In April 2021, Spotify launched its first-ever voice-controlled device for vehicles called ‘Car Thing’ in a limited quantity to select users. At the time of launch the device was released as a “limited product launch”, so it was not easily available for purchase. Now, the company is expanding access to Car Thing to all subscribers in the United States for $79.99.
Access to Spotify’s Car Thing is no longer limited
The device itself features a thin profile and two prominent buttons on the front and is extremely lightweight and small. Out of the two buttons given, the small button serves as a back button and a larger knob allows you to interact with the touch screen. In addition, Car Play supports the “Hey Spotify” wake command so it can be used hands-free.
Car Thing requires a smartphone to function. The device connects to your iPhone via Bluetooth to allow it to access music, podcasts, and more. The device arrives with a 12V adapter into which users will plug the provided USB-A to USB-C cable. Car Thing does not include a rechargeable battery and needs to be plugged in at all times.
The device also ships with three various mounts: a CD player mount, a vent mount, and a dashboard mount. To easily take off the device, users can even clip a magnetic attachment to these said mounts.
Here is everything you need to know about purchasing Car Thing, as outlined by Spotify:
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Select users in the U.S. who have signed up for the Car Thing waitlist will be among the first to purchase Car Thing for $79.99.
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All U.S. Spotify users—Free and Premium—can sign up for the Car Thing waitlist.
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Car Thing does require a paid Spotify Premium subscription plan—whether that’s an Individual, Family, or Student plan—and connects to your smartphone for mobile data.
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We’ve already released some software updates and will continue to evolve and improve it over time.
According to Spotify, it is not attempting to compete with in-car infotainment systems rather it could serve to be an alternative for some users. Car Thing does not provide functionality outside of audio like CarPlay.
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