Automotive

Spotify launches Car Thing, a voice-controlled music player for cars

Wherever you go, music shall follow

Published

April 14, 2021

Shivam Vahia

Spotify is a music streaming service, and the company is always categorized as a software major. Things are gradually changing as it has unveiled a new dedicated music player called Car Thing and is literally supposed to be used in a car.

It’s a small gadget that features a display, mic, physical buttons, and a huge knob in a nutshell. Spotify has clearly mentioned that it has no ambitions to be a hardware company and focus on one thing — becoming the world’s number one audio platform.

All you need to do is fit the player near an AC vent, plug it into a USB port for power, and connect your phone to it. The player connects to your phone, which in turn connects to the car via aux, USB, or Bluetooth. So, why wouldn’t you just directly play Spotify from your phone?

Spotify says the Car Thing is about creating a truly frictionless audio experience for users, irrespective of where they are. The player shows thousands of curated playlists like Daily Drive or Songs to Sing in the Car. Thanks to a dedicated player in front of you, playing a song, podcast, or playlist is much more seamless and instant.

The player also lets you decide how you want to use it — voice commands, touch, or physical buttons. There’s a massive knob on the front that gives a retro vibe in a world dominated by touchscreens. The “Hey Spotify” command can summon the device, and there are four mics to ensure the assistant isn’t caught off-guard.

It’s also got four physical buttons that can be preset to play your favorite album, artist, playlist, or podcast. There’s no actual speaker within the device, and it completely relies on your car’s audio system.

Car Thing availability

Car Thing is currently rolling out in a controlled manner, available in the US on an invite-only basis. For now, Spotify is sending it out for free, and users just have to pay the shipping charges. It requires a paid Spotify Premium subscription plan and a phone with WiFi or mobile data reception.

Automotive

Honda launches CONNECT app: Safety and security at one’s fingertips

Enhancing the ownership experience

Published

November 29, 2023

GadgetMatch

Honda Cars Philippines has officially launched Honda CONNECT. It’s an app that automates customer service and offers Honda car owners a full package of safety, security, and convenience.

The app is available as a free three-year subscription for owners of the all-new Honda CR-V. Owners will get a telematics-based (TCU) version of Honda CONNECT that connects the phone of the owner with their car.

Some features include Automatic Collision Detection, Security Alarm, Remote Diagnostic Support, Speed Alert, Geofencing, Vehicle Dashboard Information, and Remote Vehicle Control.

The new service also supports Find My Car to make it easier for drivers to locate their parked vehicle.

For owners of other Honda models, the app is also available as a non-TCU platform, allowing owners to make emergency calls for 24/7 roadside assistance and browse location search for places of interest such as gas stations, ATMs, convenience stores, and more.

The Honda CONNECT app is downloadable from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei App Gallery.

Automotive

Everyday hero: HATASU HERO ebike now official

Multi-ride, easy go

Published

November 14, 2023

GadgetMatch

HATASU ebike has launched the HATASU HERO, the company’s latest three-wheeler model and sixth product offering overall.

The latest addition to the company’s growing lineup of e-bikes is a multi-use, easy-go e-bike that can cater to daily riding needs such as household use, service, business, and more.

All-in-one hero

Designed to help users save their respective days, the HATASU HERO has a 250-kilogram capacity to support up to three adults or have someone fetch a bunch of kids from nearby schools.

It has top speeds of up to 20 to 25 kph and can cover 60 to 70 kilometers in one full charge.

Stylish design

The HATASU HERO comes in virtually an all-black design, sporting a splash guard in front, along with eagle-eye headlights that resemble a superhero mask.

The three-wheeler comes with a patented leather roof and back cover similar to a superhero cape, so users won’t have to worry about purchasing attachable roofs as add-ons

The e-bike also has an under seat and back compartment for riders to be able to load more goods such as groceries.

Inside is a high-powered 650W differential motor and an upgraded controller for better acceleration.

Accompanying the setup outside are dual and reverse horns and a motorcycle suspension fork, as well as a stainless front fender and large front wheel.

Price, availability

The HATASU HERO is priced at PhP 64,990 and is available in HATASU ebike dealers and online via Lazada.

Customers who purchase from November 15 will also receive a limited gift box worth PhP 1,790 and five raffle entries to HATASU’s Holiwheels Raffle Promo.

Automotive

Honda Holiday Deals: Choose your own promo package

For the BR-V, Brio, City, and Civic

Published

November 14, 2023

GadgetMatch

Honda Cars Philippines is offering customers several promo packages on participating models as part of its Honda’s Holiday Deals promotion.

Customers interested in availing of the All-New BR-V, New Brio, New City, and New Civic may choose their preferred promo – each coming with freebies or discounts:

Package 1: Additional PhP 5,000 discount
Package 2: Promo discount plus one year PMS
Package 3: Promo discount plus PhP 7,000 accessory voucher

Downpayments for the BR-V, City, and Civic start at PhP 55,000.

Honda CR-V: Special insurance package

Meanwhile, customers may also be interested in getting a special insurance package offered for a purchase of any variant of the newly-launched All-New CR-V.

As part of the package, customers may enjoy benefits such as a waived PhP 2,000 deductible on first claim or an upgraded personal accident coverage, depending on the insurance partner (Standard Insurance, MAA, or AXA Philippines).

The latest iteration of Honda’s midsize SUV comes with e:HEV full hybrid system, Honda CONNECT, and Honda SENSING.

Flexible financing options

Honda is also offering low cash-out rates of just 15% to 20% downpayment and low monthly amortization bundles for up to 60-month payment terms.

There are several banks participating in this offer but customers will have to be approved first to push through with their car purchases.

Downpayments for the BR-V, City, and Brio start at just PhP 10,000 while all-in cash-outs for the City Hatchback, HR-V, Civic, and CR-V range from PhP 60,000 to PhP 142,000.

Honda Genuine Accessories package

Lastly, Honda car owners may enjoy up to a 90% discount on selected Honda Genuine Accessories, such as spoilers, trays, tailgate garnishes, covers, and more.