Last month, Netflix surprised many by dropping a popular feature: the ability to cast videos from mobile apps to various smart TVs and streaming devices. Now, this casting is only supported on older Chromecast adapters, certain Nest Hub displays, and a few select Vizio and Compal TVs.
This shift marks a significant change. Netflix previously allowed casting to a wide range of devices using Google’s casting technology. This included several models of Android TVs from brands like Sony and Sharp.
Netflix also provided a “2nd Screen” casting feature on many devices, including gaming consoles like PlayStation and popular smart TVs from LG and Samsung. If your TV had the Netflix app, it likely supported casting.
The roots of this technology trace back about 15 years. Back in 2011, Netflix engineers began exploring how to integrate mobile devices with TVs. They collaborated with YouTube and TV manufacturers like Sony and Samsung. This effort led to the development of the DIAL protocol, which laid the groundwork for casting.
In 2012, Netflix was the first major service to include casting in its app. It allowed PlayStation 3 users to play videos directly from their phones. Shortly thereafter, Google released the Chromecast, inspired by ideas from DIAL.
Casting enjoyed immense popularity for quite some time. Google sold over 100 million Chromecast devices, and some companies even designed TVs specifically for casting, although one such attempt failed because many users still preferred physical remotes.
However, as smart TVs improved with native apps, the need for casting diminished. A streaming service provider noted that casting, once essential, is now used by just 10% of its Android users.
For Netflix, it’s unlikely we’ll see a change regarding casting. While the company didn’t comment on this decision, it’s probable that they opted to focus on new features, such as cloud gaming and interactive options. Integrating casting into these features might have proved too complicated.
Interestingly, while Netflix steps back from casting, others are embracing it. Apple recently added Google Cast support to its Apple TV app on Android, and major manufacturers like Samsung and LG are incorporating Google’s casting technology into their TVs.
Google is still committed to enhancing the casting experience. Neha Dixit, a Google product manager, stated, “Google Cast continues to be a key experience that we’re invested in.” More developments in casting are on the horizon.
Nonetheless, competition is brewing with the Connectivity Standards Alliance, which is working on the Matter Casting protocol. This approach aims to make casting more open, allowing various devices and services to utilize casting without needing agreements with Google.
Even though support for Matter Casting is minimal at the moment, the potential for growth is there. The technology could expand beyond screens, especially with upcoming support for audio casting.
In conclusion, while Netflix has stepped back from casting, the technology continues to evolve and attract new supporters. It will be interesting to see how the landscape changes in the coming months.
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