Audi EVs Get a Spotify Upgrade You Haven't Seen Before
Spotify is rolling out its first truly native in-car music streaming app, and Audi electric vehicles are leading the way. This new application gives Spotify full control over the user interface, moving beyond previous design limitations imposed by other platforms. It promises a deeply integrated and feature-rich experience, making your drive in an EV even more enjoyable. This advancement highlights how modern electric vehicles are becoming platforms for cutting-edge digital experiences, pushing the boundaries of in-car entertainment.
Say goodbye to generic interfaces: Spotify has completely redesigned its in-car app, giving itself total freedom over how it looks and feels on your vehicle's display. This means the app is no longer constrained by existing software guidelines, allowing Spotify to "draw all the pixels" and own the entire user experience, as stated by Jonathan Tarlton, Spotify's Automotive Business Development Lead, in an interview with The Verge.
This newfound freedom allows for exciting new features. Passengers can now enjoy lyrics displayed directly on their dedicated screens. A simple QR code scan lets passengers join shared listening sessions and add songs to the queue. While videos and lyrics can appear on the main display, these visual elements are safely restricted once the car is in motion, ensuring focus remains on the road. Plus, the app seamlessly integrates with the car’s built-in voice assistant, letting drivers manage their music hands-free with commands like "Hey Audi."
Getting this enhanced experience is easy for Audi owners; the app can be installed or updated directly from the Audi Application Store in the infotainment system. After a quick sign-in using a QR code and your smartphone, the app operates independently, freeing your personal device. While this native integration offers a superior experience, Spotify reassures users that it remains committed to phone projection systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, aiming to provide choice for all drivers.
Initially, the new Spotify app is available in the United States for the A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron electric models, alongside certain 2026 A5, Q5, and A6 combustion models. Its reach will soon expand to 47 markets globally, including Europe, Asia, and the Americas. This marks just the beginning, with more automakers expected to adopt Spotify's innovative in-car app in the future, further solidifying the blend of entertainment and advanced technology in the evolving world of electric and connected vehicles.