Spotify Car Thing no longer works. Spotify deactivated every unit on December 9, 2024, after ending production in 2022, and told owners to factory-reset the device before disposing of it through local electronic-waste programs. The company said it was streamlining its product lineup and had no replacement planned. Owners’ descriptions of the move as “bricking” purchased hardware are understandable criticism of that decision, but the documented facts establish deactivation—not a separately proven attempt to sabotage individual devices.
What happened to Car Thing
Car Thing was a U.S.-only Spotify accessory launched in February 2022 at a listed price of $89.99. It was designed to control Spotify music and podcasts in a car using the phone app, voice commands, a touchscreen, a physical dial and dedicated buttons.
Spotify stopped producing the device later in 2022. In May 2024, it told owners that existing units would stop operating after December 9, 2024. On that date, reports said Car Thing screens displayed a discontinuation message and the devices no longer functioned as Spotify controls.
Spotify said there were “no plans to release a replacement or new version of Car Thing.” Its stated reason was to streamline product offerings and concentrate on new features and enhancements.
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Does “purposely bricking” accurately describe it?
Spotify deliberately set a date after which Car Thing would not operate, so “purposely bricking” describes the practical effect of the shutdown. It should not be stretched into a claim that Spotify physically damaged every unit or acted with a separately documented sabotage motive.
Owners in Spotify’s Community discussions used phrases such as “throw it away,” “brick this device” and “planned obsolescence,” often in connection with refund and recycling complaints. Those comments show how participants characterized the decision; they are not a representative survey of all customers.
Rank #2
- [Upgrade any non-Bluetooth or non-AUX jacks car in 30 seconds]: Turn any vehicle into a wireless Bluetooth audio system in seconds. No new stereo, No dongle hunting.
- [Improved FM Signal Stability for Busy City Driving]: Upgraded noise reduction technology to help minimize static and radio interference common in crowded metro areas.Enjoy crystal-clear sound without FM static noise.
- [Seamless App Audio]: Stream Spotify, Music, YouTube, podcasts, GPS voice navigation, TikTok audio, and hands-free calls through car radio. Ideal for cars, trucks, SUVs, RVs, and vehicles without Bluetooth.1 device connects at a time, lowe audio delay Bluetooth 5.4 makes re-pairing nearly instant, drivers / passengers can easily take turns playing music or making calls.
- [48W Fast USB-C + QC Car Charger]: High-power fast charging, with a maximum of 48W per port—faster than multi-port shared charging. Supports simultaneous charging for phones, tablets. Compatible with iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, iPad, and more. Keeps your devices powered during navigation, streaming, and long-distance driving.
- [FM Adapter + Seamless Auto-Reconnect]: Once paired, it automatically reconnects every time you start the car—no need to re-pair again.Easily switch to a clearer blank FM frequency while traveling between cities. Bluetooth 5.4 delivers faster pairing and a more stable connection.Compatible for iPhone Users no headphone jack car.
What Spotify told owners to do
- Factory-reset the device. Resetting removes personal information and account data before disposal.
- Use local electronic-waste guidance. Spotify directed owners to the relevant local or state waste authority and said to follow applicable e-waste rules. This is a recycling and disposal recommendation, not proof that landfill disposal was required.
- Ask support about a refund. Spotify Community guidance said owners could contact customer support about refund options. That historical instruction does not establish that every owner qualified, how much anyone would receive, or whether the same route remains available in 2026.
Do not buy a used Car Thing expecting a working Spotify controller. The official shutdown date has passed, and no supported replacement model was announced.
Can a dead Car Thing be reused?
Community members have attempted to repurpose the hardware after the shutdown. Those projects are experimental rather than an officially supported restoration, and no dependable current method is established here. Instructions, firmware requirements and safety conditions can change, so verify any project’s present documentation before opening or modifying a unit.
Rank #3
- Carplay and Android Auto with Voice Control: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, this plug-and-play dual din car stereo features the newest voice control technology, just connect it to your smartphone and access map navigation, calling, email, notifications, music and more with the help of Siri/Google Assistant. The carplay screen for car improves driving safety and comfort, making your drive more convenient and enjoyable
- Night Vision Backup Camera: The car screen is equipped with waterproof reversing camera, the Backup Camera can enhances the smoothness and record your driving record your driving process comprehensively, accurately and clearly. Simple operation makes driving safety and parking easier. The camera wire is connected to the reverse light, very convenient to install
- Phone Mirror Link & 4 Audio Output: The 9-inch Carplay Screen for Car supports IOS and Android phone mirroring. The Q9S dual din car stereo with carplay also supports BT audio, local speakers, FM radio and AUX, so you can enjoy clear and stable music in noisy environments, and the carplay sound will bring you a wonderful experience
- OTA Updates: Keep your device up to date with system updates, so you’re always one step ahead. This wireless CarPlay screen automatically pushes updates to adapt to your phone’s system whenever an update is available, ensuring long-term compatibility between your phone and Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other in-vehicle electronics.
- Easy Installation & Fit All Different Car: Portable carplay for car just plug and play directly with dashboard via connect cigarette lighter. No need to disassemble your car's console, keep your car original radio, perfect perfect for coexisting.The car play with screen is suitable for most motor vehicles, such as cars, trucks, vans, pickups and so on
If you cannot verify a safe reuse path, follow local electronic-waste instructions instead of placing the device in ordinary household trash. Keep batteries and electronics out of waste streams that do not accept them.
What to use instead
Spotify’s current in-car guidance lists several connection and control routes. The right choice depends on the phone, vehicle and stereo; no single adapter works in every car.
