Netflix is undoubtedly one of the most popular streaming platforms. But, it has now silently removed an important feature which has left many users frustrated. Here, we are talking about the feature that allows one to control content on one’s TV screen using a smartphone.
This feature that is ‘casting’ was very popular among regular travellers who would want to cast the content on their phones on TVs in hotels and watch their favourite Netflix shows.
The streaming giant however claims that the feature was not very popular hence it decided to remove it. This would also help in making the app a little ‘lighter’. The popular online forum initially reported this change and wrote, “Netflix no longer supports casting shows from a mobile device to most TVs and TV-streaming devices.” It further added, “You’ll need to use the remote that came with your TV or TV-streaming device to navigate Netflix.”
If you visit the official help page of Netflix then you will find the information by Netflix that reads, “If you’re looking to cast from your mobile device to your TV or a device connected to your TV, check the list of compatible devices below. If it isn’t listed, you’ll need to use a physical remote to navigate the Netflix app.”
Netflix further says, “If you’re using a compatible device, follow the instructions below to troubleshoot the issue. If you can see and tap the Cast icon, but your Chromecast or TV doesn’t appear, follow these steps instead.”
If further adds, “If the “Cast” icon is missing from the Netflix app on your mobile device, it’s usually because the device you’re trying to cast to is not connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your mobile device. If you’re on an ad-supported experience, you won’t be able to use your TV as a display for Netflix content playing on your mobile device (casting or mirroring).”
Users are a frustrated following this step of the streaming giant, to further increase the woes Netflix has raised the subscription prices to quite an extent yet has been able to surpass 300 million subscribers in 2025. This change has triggered a strong backlash from longtime subscribers, say reports.
However, from the point of view of the Company, the removal of this feature may help reduce password sharing and force users to subscribe to more expensive plans. With the frustration of the customers on the rise and var, it will be interesting to see if Netflix rolls back this move.
