advised to buy one before there is no inventory left. The price may even continue to drop as the company is hoping to rid itself of the Car Thing for a fresh start. Spotify may also be more hesitant to release similar products in the future.
