Spotify is officially offering refunds to customers affected by the sudden discontinuation of its “Car Thing” streaming device. The company’s decision to sunset the hardware, scheduled for December 9, 2024, has triggered a wave of public backlash, social media protests, and a formal class-action lawsuit in the Southern District of New York.
From Market Hype to Digital E-Waste
Launched in February 2022, the Car Thing was marketed as a dedicated in-car interface for Spotify users. Despite CEO Daniel Ek previously highlighting massive consumer demand—citing a waitlist of over 2 million users—the product was discontinued just months after its release. While the company promised to maintain support for existing units, the recent announcement of a total service shutdown has rendered the hardware essentially useless, sparking concerns over electronic waste and consumer rights.
Users Fight Back Against “Bricking”
The backlash has been particularly vocal on TikTok, where users argue that the company’s recommendation to switch to Android Auto or CarPlay ignores those who drive older vehicles without built-in infotainment systems. Many customers have expressed frustration that a device purchased for $90 is being “bricked” despite functioning perfectly.
The criticism intensified as users reported inconsistent experiences with customer support. While some were initially offered Premium subscription credits, others were told no reimbursement was available. Following the public outcry, Spotify has now established a formal refund process for users who can provide proof of purchase.
Legal and Financial Pressure Mounts
The controversy coincides with a broader period of instability for the streaming giant, which cut approximately 1,500 jobs late last year. Beyond the hardware failure, Spotify is currently facing a class-action lawsuit alleging that the company misled consumers by selling a product destined for obsolescence without initially providing a clear path for refunds.
How to Seek Support
Spotify has directed affected users to their official customer support portal to address concerns and initiate the refund process. Despite these efforts, the company remains under fire for its recent pattern of subscription price hikes and the decision to move previously free features, such as lyrics, behind a paywall.
As the December 9 deadline approaches, the situation remains a significant PR challenge for the company, highlighting the growing tension between streaming platforms and their user base regarding service value and hardware longevity.