Spotify launches native in-car app, first on Audi vehicles
Spotify's built-in app runs on Audi infotainment systems, no phone pairing needed. Free and Premium listeners get it in select models from October 21.
The story in focus
Spotify released a native in-car app that runs on Audi infotainment systems, starting October 21 in the A6 e-tron, Q6 e-tron, A5, Q5 and A6. It supports hands-free voice controls, passenger screens and in-car Jams, without phone pairing or Bluetooth. Free and Premium listeners can install it from the Audi Application Store.
- The app installs from the Audi Application Store and runs directly on the vehicle's infotainment system, so playback starts without cables or Bluetooth pairing.
- While moving, the center display limits video and lyrics; when parked, including during EV charging, full-screen video podcasts, music videos and lyrics are available.
- Audi is the first automaker to offer the app; Spotify says it will expand to additional global automotive partners over the coming year.
What changed
Spotify has moved beyond phone projection with a native app built for the car's own screens, sound system and voice controls. Listeners sign in once, using a QR code or a pairing code, and playback resumes when the car starts without the phone being tethered.
The app is available from October 21 through the Audi Application Store for both Free and Premium listeners, initially in the all-new electric A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron plus the A5, Q5 and A6. Spotify says availability may vary by vehicle and market, and that an Audi connect package may be required.
How the drive experience works
The interface adapts to driving conditions. While the vehicle is moving, video and lyrics are restricted on the center display, with hands-free voice controls and simplified navigation given priority. When parked, including during EV charging, the main display supports full-screen video podcasts, music videos and real-time lyrics.
Drivers can manage playback through Audi's native voice controls or Spotify's DJ. On supported vehicles, front passengers can use secondary displays to browse, read lyrics or watch video, and can scan an on-screen QR code to join an in-car Jam and add songs to a shared queue from their phones.
What comes next
Audi's upcoming Q7 and Q9 SUVs will get the app at their market launch. Spotify describes Audi as the first automaker to launch the native app and says it plans to extend the experience to more global automotive partners over the coming year.
Which Audi models have Spotify's native in-car app?
From October 21, it is available via the Audi Application Store in the electric A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron, plus the A5, Q5 and A6. The upcoming Q7 and Q9 will follow at market launch. Availability may vary by vehicle and market.
Sources & further reading
- Spotify’s New In-Car App Is Available for Audi Vehicles Starting Today — Spotify ↗newsroom.spotify.com
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