Last week, Netflix removed AirPlay support from its iOS app citing “technical limitations.” The move comes just a few months before Apple gets around to releasing Apple TV+ and takes on Netflix with its own series of original shows. Given the popularity of Netflix and the amount of stress it puts on user experience, this was an odd move from the company.

The streaming giant has now gone ahead and explained as to what the “technical limitations” are due to which it is unable to offer AirPlay support on its iOS app. In a statement to The Verge, Netflix says with Apple rolling out AirPlay support to more TVs and devices, it has pulled the ability for Netflix to differentiate between the playback device — an Apple TV or a third-party TV.

We want to make sure our members have a great Netflix experience on any device they use. With AirPlay support rolling out to third-party devices, there isn’t a way for us to distinguish between devices (what is an Apple TV vs. what isn’t) or certify these experiences. Therefore, we have decided to discontinue Netflix AirPlay support to ensure our standard of quality for viewing is being met. Members can continue to access Netflix on the built-in app across Apple TV and other devices.

By not knowing if the playback device is certified by Netflix or not, the company will not be able to deliver a user experience that it strives for. Netflix usually works with TV OEMs to certify their products and ensure they offer the best Netflix experience possible.

With Netflix now not being able to know if you are playing back content from it on your Apple TV or a third-party TV, it has decided its better to entirely pull support for AirPlay rather than live without the data. It is definitely an odd move from Netflix especially since it puts a great deal of focus on user experience. Most smart TVs do come with a Netflix app pre-installed and the Netflix app is available across all major streaming sticks. However, that’s no excuse for Netflix to drop AirPlay support from its iOS app.

We Want To Hear From You

Do you think Netflix is right in dropping AirPlay support from its iOS app? How do you prefer to watch Netflix on your TV?

[Via The Verge]

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