Listen without pairing your phone
Spotify is launching its native app for Audi vehicles today, giving Free and Premium listeners playback through the car’s infotainment system without pairing or tethering a phone (opens in a new tab). Initial availability covers the electric A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron, plus the A5, Q5 and A6, with installation through the Audi Application Store.
- Works with
- Audi A6 e-tron, Q6 e-tron, A5, Q5 and A6
- Connections
- Playback needs no phone pairing or tethering
- Available
- Today for Free and Premium listeners, subject to vehicle and market availability
To begin, install Spotify or update the existing app through the car’s Audi Application Store, then open it on the vehicle display. Sign in by scanning the displayed QR code with a smartphone or personal device, or enter the displayed code on Spotify’s pairing website. After that initial sign-in, Spotify says playback is ready when the car starts.
The Q7 and Q9 are scheduled to receive the app when those upcoming SUVs reach market. Access depends on the vehicle and market, and an Audi connect package may be necessary.
Screens change with the drive
During driving, the center screen limits video and lyrics, with simpler navigation and an emphasis on voice operation. Drivers can manage playback using Audi’s native voice system with “Hey Audi,” or speak to Spotify’s DJ to influence the next selections.
Once parked, including during EV charging, the main screen supports full-screen viewing of music videos and video podcasts, alongside lyrics that update in real time. Where supported, a separate front-passenger screen lets passengers browse, read lyrics and watch video. Passengers can also scan a QR code on the screen to enter an in-car Spotify Jam, contributing songs from their phones to a shared queue.
Audi is the first automaker offering this native app, and Spotify says it plans to bring the experience to additional automotive partners globally over the coming year.