Spotify first unveiled its platform-locked in-car media playing accessory, the 'Car Thing,' in the first half of 2021. For the past year, the Car Thing was only available for a select round of testers who previously signed up to receive one. This round of testing is now complete as Spotify has announced the Car Thing is officially available for purchase by the general public.
The Car Thing enables the use of Spotify on vehicles that do not have smart features built into their dashboard console already. This device connects to the car either through Bluetooth or a simple audio jack and connects to the user's phone via Bluetooth. Following this setup, users can conveniently navigate their Spotify dashboards via a touchscreen which allows for quickly selecting music without detracting from driving focus.
The Car Thing costs $89.99 USD and is available for purchase via Spotify's website.
Dedicated In-Car Media Players
Spotify Released the 'Car Thing' in the United States Market
Trend Themes
1. In-car Media Players - The trend of in-car media players is growing, as companies like Spotify introduce devices that connect to cars that do not have smart features built into their dashboard.
2. Smart Car Accessories - The emergence of devices like Spotify's Car Thing opens up opportunities for the development of more smart car accessories.
3. Hands-free Technology - The trend towards hands-free technology is expanding beyond smartphones, as devices like the Car Thing allow drivers to safely control music and stay focused on the road.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - Companies within the automotive industry can leverage the trend of in-car media players to integrate more smart features into their own vehicles.
2. Consumer Electronics - Companies within the consumer electronics industry can capitalize on the emergence of smart car accessories that allow for hands-free control of music and other features.
3. Music Streaming - The launch of devices like the Car Thing presents an opportunity for companies that specialize in music streaming, such as Spotify, to expand their product offerings beyond smartphones and computers.