Netflix has just caused a stir in the global user community when it quietly disabled the ability tocast/mirror content from the phone to a series of Smart TVs.
The change has occurred in recent weeks, with many users reporting that they had detected the issued button missing since last month without any warnings.
According to Android Authority, an update on Netflix's support page once stated: "Net Netflix no longer supports broadcasting programs from mobile devices to most TVs and streaming devices".
However, this information was later withdrawn by Netflix and replaced with a new list of supports, significantly limiting the number of compatible devices.
Currently, Netflix only allows transmission to some devices including: 3rd generation Chromecast and earlier (no remote control), Google Nest Hub smart display, some Vizio TV models and Compal TV.
Most Smart TVs with the original Netflix app will force users to operate directly using the accompanying remote control.
A Netflix customer service representative is said to have confirmed to users on Reddit that: "If the device has remote control, you cannot transmit content".
This means that most smart TVs, Android TV boxes or new Google TVs will no longer support casting as before.
Not only that, Netflix has also removed AirPlay support on iOS as well as the casting feature from the Google TV application.
Users of packages with advertisements or devices that do not share the Wi-Fi network with their TVs will not be able to use a large screen as a device to display the content being played on the phone.
Despite the major impact on the usage habits of millions of people, Netflix only gave a brief reason that the move was aimed at improving customer experience, but did not explain in detail.
Currently, the user community continues to question the real intention behind the decision to limit this very popular feature.
