Spotify axes Car View, promises ‘new ways’ for in-car listening

Spotify has suddenly scrapped its Car View feature, which it introduced in 2019 on its app for iOS and Android for an easier and safer driving experience.

The confirmation of the move was made on a Spotify support thread, and only in response to irritated users complaining it had vanished without notice, asking why the decision had not been announced as part of a major news item rather than being hinted at some weeks ago.

A Spotify moderator confirmed the news but emphasised the company was still committed to improving the overall car listening experience.

“On the contrary, we’re actively exploring a variety of new ways to deliver the best in-car listening experience,” the spokesperson posted.

“Think of retiring car-view as something that needs to happen in an effort to make way for new innovations coming down the track.”

The company said an alternative would be to listen hands-free via Google Assistant.

“This feature also works with Google Maps so you can navigate while listening to Spotify. In order to do that, you can link your accounts and say ‘Hey Google, play Spotify’.

“We hope you understand. Stay tuned for further developments!”

The promised ‘innovations’ could be related to Spotify Car Thing, which will be offered for $112 to premium subscribers to use the platform physically or by voice instructions.

If that is the case, expect a consumer backlash that a free safety initiative has been scrapped to push users towards an extra $112 device.

In early November, TMN revealed its Australian launch had been delayed due to chip of shortages and two million people joining the waiting list.

Spotify is also retiring the in-car Now Playing view for Android users.