Netflix Casting Removal Frustrates Users, Forces Switch to TV Remote Control
Netflix has quietly removed the ability to cast from its mobile apps. This change impacts most modern TVs and streaming devices. Users can no longer use the Cast button on phones or tablets. The shift forces viewers to use their TV’s remote and native app instead.
The company confirmed the change in an updated support page. According to Reuters, the move was made to improve the customer experience. No advance warning was given to subscribers, sparking confusion online.
Legacy Device Support Shrinks, Ad-Subscribers Locked Out
The casting feature now has very limited support. It only works on older Chromecast models without remotes. Some TVs with built-in Google Cast may also still function.
However, there is a major new restriction. Even on these older devices, casting is blocked for ad-supported plan subscribers. Only users on more expensive ad-free tiers can still cast. This creates a new divide between Netflix’s pricing plans.
User reports first surfaced on forums like Reddit. They noticed the Cast button disappearing in mid-November. Netflix’s support now directs everyone to use their TV remote. This is a significant change in how people interact with the service.
Broader Shift in Streaming Strategy Sparks User Backlash
This decision mirrors a similar move from 2019. Back then, Netflix removed AirPlay support from iPhones and iPads. The company said it couldn’t distinguish between Apple TVs and other AirPlay devices. Now, a broader casting removal suggests a strategic pullback.
The impact is immediate for millions of users. Many relied on casting for its convenience and simplicity. The change disrupts established viewing habits overnight. It also pushes users toward the ecosystem of their TV’s operating system.
Industry analysts see this as a push for platform control. By forcing use of the TV app, Netflix gains more consistent performance data. It also avoids issues with third-party casting protocols. For the user, it means one less way to watch their favorite shows.
The Netflix casting removal marks a decisive end to an era of cross-device fluidity, fundamentally altering how subscribers access content on their largest screens.
A quick knowledge drop for you
Q1: Can I still cast Netflix from my phone at all?
In most cases, no. The Cast button has been removed from the Netflix mobile app for streaming to devices with remotes, like newer Chromecasts or smart TVs. The only exception is for older, remote-less Chromecast devices, and only for ad-free subscribers.
Q2: Why did Netflix remove the casting feature?
Netflix stated the decision was made to improve the overall customer experience. Industry observers suggest it helps Netflix ensure consistent app performance and gather more direct viewing data from TV platforms.
Q3: Does this affect all Netflix subscribers?
Yes, but differently. All users on ad-supported plans are completely locked out from casting, even on older supported devices. Only premium, ad-free subscribers might retain the function on a small subset of legacy hardware.
Q4: What should I do if I can’t cast anymore?
You should use the remote control that came with your TV or streaming device. Open the Netflix app directly on that hardware. This is now the primary method Netflix intends for viewing on televisions.
Q5: Is this related to the earlier AirPlay removal?
Yes, it appears to be part of the same long-term strategy. Netflix removed AirPlay support in 2019 for similar reasons, indicating a pattern of retreating from device-agnostic streaming protocols it does not fully control.
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