Netflix has just announced a series of major updates that promise to change the way users experience content on the platform.
This information was introduced by Technology Director (CTO) Elizabeth Stone at the TechCrunch Disrupt conference, emphasizing the goal of turning Netflix from a passive streaming service into an interactive and diverse entertainment platform.
New features include a second screen, real-time voting, redesigned child videos, party games, and vertical video sources.
In particular, real-time interaction allows viewers to participate in direct voting on programs, such as Dinner Time with David Chang or the Star Search restart next year.
Users can impact the synchronized display results and experience, even when watching the program after live broadcast.
Netflix also plans to expand the live feedback feature for video podcasts, connecting to Spotify's podcast service.
In addition, Netflix will launch living room party games this year, with interactive games that allow many people to play together, using their phones as controls.
The first five titles include: LEGO® Party!, Boggle Party, Pictionary: Game Night, Tetris Time Warp and Party Crashers.
These games are aimed at creating a shared entertainment experience, encouraging social interaction instead of watching alone.
The updates also include an upgraded version of the kid's mode, designed to be safer, more intuitive and more child-friendly; vertical video source and faster content exploration capability.
Netflix is gradually building a diverse ecosystem, combining videos, games and live experiences, targeting users who want to both entertain and interact.
With these changes, Netflix aims to retain audiences for longer, while opening up new opportunities for family and group experiences.
