Watching your favourite shows on Netflix is about to get a little trickier.
The US-based streaming platform has discontinued the ability to cast shows from your device onto the big screen. Netflix was one of the first apps to support Google’s Cast functionality, shortly after the first Chromecast launched back in 2013. But now, without fanfare, the streamer has retired support.
Netflix now requires you to access your account directly from the app available on your Smart TV using a physical remote, removing the convenience of mobile playback control. So, if you’re looking to binge the new season of Stranger Things or watch the new Frankenstein movie, you’ll need to navigate around the Netflix interface using the remote that comes with your TV or streaming device.
That might sound like a small tweak — and if you’re at home, it’s unlikely to be a big deal — but if you check-in to an Airbnb or hotel room and want to quickly throw the TV show or film that you’re watching onto the telly or streaming equipment plugged into the back of the flatscreen, it’s going to take more work (and risk you leaving your account logged in when you check out!)
This feature removal impacts specific streaming hardware, such as Google TV Streamer and Chromecast equipped with Google TV, both of which include remote controls.
For many users, they now no longer have a way to access their Netflix subscription. One Reddit user wrote, “Chromecasting is the main way that I watch streaming. It gives me all of the control to use my phone as a remote control and searching for stuff is so much easier. And I’m not sure WHY the change was made. It seems like security is not enhanced here. Even Amazon Prime still supports Chromecast (at least for now).”
Netflix’s latest casting feature removal poses limits on the mobile app
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PEXELS
However, not every Netflix subscriber will run into this red tape. If you have an earlier Chromecast model, you’re in luck. Older versions lack physical remotes, so you can still cast your shows with Netflix.
Netflix will also still allow you to cast shows if you’re subscribed to their premium tier package.
The streaming platform currently offers three different subscription tiers:
| Plan | Monthly price | Key features / limits |
|---|---|---|
| Standard with adverts | £ 5.99/month | Full HD streaming, up to 2 devices at once, shows/movies include ads. |
| Standard (ad‑free) | £12.99/month | Ad‑free, Full HD, up to 2 devices simultaneously. |
| Premium | £18.99/month | 4K / UHD + HDR (on supported devices), up to 4 devices streaming at once. |
You’ll need to be subscribed to Netflix’s premium subscription tier to be able to continue casting shows from your mobile
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PEXELS
The different subscription options trace back to three years ago, when Netflix introduced the ad-supported tier, which never included Google Cast functionality.
Now, both Standard with Ads and Standard (ad-free) subscribers relying on classic Chromecast devices are forced to upgrade if they want to maintain casting access.
Notably, Netflix’s support pages provide no explanation for this latest change, leaving users without clarity on why the previously convenient feature was removed.
This move also sets Netflix apart from competitors, as services like Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube continue to support casting. So far, no other platform has announced similar restrictions.