Spotify has officially pulled the plug on its Car Thing hardware, confirming that all units of the in-car streaming device are now completely non-operational. The shutdown marks the final chapter for the accessory, which was initially launched to provide a dedicated interface for vehicles lacking modern infotainment systems.
The End of the Road for Car Thing
Users began reporting issues earlier today, with many finding their devices stuck on a screen displaying an “no longer operational” message. This notification serves as a final reminder for owners to seek refunds, as the platform officially deactivated the hardware following its previously announced December 9 deadline.
The device, which hit the market in February 2022, was designed to bridge the gap for older vehicles. However, it struggled to gain traction, leading Spotify to discontinue production less than a year after its release, citing supply chain challenges and underwhelming consumer demand.
Refund Policy and Disposal Instructions
The decision to brick the devices triggered significant backlash from the user base, particularly regarding the loss of the original $90 investment. In response to the criticism, Spotify established a refund program for eligible customers.
If you still own a Car Thing, you have until January 14, 2025, to contact customer support. To qualify for a refund, you must provide valid proof of purchase.
What to Do With Your Device
Because the hardware is now obsolete, Spotify is advising users to perform a factory reset on their units before disposal. The company emphasizes that these devices should be recycled according to local electronic waste guidelines to ensure proper environmental handling.
For further updates on the transition, users can monitor the official social media reports documenting the final status of the discontinued units.