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Streaming Slowdown: Apps Dragging Your Devices Down
14 Jun
Summary
- Streaming apps now use custom engines, slowing devices.
- Netflix and Disney+ lead the change, impacting responsiveness.
- Custom engines save costs but reduce user experience features.
Users of streaming devices like Apple TV 4K and Fire TV Stick 4K Max have recently experienced a noticeable slowdown. This performance degradation is not due to aging hardware but rather changes implemented by app developers, primarily this spring. Major streaming services, including Netflix and Disney+, have transitioned from native platform players to custom video engines.
These custom engines, deployed across various operating systems, are less responsive and bypass built-in OS features. Consequently, functions like seamless scrubbing and automatic subtitle activation are impaired. Netflix, in particular, is cited as a major offender, removing features and refusing integration with platforms like Apple TV's universal 'Up Next' row.