Rank #4
- Crystal Clear Music Streaming: LENCENT T25 is anti- statics designed, and equipped with noise and wind suppressed by CVC technology that can achieve full duplex sound quality. You can stream music on your car stereo via Bluetooth/ USB Flash Drive (≤32GB) / microSD Card (≤32GB). WMA MP3 WAV APE FLAC music formats are all supported
- Intelligent Dual USB Ports & Safe Charging: Coming with 2 USB ports(5V-2.4A and 5V-1A), you can charge two devices simultaneously. Built-in over-current protection, over-voltage protection, intelligent temperature control, short circuit protection, it will effectively ensure safe charging
- Hands-Free Calling & Voice Navigation: Bluetooth provides a stable connection, while Noise Suppression (CVC) technology and echo-cancellation grants an amazing hands-free calling experience. Besides, you can also get clear voice navigation from your phone’s app, which means driving will be more safely
- Car Battery Voltage Detection & Blue Ambient Light: The FM transmitter will display car’s voltage when plugged into the cigarette lighter. Keep abreast of car battery health at all times to avoid problems when driving. With the circle of blue backlight around this car charger, it will greatly simplify your operation for safer driving. (Please compare the size between the transmitter and your car cigarette lighter )
- Wider Range & Compatibility: This Bluetooth transmitter is well compatible with most of the smartphones and more devices that equipped with bluetooth function. It will automatically connect to its memorized paired Bluetooth device when power on. Also, with the wider range from 88.1MHz - 107.9 MHz, you can get more stable and consequent music experience without interference
| Option | What it requires | Best fit and limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Spotify Connect | A compatible networked playback device and phone | Useful when the car or stereo supports Connect; availability depends on the equipment. |
| Bluetooth | A car stereo with Bluetooth audio, or a compatible Bluetooth adapter | Works wirelessly when the stereo supports the needed Bluetooth profiles. Check the vehicle’s pairing and audio controls. |
| AUX cable | An auxiliary input and a compatible cable | Suitable for stereos with a 3.5 mm input; the phone may need an adapter for its connector. |
| USB cable | A compatible USB port, cable and phone/stereo combination | Some ports play audio while others only charge. Confirm what the vehicle supports. |
| Android Auto | An Android phone and a compatible vehicle or head unit | Provides an integrated driving interface where supported; compatibility varies by phone, car and connection mode. |
| Apple CarPlay | An iPhone and a compatible vehicle or head unit | Provides iPhone-based controls where supported; check the car’s wired or wireless requirements. |
| Built-in Spotify app | A compatible connected-car stereo with Spotify integration | Convenient when the vehicle’s own software supports Spotify, but availability differs by make, model, market and software version. |
Before purchasing anything, identify the car’s available ports, whether its stereo supports Bluetooth audio, and whether Android Auto or Apple CarPlay is supported. A Bluetooth adapter or AUX/USB cable can be a reasonable category of replacement, but only after those checks.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Safe setup after Car Thing
Spotify advises setting up in-car connections before driving and avoiding interaction with a device while the vehicle is moving. Pair the phone, test playback and configure controls while parked. If a connection fails, stop safely before changing settings or troubleshooting.
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Quick Recap
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- 【Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto】Seamlessly connect your iPhone or Android via Bluetooth/WiFi to access music, maps, calls, and apps on the 7" HD car play screen. Built-in voice control with Siri/Google Assistant lets you navigate, play music, or answer calls hands-free. The Apple Carplay Screen is the perfect choice for drivers looking for a safer, smarter upgrade to their car's infotainment system without replacing the factory stereo.
- 【Voice Control & Hands-Free & Real-Time GPS Navigation】Carplay screen for car utilizes the latest in voice control technology. With the Apple car play, you can effortlessly voice control a variety of functions, such as hands-free calling, music playback and more, along with real-time GPS navigation that provides accurate route planning and traffic updates to ensure you don't miss any turns or lane changes. The entire process can be achieved through voice control, increasing driving safety.
- 【Upgraded Audio Output & Bluetooth 5.3】Enjoy immersive sound via Bluetooth 5.3, AUX, FM transmitter, or the car’s original speakers. The upgraded wireless Carplay car stereo audio system delivers studio-quality stereo sound for music, calls and navigation prompts. Flexible connectivity options make it ideal for audiophiles and everyday drivers alike.
- 【7’’ HD Car Touch Screen & Wireless Mirror Link】Sync your smartphone to the 1024x600 HD Android Auto screen for car for wireless mirroring of YouTube, TikTok, and GPS apps. Car audio receivers is perfect for long trips, entertain kids with vibrant videos or mirror your phone’s interface for intuitive control. Enjoy the high-definition large-screen video experience.
Timeline at a glance
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| February 2022 | Car Thing launched in the United States at a listed $89.99 price. |
| 2022 | Spotify ended production. |
| May 2024 | Spotify notified owners that service would end after December 9, 2024, and said no replacement or new version was planned. |
| December 9, 2024 | Car Thing units stopped operating and showed a discontinuation notice. |
| 2026 | No current refund eligibility, amount or processing status is established by the available public guidance. |
What this means for owners
- The device’s failure is an intentional service shutdown, not evidence that every unit suffered a physical hardware fault.
- Spotify’s documented path is reset, then disposal through local electronic-waste channels.
- A historic support contact about refunds is not a guarantee of payment today.
- There is no announced Spotify replacement for Car Thing.
- Phone-and-stereo options remain available, but compatibility must be checked for each vehicle.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
