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Netflix Apple TV App: User Frustration Mounts
2 Apr
Summary
- Netflix replaced the tvOS video player with a custom one.
- New player omits features like 10-second skips and auto-subtitles.
- Users report glitches and a perceived drop in 4K quality.

Netflix has recently altered the functionality of its application on Apple TV devices, notably replacing the integrated tvOS video player. This decision has resulted in a departure from the standard, consistent user interface expected by Apple TV users.
The new custom player introduced by Netflix omits several features previously available, causing significant user discontent. These include the familiar 10-second skip function, which now pauses playback and requires an additional step to navigate. Auto-subtitling upon rewinding or muting, detailed video/audio format information, and quick end-time checks are also reportedly missing.
Beyond interface changes, some users are experiencing technical issues. Reports indicate a perceived decrease in 4K video quality and intermittent pixelation problems that necessitate app restarts. These issues, coupled with the removal of convenient features, have led to considerable frustration among subscribers.
This update follows a recent price increase for Netflix subscriptions in the US, adding to user concerns about the service's value. The cumulative effect of these changes has prompted some users to consider unsubscribing from Netflix.