Netflix's Recent Move: A Streaming Shift
Netflix has made a bold move, and it's got everyone talking! The popular streaming giant has decided to discontinue the feature that allowed users to cast their shows and movies from phones to TVs. This change affects most subscribers, leaving them with the option to use the official Netflix smart TV app or connect devices directly for a seamless TV streaming experience.
The streaming company has remained tight-lipped about the reasons behind this decision. However, their Help Center page hints at encouraging users to utilize the built-in Netflix apps for TVs and devices. A Netflix representative has yet to provide an official statement.
But here's where it gets controversial... Several sources report that casting still works on older versions of the Netflix app, and some devices, like older Chromecast models, might still be compatible. Our tests showed that an LG TV, previously available for casting, no longer offers this option.
The exact timing of this policy change remains unclear. The earliest report seems to be a Reddit post from November 14th, shedding light on the casting ban.
According to the Netflix Help Center, only subscribers not on the ad-supported basic plan can access this feature for older devices like Chromecasts. The help page specifically mentions the devices that still support casting: 3rd generation or older Chromecast, Google Nest Hub Smart Display, certain Vizio TVs, and certain Compal TVs.
And this is the part most people miss... If you're considering screen mirroring as a workaround, think again. The Netflix help page explicitly states that users with ad-supported plans won't have access to casting or mirroring, even for older devices. We tried mirroring an iPhone 17 Pro running iOS 26.1 to a TCL TV, but encountered an "E100" error with a Netflix Standard plan (no ads).
Netflix's decision to end casting comes at a time when movie, TV, and music streaming services are increasing their prices, prompting some viewers to cancel their subscriptions to save costs.
What do you think about Netflix's move? Is it a step towards a better streaming experience, or a frustrating limitation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
