Netflix recently announced that, from 1st December 2019, its media-streaming service will no longer support various older devices.
This caused a lot of confusion and even a small amount of uproar from those affected. Netflix posted its own article in an attempt to clear things up. Of the devices affected by this change, this includes some old Samsung TV models, as well as Vizio TVs, and first-generation Roku boxes.
So, if you Netflix-binge through one of these devices, unfortunately, your bingeing will be coming to an end!
What Should Users Do?
For most users, this doesn’t mean anything. For anyone watching on a newer smart TV, using an Amazon Firestick, Google Chrome, or just watching Netflix through the online browser, there won’t be any changes at all.
But for those watching from an older device, like an old smart TV, Netflix is ending support for these devices. This basically means that you’ll have to buy a new device to stream Netflix from. Luckily for you, however, there are various options out there which will allow you to stream from elsewhere. The number one being the Amazon Firestick 4K.
Support is Ending for Old Vizio TVs, Samsung TVs and Roku Players
For those who own an old Roku player, Samsung Smart TV, or a Vizio TV, you’ll need to be on the hunt for a new method of streaming. Since Netflix is ending support for these, accessing the platform and any of its shows or movies won’t be possible. And for anyone that might think it’s a hoax or marketing stunt, Samsung themselves have added a notice to their site.
Having to get your hands on a new streaming device isn’t the most convenient of things. But with Firesticks and Chromecasts and other options too, it shouldn’t prove to be too difficult. Just as well, it might be good for a few, as it forces them to modernize their setup. This way, they will gain access to all the new streaming platforms, such as Disney+, Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and many more.
If you’re wondering if your device will still be supported, as you don’t know if it’s in the list of devices to be ‘cut out’ of the service, try launching Netflix on your current device. If you get a pop-up message informing you that service will be cut off, then it is. If you don’t get a message, then you’re good to go!
Why is Netflix Ending Support?
It comes as a surprise to many Netflix users that this act doesn’t seem to be some sort of scheme in order to make more profits. It’s actually an issue to do with compatibility. Some of the older streaming boxes and devices don’t have the technology in them to keep up.
With things like autoplay and episode rollover, some of the older Samsung and Roku products lag or crash when this happens. Rather than change Netflix for all of its users, the company understandingly thought that it was best to maintain their current interface. Unfortunately, this will force some to upgrade.
Will This Affect My TV?
Samsung has a list of all the compatible and incompatible device. This will help you easily work out if your TV is supported or not after December 1st. As for those who usually stream with Roku devices, the following list displays all the products that will need to be upgraded or replaced in order to continue watching Netflix after this date:
- Roku 2000C
- Roku 2050X
- Roku 2100X
- Roku HD
- Roku XR
- Roku SD
- Roku XD
So, although Netflix is ending support for a wide range of devices, and no doubt cutting some of its audience off from content they may well love, it really is for the better. Their interface is smoother and more interactive than it ever has been.
As for finding an alternative, we’d recommend Google’s Chromecast or Amazon’s Firestick. Both are small, convenient, and aren’t too expensive either. And if your budget allows, consider getting a Firestick 4K. You won’t regret it.
What are your thoughts on Netflix ending support for its devices? Drop a comment below to let us know!
