Netflix quietly removes casting option from mobile app
While the company has not offered specifics, industry analysts believe the change may be related to licensing agreements, app stability improvements, or preparation for a new version of Netflix’s device-to-TV streaming system.
Netflix has begun removing the built-in casting option from its mobile app, limiting the ability for some users to cast content from their phones directly to smart TVs.
Reports of the missing feature began circulating this week, with users noticing that the familiar “cast” icon, which previously appeared at the top of the app, no longer shows up on certain Android and iOS devices.
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Netflix has not yet issued a full public statement explaining the change, but the company confirmed in a brief support note that the update affects selected regions and device types.
According to Netflix, the removal is part of “an ongoing internal review of device compatibility and streaming pathways.”
While the company has not offered specifics, industry analysts believe the change may be related to licensing agreements, app stability improvements, or preparation for a new version of Netflix’s device-to-TV streaming system.
Across social platforms, many subscribers shared that they woke up to find the casting option gone after an overnight update.
“I thought my phone was glitching, I had to confirm with my friend,” one user posted.
“I restarted the app and even reinstalled it, but the cast icon just wasn’t there,” another user said.
Others reported that casting still works through alternative methods, such as: built-in casting options on smart TVs, Google Home or Apple AirPlay device menus and HDMI cables or set-top boxes
However, Netflix has not completely removed the feature for everyone (Yet). Early data suggests the rollout is partial, meaning some users still have the feature depending on app version, device, or region.
New installations may show the update earlier than older versions.
Experts note that Netflix often tests interface changes on small groups before a global release.
Until Netflix clarifies whether the removal is temporary or permanent, users can still watch on TVs using: Native Netflix apps on smart TVs, streaming sticks (Chromecast, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV), AirPlay from Apple devices (where supported), Google Home or system-level casting on Android and HDMI cables from laptops or tablets
For now, the company maintains that the change is part of routine app adjustments and may vary based on “region and device capability.”
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