Roman GłogulskiIn the upcoming Vision Pro preorders, Apple seems to be emphasizing that the device is the perfect way to watch movies and TV shows. While this may be true in many aspects, there is one serious problem: Netflix.
Netflix announced today that it does not plan to release an app for Vision Pro devices. Instead, users will have to use the web interface to stream their favorite shows.
Netflix compares this situation to using a Mac, but there are several reasons why it won’t be an ideal experience for users. First, the mobile apps on iPad and iPhone support offline viewing of downloaded content. This is particularly useful during flights, which can be considered one of the best use cases for Vision Pro.
Unfortunately, Netflix does not support offline downloading on web browsers. It is also unclear what resolution will be achievable – the maximum streaming resolution on Netflix depends on the browser and often reaches only 720p. That wouldn’t look good on a virtual screen with a 100-foot diagonal.
It must be acknowledged that Netflix streams in 4K quality on the Safari browser for macOS, but it is unknown if the same quality will be available on the Safari browser for Vision Pro.
Launching the app will also be more complicated, and the interface will not be as user-friendly as a native app.
There are two ways in which Netflix could directly support visionOS. The company could develop a full-fledged mixed reality application, similar to what Disney+ has done with unique features for visionOS. Alternatively, it could at least optimize its iPad app to work well on visionOS.
The latter, although not entirely trivial, is relatively easy for a company like Netflix with strong developer resources, so it is hard not to see it as deliberate ignorance.
This is not the first time Netflix has refused to collaborate with Apple’s new initiatives. Netflix is the most notable service that is not available in the useful Apple TV app on Apple TV and iPhone, which aggregates viewing activity and offers recommendations that lead to individual streaming apps.
Netflix and Apple are currently competing in the streaming space. Both companies are seeking awards for their original films with limited theatrical releases and aggressive advertising campaigns. This could be a motivation, but it is difficult to say what Netflix’s management really thinks.
Most other major streaming services, such as Disney+, Peacock, Max, and Amazon Prime Video, will have functioning apps on Vision Pro after its release in early February, making Netflix a clear exception.
Although not a dealbreaker for everyone, the absence of Netflix undermines the value proposition of Vision Pro, which is priced at $3,499. But if the experience of watching one of the most popular streaming services on a high-performance TV is not satisfactory, then this offer loses some of its appeal.
FAQ
1. Will Netflix be available on Vision Pro devices?
Currently, there are no plans to release a Netflix app for Vision Pro devices. Users will have to use the web interface to stream the service.
2. Do Netflix mobile apps on iPad and iPhone support offline viewing?
Yes, Netflix mobile apps on iPad and iPhone support offline viewing of downloaded movies. This is particularly useful during flights.
3. Does Netflix support offline downloading on web browsers?
Currently, Netflix does not support offline downloading on web browsers.
4. What is the maximum streaming resolution on Netflix web browsers?
The maximum streaming resolution on Netflix depends on the browser and often reaches only 720p.
5. Does Netflix stream in 4K on Safari browsers for macOS?
Yes, Netflix streams in 4K on Safari browsers for macOS, but it is unknown if the same quality will be available on the Safari browser for Vision Pro.
Definitions:
– Vision Pro: A device for watching movies and TV shows.
– Netflix: A streaming service offering movies and TV shows.
– streaming: Related to transmitting data in real-time.
Links to related domains:
– Netflix
– Apple
