Spotify's Car Thing, first revealed in 2019, is making rounds on the internet again. New images of the Car Thing found in the iOS Spotify app all but confirm that the company hasn't forgotten about its smart-assistant device for cars.
Car Thing Renders Found in Spotify's iOS App
The new pictures, first spotted by MacRumours, reveal a hardware device that can be mounted on the dashboard of your car. The device has a large circular knob next to a small display. The knob's use is unclear at this point, although the design does imply it could be used for controlling the volume.
The screen, rectangular in shape, is unlike the circular one revealed on the Spotify Newsroom in 2019. Only time will tell whether it is touch-enabled or not.
According to the new images, the device has four smaller buttons on top that will most likely aid in navigating the UI or controlling the playback.
I imagine the knob on Spotify’s Car Thing is for volume and it looks like your phone connects to both Car Thing and your car’s audio via BT. I wonder if Car Thing could show directions as well. pic.twitter.com/1pDq1HMFwI
— Steve Moser (@SteveMoser) April 2, 2021
Car Thing is Bluetooth enabled, allowing it to easily connect with a car's entertainment system. The device will be powered using a 12V power outlet.
Looking at the mounting mechanism, Spotify's Car Thing can be mounted both vertically and horizontally.
Car Thing Is a Voice Controlled Smart Assistant
According to the 2019 press release on the Spotify Newsroom, Car Thing is a "voice-controlled music and podcast device."
Spotify had said that the device was being tested in the US with a "small group of invited Spotify Premium users."
Spotify had also stated they were unsure whether Car Thing would ultimately be released for consumers but looking at the new images, it is likely that it will.
Despite stating that their focus was primarily on the software aspect of their business, Spotify said that users can expect to see other voice-controlled devices. These include "Voice Thing" and "Home Thing."
Consumer Availability of Car Thing
All evidence so far points towards a consumer release of Car Thing.
Whether users will actually purchase it depends on Car Thing's ability to trump features such as Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Both these features allow users to do exactly the same things as Car Thing. They allow users to navigate through their music library using voice commands, and more.
Another important factor is navigation. Car Thing may employ the use of the Spotify and Waze integration for a good navigation experience.
Ultimately, the target market for Spotify's Car Thing is people who may not have Android Auto or Apple CarPlay enabled in their car but are still looking for a hands-free music experience while driving.
