Netflix Ends Chromecast Support, Millions Lose Mobile Casting Feature

Netflix Drops Chromecast Casting: What’s Changed for Viewers?

Millions of Netflix subscribers face a new viewing limitation. The streaming giant has quietly removed support for casting from mobile devices to most TVs. This change affects users of Google TV Streamer and Chromecast with Google TV devices. It significantly alters how people watch their favorite shows.

The platform made the change with little warning. It forces most users to navigate Netflix directly on their TV with a remote. For many, this ends a convenient and preferred way to stream content. According to reports from FlatpanelsHD and GB News, the shift is already causing user frustration.

Netflix Chromecast casting

Who is Impacted by the Netflix Casting Change?

The restriction targets any streaming device with its own physical remote. This includes Google TV Streamer and Chromecast with Google TV models. If you own one, you can no longer start a show from your phone or tablet. You must use the remote to control the Netflix app on the TV itself.

One major exception remains for now. Subscribers on Netflix’s Premium tier, costing £18.99 per month, can still cast. Owners of older, classic Chromecast sticks without remotes also retain the feature. However, Google discontinued those older models in 2022. This leaves a shrinking window for mobile casting.

The official reason from Netflix is vague. The company states it is to “improve the user experience.” This explanation has been met with skepticism online. Many users find the TV app interface slower and less intuitive than using their phone.

The Push Toward Ads and Premium Subscriptions

Industry analysts point to advertising as a likely driver. Netflix has heavily promoted its cheaper, ad-supported plan. Casting from a mobile device can complicate how ads are delivered and tracked. Ensuring ads play correctly is simpler when the app runs directly on the TV.

This theory is supported by earlier restrictions. In 2025, Netflix first limited casting to its ad-free plans only. The latest move completely removes the feature for its two Standard subscription tiers. It effectively makes casting a premium-only perk, incentivizing upgrades.

The change also highlights a competitive divergence. Major rivals like Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video still fully support Chromecast casting. This could influence subscriber loyalty. Users who value casting flexibility may reconsider which service provides the best value.

Info at your fingertips

Can I still cast Netflix from my phone?

Yes, but only under specific conditions. You must be a Netflix Premium subscriber. Alternatively, you must be using an older Chromecast model that does not have a physical remote.

Which Netflix plans lost casting support?

Both Standard plans lost support. This includes the ad-supported (£5.99/month) and ad-free Standard (£12.99/month) tiers. Only the Premium plan (£18.99/month) currently allows casting.

Why did Netflix make this change?

Netflix has not given a clear public reason. Experts suggest it may relate to managing its advertising platform. Ensuring ads play correctly is easier on the TV app than through a cast connection.

Do other streamers support Chromecast?

Yes. Competitors like Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube continue to support casting from mobile devices. They have not announced similar restrictions.

What should affected users do?

Users have a few options. They can upgrade to a Netflix Premium subscription. They could also switch to using the TV remote or explore other streaming services that still support casting.

Is this change permanent?

All indications suggest it is a permanent policy shift. Netflix has updated its official support pages to reflect the new limitations without mentioning a trial period or reversal.