After launching their iPad application back in April, Netflix has now brought their product out as an app for the iPhone and iPod Touch. This move marks another significant step in Netflix’s strategy to expand its reach and make its streaming service more accessible to users on various devices.
The Netflix app is a free download from the iTunes App Store and allows you to rent movies directly to your device. This convenience means that users can now enjoy their favorite movies and TV shows on the go, without needing to be tethered to a computer or a television.
Features and Limitations
The Netflix iPhone and iPod software has limited functionality compared to using Netflix streaming over a Web browser. Most specifically, users cannot edit queues or browse DVD rental selections, and are only allowed to view instantly streaming media. This limitation means that while you can watch content, you cannot manage your Netflix account fully from the app. For instance, if you want to add a new movie to your queue or change the order of your DVD rentals, you will need to do so from a computer.
Also, Netflix’s selection of streaming media is considerably less than its library of DVDs, but this will probably expand over the coming months. As streaming becomes more popular and Netflix continues to secure more streaming rights, users can expect the available content to grow. Currently, the streaming library includes a mix of popular movies, TV shows, and Netflix originals, but it does not yet match the extensive DVD collection.
Future Prospects and User Experience
Despite these limitations, the Netflix app for iPhone and iPod Touch offers a significant advantage in terms of portability and convenience. Users can watch their favorite shows while commuting, during lunch breaks, or while traveling. The app’s interface is user-friendly, making it easy to search for and start watching content quickly. The streaming quality adjusts based on your internet connection, ensuring a smooth viewing experience even on slower networks.
Looking ahead, Netflix is likely to continue improving the app’s functionality. Future updates may include the ability to manage queues and browse the full DVD library, making the app even more versatile. Additionally, as Netflix continues to invest in original content and secure streaming rights for more movies and TV shows, the app’s content library will become increasingly robust.
Moreover, the introduction of the Netflix app on iPhone and iPod Touch is part of a broader trend of media consumption shifting towards mobile devices. As smartphones and tablets become more powerful and ubiquitous, users are increasingly turning to these devices for entertainment. Netflix’s move to support these platforms ensures that it remains relevant and accessible in this evolving landscape.
In conclusion, while the Netflix app for iPhone and iPod Touch currently has some limitations, it represents a significant step forward in making streaming media more accessible. As Netflix continues to expand its streaming library and improve the app’s functionality, users can look forward to an even better viewing experience in the future.
Via Loop
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