On November 11, ANI Technologies, the parent company of ride-hailing company Ola, said it would shut down its in-car infotainment service Ola Play from the Indian market from November 15, 2022.

“Because ANI Technologies will close its ride-hailing division known as OLA Play from the Indian market on November 15, 2022, appropriate steps have been taken to remove this division from the market,” the company said in a statement.

Recall that in July 2022, Ola laid off more than 400-500 employees to cut costs and said the focus was shifting to electric vehicles amid delays in listing plans and a challenging financing environment.

In early June 2022, Ola decided to shut down its active commercial business, Ola Dash, and said it would recast the automotive business to focus more on strengthening its electric division. In the same month, the company also closed its used-car sales business, which was less than a year old.

The company said that the move was part of its strategy to accelerate its electrification journey and build its core mobility and financial services capabilities.

In today’s announcement, Ola also mentioned that the company restricts any third party’s use, modification or transfer of Ola Play devices in any form, especially during ride-hailing services.

Launched in 2016, Ola Play is a personalised tablet/device connected to the car. Riders can use maps, listen to music and watch videos. This feature is only available for sedans.