It cost $100, but I can't use it anymore.

https://lemmy.ml/post/4047208

It cost $100, but I can't use it anymore. - Lemmy

And? Their site clearly states that a premium subscription is required.
And was that the case since it first went on sale?

Yes. They said so in their announcement of the device’s general availability.

…spotify.com/…/car-thing-from-spotify-is-now-offi…

Car Thing From Spotify Is Now Officially Available in the U.S. — Spotify

Listeners, start your engines: Car Thing is officially here.  Back in April 2021, we announced our exploration of a smart player that could seamlessly fill your car with a world of music, news, entertainment, talk, and more. Then in October, we unveiled our limited release of Car Thing to Spotify Premium users. Now, after these... Read more »

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