Netflix Kills Casting From Phones, Ending a Long-Used Feature for Millions

Netflix Quietly Removes Phone Casting in Major Update

December 1, 2025: Netflix has officially removed the ability for most users to cast content from their phones to their TVs, marking one of the biggest user-experience changes in the platform’s history. The update rolled out quietly, leaving many subscribers surprised when the familiar casting icon disappeared from their mobile app.

Only Limited Devices Still Support Casting

According to Netflix’s revised support guidelines, casting is no longer available on most modern TVs and streaming devices. Only select older Chromecast units and certain built-in Google Cast TVs continue to support the feature — and only for users subscribed to Netflix’s ad-free plan.
Subscribers on the ad-supported tier now lose the casting feature entirely, regardless of device compatibility.

Why Netflix Made the Change

Netflix has shifted its focus toward encouraging subscribers to use the app directly on their smart TVs or streaming boxes. Instead of browsing and controlling playback from a phone, the company wants viewers to rely on the remote control and native TV app for navigation, selection, and playback.
This strategic change hints at Netflix pushing toward a more controlled and consistent viewing experience across devices.

Frustration Among Viewers Who Relied on Casting

For many households, phone-to-TV casting was a simple, convenient way to watch Netflix. Families and friend groups often used casting so multiple people could select shows quickly. The shift has created immediate frustration among users who are now forced to rely solely on their TV interfaces — which are often slower or less intuitive than the mobile app.

What Users Can Do Moving Forward

For those impacted by the feature removal, Netflix now recommends:

Opening the Netflix app directly on the smart TV or streaming device.

Using the remote control for browsing and playback.

Using older Chromecast devices that still support casting (if subscribed to the ad-free tier).

Connecting a laptop via HDMI if casting is essential.

While these workarounds exist, none replicate the simplicity of tapping the cast icon on a phone.

A Major Shift in How Netflix Wants You to Stream

This update signals a new direction for Netflix — one that places the TV’s built-in interface at the center of the viewing experience. Whether the company plans to bring back casting in the future remains unclear, but for now, the change marks a permanent shift in how millions of people will navigate their favorite shows and movies.