Spotify released a native in-car application built on the Android Automotive operating system for specific Audi models on 21 October. The software debuted on the Audi A6 e-tron, Q6 e-tron, A5, Q5, and A6.
Unlike phone projection, this app runs directly on the vehicle's infotainment hardware, removing the requirement for Bluetooth, aux cables, or phone tethering. Development of the application spanned just over one year.
The Audi application is headful, which enables Spotify to render its own native user interface. Tarlton noted that while the company is heavily invested in phone projection, the rollout focuses on cars with Android-based operating systems.
Passengers can join a wireless Spotify Jam session by scanning a QR code. Front passengers can view lyrics, browse content, and watch videos on secondary displays.
Motion graphics shift to the central display when the car is charging or parked. Spotify can distribute the app through multiple stores using a standard Android Automotive APK.
Data shows that 34 percent of Spotify's monthly active users stream music in cars, while 77 percent of Premium subscribers do the same.
