Key Changes in the New Netflix App
On Thursday, July 25, Netflix unveiled its revamped app for Windows on the Microsoft Store, but initial reactions suggest that users may not be pleased with the changes. The update, which was first hinted at in May, marked the retirement of the native app by June. Following a brief testing phase in July, the new version has now gone live.
The most significant alteration is that the Netflix app is no longer a standalone application. Instead, it has transitioned into a basic web app powered by Microsoft Edge, effectively directing users to netflix.com. This shift has left many users feeling frustrated, as the previous app offered a more integrated experience.
Another notable change is the elimination of the downloads feature, which allowed users to save content for offline viewing—a particularly useful option for those traveling or in areas with limited internet access. The removal of this capability represents a considerable setback for laptop users who valued the convenience it provided.
Critics have not held back in their assessments. Windows Latest described the new app as “awful and pointless,” emphasizing that accessing Netflix through any web browser is just as straightforward. In a statement, Netflix support acknowledged the changes, noting that while the new version will offer access to live events and compatibility with ad-supported plans, it will not support downloads. Users can still enjoy offline viewing on supported mobile devices, but the desktop experience has been notably diminished.
Further reading: The best VPN for streaming Netflix
This article was originally published in our sister publication PC för Alla and has been translated and localized from Swedish.
