Netflix Disables Casting From Smartphones to TVs or Streaming Devices

Netflix has quietly killed the ability to stream and cast content from your smartphone to TVs and streaming devices.

As discovered on an updated support page (via Android Authority), Netflix confirms that it “no longer supports casting shows from a mobile device to most TVs and TV-streaming devices. The change comes as a surprise, as the company hasn’t previously expressed a desire to cut support.

The support page continues, clarifying that Netflix subscribers are urged to use “he remote that came with your TV or TV-streaming device to navigate Netflix” rather than utilize device casting from your smartphone.

Earlier this year, it was reported that Netflix Standard members saw limited casting options with the Cast button disappearing in the Netflix mobile app. Now, it appears as though it’s a wide discontinuity, with most modern TVs and streaming devices losing access.

There is one main exception, however. Netflix will continue to support casting on older Chromecast devices and TVs with Google Cast support. In the event that the Cast icon is missing, Netflix suggests connecting to the same Wi-Fi network as the Chromecast or TV.

This all being said, the limited support is only available to those on the ad-free tiers, which start with the $18.99/month Standard plan. Premium members subscribed to the $23.99/month plan with a supported Chromecast or TV will be able to continue casting as well for the time being.

Although Netflix has confirmed the news of the support change, the company has not issued a reason behind the sudden change. Similarly, in 2019, Netflix discontinued the support of AirPlay.