Netflix is giving its members a new way to interact with the screen. The streaming giant has officially launched real-time voting, a feature that allows viewers to influence the outcome of live specials as they happen.
The new tool makes its debut today with the premiere of Star Search at 6pm PT/9pm ET. While Netflix has used thumbs-up ratings for over a decade, this is the first time the company is letting millions of people vote together in a live global broadcast to decide the fate of contestants. Star Search will feature Jelly Roll, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Chrissy Teigen, and Anthony Anderson.
If you are tuning in for a live event that supports the feature, your remote or phone becomes your ballot. Netflix has kept the process simple to ensure it does not distract from the show. For those watching on a TV or a streaming device, you can use your remote to select your choice directly on the screen. If you prefer the mobile app, you simply tap the screen to cast your vote. It is important to note that voting is not available on web browsers, so you will need your TV or phone handy before the show starts.
Each profile on an account gets exactly one vote per session. Netflix says the goal is to make viewers feel like they are part of the production, whether they are watching alone or hosting a watch party with friends and family.
The feature was not built overnight. Netflix first tested a rough version of the voting system during Dinner Time Live with David Chang. The feedback from those tests showed that members appreciated a seamless way to participate without having to leave the app or use a second device.
Star Search is the first major title to use the finished tech, but it likely will not be the last. Netflix plans to roll out real-time voting for a variety of upcoming live events, specials, and competitions throughout 2026.
Are you going to jump into the live voting tonight on Star Search on Netflix?
Want to see more of our stories on Google?
P.S. Want to keep this site truly independent? Support us by buying us a beer, treating us to a coffee, or shopping through Amazon here. Links in this post are affiliate links, so we earn a tiny commission at no charge to you. Thanks for supporting independent Canadian media!
