If you were a little disappointed when Netflix rolled out their new Android application and your Android smartphone wasn’t one of the 5 supported devices, you might be pleased to know a member named ‘ften’ over at the Xda-developers forum has developed a method to now load the app onto any Android smartphone without the need to root it.
How to Install Netflix on Unsupported Android Devices
Currently, this modified application has the highest success rate with Android 2.3 or newer, and will now allow you to download all the movies and shows you can handle. Simply install one of the Netflix apps linked in the xda thread. This workaround is particularly useful for those who have older devices or those not officially supported by Netflix but still want to enjoy streaming their favorite content.
To get started, you’ll need to check the “Unknown Sources” box in Settings > Applications. This setting allows you to install applications from sources other than the Google Play Store. Once this is enabled, you can proceed to download the modified Netflix application files. The netflix-devicecheck-disabled.apk
file should work on many devices, but if that version of the app crashes, the netflix-mod-2.apk
version might get it working.
Additional Tips and Considerations
While this method is a great way to get Netflix running on unsupported devices, there are a few additional tips and considerations to keep in mind:
- Compatibility: Although the modified app works on many devices, there is no guarantee it will work on all. Some users might experience issues depending on their specific device model and Android version.
- Updates: Since this is a modified version of the Netflix app, it may not receive updates directly from the Google Play Store. You might need to check the Xda-developers forum periodically for any new versions or updates to the app.
- Security: Always be cautious when downloading and installing APK files from third-party sources. Ensure that you are downloading from a reputable source to avoid any potential security risks.
- Performance: Streaming performance may vary based on your device’s hardware capabilities. Older devices might struggle with higher resolution streams, so you might need to adjust the streaming quality settings within the app.
This workaround opens up a world of entertainment for users who were previously unable to access Netflix on their Android devices. It’s a testament to the resourcefulness of the Android community and the dedication of developers who strive to make popular applications accessible to a broader audience.
For more detailed instructions and to download the necessary files, visit the Xda-developers forum thread. Happy streaming!
Source: Lifehacker
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