Netflix to Disable Downloads for Offline Viewing on Windows App

It has been reported that Netflix plans to introduce additional features to its Windows application, while also discontinuing the option to download shows and movies.

Artem Russakovskii, a user, recently posted a screenshot of a notification indicating that Netflix is in the process of updating its Windows application and potentially removing the option to download content for offline viewing.

The notification announces the availability of “a fresh Windows application experience”which will grant access to live events and plans with ads. It further explains that while downloads will no longer be supported, users can still watch TV shows and movies offline on a supported mobile device.

Like Russakovskii, other users have also received this alert. In fact, one Reddit user shared a similar alert on the platform. Additionally, another user named Trevor62271128 posted a different alert from the Netflix app, which does not mention the disabling of downloads by the company. However, there has been no official confirmation from the streaming giant at this time.

What!??? @netflix is updating its Windows desktop app and “making it better”by removing the ability to download offline. 🤬😤😠This is how I watch Netflix on the plane. This is a terrible change. pic.twitter.com/8XsiQqNCM7

— Artem Russakovskii (@ArtemR) May 25, 2024

It is not certain which alert is correct. Despite checking the Netflix Windows app in various regions, we did not come across any alerts. Trevor62271128 states that they do not utilize downloads. However, the alert indicates that downloads will continue to be accessible on mobile devices.

Netflix users have expressed their dissatisfaction with the inability to download content. One Reddit user commented, “Great, just another way for me to not have ownership over what I watch.”Another user remarked, “Essentially, Netflix is no longer an app, but rather a web app.”

In February, analysts predicted that Netflix would increase prices on its streaming plans in 2024 in order to boost its revenue and earnings growth. The company had previously eliminated its Basic plan for new subscribers in 2023 and then raised prices by $2-3 for both its Basic and Premium plans in October.