Spotify Unveils Car Thing Dedicated Smart Player for the Car

In a effort to expand its reach in the lucrative automotive sector, Swedish streaming audio company Spotify has launched its very first hardware product. With free and widely available radio stations still dominating the space, car audio remains the last frontier to be conquered by streaming services. Spotify seems determined to cover that market, even if it requires launching a proof-of-concept product. Spotify Car Thing is basically a dedicated Spotify player with voice controls for Premium subscribers, cutting the ties to the smartphone.

The pace of innovation within the automotive industry is contributing to the competitive growth of premium audio system solutions. The latest report from SAR Insight & Consulting, "In-Car Audio Distribution: The Connection Between Audio and Vehicle Brands," highlights the significant rise and transformation of in-car audio systems and speakers exceeding the expectations of the connected consumer.

The significant growth of connected vehicles and Internet accessibility supported by network expansion is transforming the in-car dashboards of vehicles today and in the future. The automotive market has become increasingly connected, servicing an increased base of audio system solutions. The integration of advanced technologies within the automotive audio space is shaping the in-vehicle radio experience, according to SAR Insight & Consulting.