Netflix removed a 'little-used' feature, and discontent among users is growing.

Netflix implemented a change on its platform that altered the way many users managed their TV playback. The update came to light after a publication by Android Authority and sparked complaints on social media, where several people criticized the decision.

According to the company, as confirmed to WIRED, the change is due to the fact that the feature in question had very low usage among subscribers. Nevertheless, the measure caused discontent among those who considered it a practical tool for their daily routines.

What changed on Netflix

From now on, Netflix will no longer support the ability to start and control playback on a TV from a mobile device. This means that if someone is watching content on their phone, they will no longer be able to send it to the TV to continue watching there or use the phone to control playback.

The platform confirmed that the focus will now be on the TV's native app. This requires users to manage all actions (pause, volume, subtitles, or rewinding) directly with the TV remote control.

Why Netflix decided to remove this feature

The company explained that the decision was made because the usage level was "extremely low". It also indicated that, from time to time, it removes little-used tools to focus resources on features that add more value to the overall experience.

Netflix emphasized that the change is not related to its policy against account sharing and that it doesn't aim to complicate access for those who rely on their phones to use the service.

In which cases will it continue to work

The feature will remain operational only on older devices, such as certain pre-2020 models of Google Chromecast that do not rely on a remote control. However, these devices are hardly manufactured anymore and most modern TVs come with the Netflix app pre-installed.

For ad-supported plans, it will not be available at all. For the more expensive plans, it will only work if the TV meets these old and uncommon requirements.