Revive Abandoned Spotify Car Thing with Free Firmware Update

Key Takeaways

1. The Spotify Car Thing has been discontinued since December 2024, prompting new initiatives to repurpose the device.
2. Nocturne V3 is the latest firmware for Car Thing, introducing features like Bluetooth tethering, direct Spotify login, and local file playback.
3. Nocturne is an open-source project, allowing users to download the firmware from GitHub and offering offline functionality.
4. The installation process is simple, utilizing a web-based app called Terbium for compatibility with various platforms.
5. Spotify’s initial discontinuation of support led to consumer backlash, resulting in refunds and resources for the open-source community to develop Nocturne.

The Spotify Car Thing has been halted since December 2024, leading to several initiatives aimed at utilizing the now-unused device. One notable initiative is Nocturne, a new firmware crafted for the Car Thing that seeks to provide the gadget with a “second chance.”

New Features in Nocturne

Brandon Saldan recently shared on X that Nocturne V3 is now available, claiming it to be “the most advanced Car Thing firmware ever.” This update revives various features such as Bluetooth tethering, direct Spotify login, support for OTA updates, and gesture control, while also introducing the ability to play local files.

Open-Source Availability

Nocturne is an open-source endeavor, and users can fetch the firmware from the project’s GitHub page. Version 3 marks the first stable release for Nocturne, with developers reportedly dedicating the past year to fine-tuning it and adding functionalities that would transform it into a true alternative to the original firmware, which required a connection to Spotify’s servers for operation. One of the key advantages that Car Thing users will appreciate is the fully offline capability, which sidesteps the issues faced by the original firmware and the risk of the device becoming a costly paperweight should support cease. The Nocturne project invites donations on its website to help prevent such a scenario.

Easy Installation Process

The setup instructions appear quite straightforward and are conducted through a web-based app named Terbium, ensuring compatibility across various platforms as long as a desktop OS and a Chromium-based browser are in use. When Spotify discontinued the Car Thing after only three years of service, it essentially encouraged consumers to throw away their devices. It wasn’t until strong criticism and the threat of legal action arose that Spotify offered refunds and provided the necessary resources to the open-source community, enabling initiatives like Nocturne to thrive.

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