Netflix is copying BBC’s iPlayer with an update that millions might not like. Earlier this year, the BBC put the brakes on PC owners downloading content onto their devcies to watch when offline. Now Netflix is doing exactly the same. As spotted by the team at Windows Latest, a change in Netflix‘s terms reveals that those using Windows PCs will no longer get the option to load up films and box sets to then be viewed on the move.
The change is all due to the Windows app getting a big update which includes support for watching live events, better streaming quality and compatibility for those wanting to watch via the newer advert-supported plans. Sadly it also features that block on downloads.
Confirming the change, Netflix said in a post on its website, “A new Netflix app for Windows is coming soon, which includes support for watching live events, increased streaming quality, compatibility with ad-supported plans, and more. While downloads will no longer be supported, you can continue to watch TV shows and movies offline on a supported mobile device.”
So what devices are affected?
It seems all PCs running Windows 10 and Windows 11 will be blocked once the new Netflix app is released. It’s unclear why Netflix is shutting this feature down on Windows but it could simply be that not enough people use it.
That was the reason the BBC gave when it closed the downloads function for users back in March.
“We have made the difficult decision to close the BBC iPlayer Downloads application for PC and Mac, due to the low number of people using it and the cost required to keep it going,” the BBC explained.
