Netflix has quietly removed casting support from its mobile app for most modern TVs and streaming devices, forcing users to navigate directly on their TV apps using physical remotes. The change, effective since November 10, affects Chromecast with Google TV, Google TV sets, Android TV devices, and other remote-equipped streamers, confirmed by Android Authority and widespread Reddit reports.
Affected Devices & Exceptions
- No Longer Supported: Chromecast with Google TV, Google TV Streamer, Android TV/Google TV sets with remotes
- Still Works: Original Chromecast (1st-3rd gen), Chromecast Ultra (Cast-only devices)
- Plan Restriction: Ad-supported tier cannot cast even to supported devices
- Required: Standard/Premium Netflix plans ($15.49+/mo)
Netflix’s Official Explanation
Customer support states: “If the device has its own remote, you can’t cast.” Netflix claims the change improves user experience by directing users to native TV apps where they control interface, playback, and recommendations. Support page “Can’t find ‘Cast’ button” confirms policy shift.
Why Netflix Killed Phone Casting
- UI Control: Native apps ensure consistent Top 10 rows, trailers, profiles
- Ad Revenue: Precise ad placement/measurement on big screens
- Concurrency: Enforces household limits more reliably
- Support: Simplifies troubleshooting (bandwidth, HDMI, updates)
User Impact & Frustrations
Reddit r/Chromecast rants highlight workflow disruption:
- Phone browsing → TV casting eliminated
- Multi-profile switching harder on TV remotes
- Search easier on phones than TV interfaces
- No advance warning or rollback option
“Chromecast is the main way I stream. Phone as remote, easier searching. Why change?” — Reddit user techie1980
Current Workarounds (Temporary)
- Don’t Update Netflix App: Older versions retain casting (The Verge verified)
- Use Original Chromecast: 1st-3rd gen + Ultra still work (ad-free plans)
- My List Workaround: Add to phone queue → play from TV app
- Other Services: YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+ casting unaffected
Device Compatibility Matrix
| Device Type | Casting Status | Plan Required |
|---|---|---|
| Chromecast (1-3rd gen) | ✅ Works | Standard/Premium |
| Chromecast Ultra | ✅ Works | Standard/Premium |
| Chromecast w/ Google TV | ❌ Blocked | – |
| Google TV Streamer | ❌ Blocked | – |
| Android TV/Google TV | ❌ Blocked | – |
| Ad-supported Netflix | ❌ No casting | All devices |
Netflix Support Page Details
Official troubleshooting for remaining casting users:
- Ensure Standard/Premium plan (not ad-supported)
- Compatible Chromecast generations only
- Same Wi-Fi network for phone/TV
- Restart app, router, Chromecast
- Update mobile app (ironic for most users)
Industry Trend: Native Apps Over Casting
- Most streaming hours occur on TVs (Nielsen data)
- Native apps enable precise ad targeting/measurement
- Reduces support complexity (single troubleshooting path)
- YouTube, Prime Video maintain casting but prioritize TV apps
Long-Term Implications
Phone-to-TV casting convenience sacrificed for TV app control. Users adapt to remote navigation; original Chromecasts become collector’s items. Netflix future-proofs against smart TV evolution where phones become secondary screens.
What Users Should Do Now
- Keep Old App: Avoid Netflix updates to retain casting
- Upgrade Plan: Ad-supported users need Standard ($15.49)
- Buy Original Chromecast: Used 3rd gen ~$20 on eBay
- Use Alternatives: YouTube/Prime casting unaffected
Netflix prioritizes TV app experience over mobile casting convenience. Original Chromecast owners retain functionality; modern device users adapt to remote navigation as primary Netflix interface.
