Trying to cast Netflix from your phone? You might have an issue.
In a significant shift for users of Netflix, the streaming giant has announced that it no longer supports casting content from mobile devices to most TVs and streaming devices. This change, first reported by Android Authority and confirmed on Netflix’s help page, means that while users with older Google Chromecast devices or TVs compatible with Google Cast can still cast content, those with newer Chromecast models or TVs without Google Cast will need to revert to using their TV remotes to navigate Netflix. This decision has left many users scrambling to understand the implications for their viewing habits, especially as casting has become a popular way to enjoy streaming content on larger screens.
For those still able to cast, the experience remains largely unchanged. Users with older devices can continue to stream Netflix directly from their smartphones, provided they ensure that both their phone and Chromecast are connected to the same WiFi network and that permissions for local network access are enabled. However, the exact cut-off point for what constitutes an “older” Chromecast or compatible TV remains unclear, prompting inquiries to Netflix for further clarification. Additionally, Netflix has stipulated that subscribers on ad-supported plans will not have the option to cast or mirror content from mobile devices at all, raising questions about the viewing experience for those users. As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, Netflix’s latest changes highlight the ongoing challenges and adjustments that come with technology and user preferences in the realm of digital entertainment.
This development also underscores the importance of understanding the devices we use to access streaming services. As technology advances, older devices may not be supported, leading to potential disruptions in user experience. For Netflix users, particularly those who rely on casting to enjoy their favorite shows and movies, this change may necessitate a reevaluation of their current devices and possibly an upgrade to ensure continued access to the full range of Netflix features. As the company navigates the complexities of streaming technology and user expectations, viewers are left to adapt to these changes, ensuring they stay connected to their favorite content in the way that best suits their viewing preferences.
Trying to cast
Netflix
to your TV from your phone? If you don’t have an older Chromecast, you might have an issue.
First reported by Android Authority
and confirmed in
a help page on Netflix’s website
, the company said, “Netflix no longer supports casting shows from a mobile device to most TVs and TV-streaming devices.”
Notably, the streamer stated you can still cast Netflix from your phone if you’re using an older Google Chromecast device or a TV that works with Google Cast. But if you’re using a newer Chromecast or TV without Google Cast, you’ll “need to use the remote that came with your TV or TV-streaming device to navigate Netflix.”
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At the time of writing, I was able to throw Netflix from my iPhone to my Chromecast without issue, but it’s a pretty damn old Chromecast. If you’re in the same boat and the “Cast” button is not appearing on your phone, you might need to
check all devices are connected to the same WiFi
and your phone is set to allow Netflix to find devices on local networks.
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It’s not clear where the “older” cut-off lies for Chromecasts or TV models that will still work with Netflix casting, so we’ve reached out to Netflix for further information to clarify this.
Notably, the streamer also stated that if you’re on an ad-supported Netflix plan, “you won’t be able to use your TV as a display for Netflix content playing on your mobile device (casting or mirroring)” at all. We’ve also asked Netflix to clarify whether Standard and Premium subscribers will still be able to do so.
