UPDATE 5/30: Amid backlash, Spotify now says it will issue refunds to Car Thing buyers. The company updated an FAQ page about the device's demise to add a "How can I request a refund?" section. To get your money back, you'll have to "contact customer support with proof of purchase to discuss [your] options," so dig out your credit card statements.
Original Story 5/25:
Come December, Spotify will brick its Car Thing accessory, and buyers are not happy.
Originally launched to a limited audience in October 2021, the $89.99 Car Thing allowed Spotify users to control the music-streaming service in their cars via voice recognition and preset buttons.
Spotify stopped making its Car Thing in 2022 due to low demand and supply chain issues, but it continued to sell the device on its website at a discounted $49.99. Come Dec. 9, "Car Thing will be discontinued and will no longer be operational," Spotify says. It recommends people instead use the Spotify app on their phones or via Bluetooth or cable connections for in-car listening.
The company is telling people to factory reset and recycle their Car Things. Spotify is not offering any sort of trade-in option or refund, it says.
According to Spotify, the decision "allows us to focus on developing new features and enhancements that will ultimately provide a better experience to all Spotify users." But those who paid for and still use their Car Thing are annoyed the device will become inoperable.