Netflix ends casting from mobile devices for users of newer TVs

Netflix is ending support for the ability to cast from mobile devices to many TVs. According to a help page spotted by Android Authority, “Netflix no longer supports casting shows from a mobile device to most TVs and TV-streaming devices. You’ll need to use the remote that came with your TV or TV-streaming device to navigate Netflix.”

The company indicated that casting should still work with older Chromecast devices and TVs that support Google Cast, but only for users who are on an ad-free plan. However, if you have a Google TV Streamer, Chromecast with Google TV or a television that runs on Android TV, casting may no longer be an option in the Netflix app.

It appears that Netflix has been quietly winding down support for casting in recent weeks, as some users reported in mid-November that it was no longer an option for them. I have an ad-free Netflix plan and the latest version of the iOS app on my phone. While I can still tap the cast button, the app doesn’t list any devices for me to cast to, including my Android TV-powered television.

This is a disappointing move from Netflix as many folks find it easier to search for something they want to watch on the mobile app and then cast that to their TV. If, for instance, you dozed off while watching something, it’s also much faster to get back to the point you last remember seeing by scrolling through the episode or film on a mobile device than with a remote on a TV app.

Engadget has asked Netflix why it’s winding down support for casting on mobile devices. The company previously axed AirPlay support in 2019 because of “technical limitations.”