Beware: Netflix Will Soon Stop Working on These Phones

Beware: Netflix Will Soon Stop Working on These Phones

The next update to the streaming app will exclude several models from this popular brand.

In the age of smartphones, it has become common to watch movies and series on our mobile devices by downloading apps from major services such as Netflix, Prime Video, or Disney Plus. With the option to download content, it has become even easier to enjoy entertainment while traveling or in areas with poor coverage.

Unfortunately, software updates are leaving some smartphone models behind, rendering certain apps unusable. This will soon happen to Netflix subscribers who own one of the following iPhone models.

Rumor has it that the streaming platform plans to stop supporting devices that are still running iOS 16 and iPadOS 16. The change is expected to happen soon, likely next week.

Here is the list of devices that will no longer be able to use the Netflix app:

  • iPhone 8
  • iPhone 8 Plus
  • iPhone X
  • iPad Pro (1st generation)
  • iPad (5th generation)

Most of these devices date back to 2017. While seven years may seem like a reasonable lifespan for a smartphone or tablet, many of these models are refurbished, and users may expect to enjoy them for longer.

The impact of this update is not only about losing access to the Netflix app. As devices age and apps stop supporting older operating systems, users could find themselves locked out of other critical services or facing security vulnerabilities. For many, this marks a turning point where they may need to consider upgrading their devices to stay up-to-date with essential apps and services. This move also highlights a broader trend in tech, where companies are increasingly phasing out support for older devices to optimize performance and integrate new features. While this helps ensure that newer models run more efficiently, it creates a dilemma for users who want to hold on to their older devices for environmental reasons, to save money, or simply because their device still works perfectly for their needs.

There is a workaround to keep using Netflix on your device even after support ends. For now, you can still access Netflix through its website using a browser like Chrome or Safari. However, this is only a temporary solution, as it's unclear whether Netflix will eventually restrict browser-based streaming as well.

This change comes in the context of the launch of the new version of iOS, which introduces several new AI-driven features.