No more Netflix on these TVs: How you can keep streaming without built-in services
Nothing lasts forever, especially when it comes to tech. Years ago, it might have been decades before you considered replacing a household appliance or entertainment system. Nowadays, it doesn’t take long before your smartphone or TV is obsolete or on the way out.
Recently, Netflix announced its signature application would no longer be compatible with older Samsung smart TVs and some Roku streaming boxes. The company’s target date has arrived and hundreds of TV sets no longer have access to the platform. Click or tap to see why Netflix is cutting support on legacy products.
Owners of older devices might find themselves disappointed at having to buy new equipment. Luckily, there are options that won’t break the bank. Now the only question is if your current smart TV or streaming box makes the cut.
Netflix cuts support for Samsung and Roku devices. What’s next?
Netflix announced it would cut support for older streaming devices that couldn’t handle the platform’s new autoplay feature. Any devices dropped from support lost access to the Netflix app on Dec. 1, 2019.
This list initially included smart TVs from Samsung ranging from the 2010-2011 model years, as well as the following Roku devices:
- Roku 2000C
- Roku 2050X
- Roku 2100X
- Roku HD
- Roku XR
- Roku SD
- Roku XD
According to reports from Cord Cutters News, this list also included a range of Vizio smart TVs. Individual users were notified their TV would no longer be supported via alerts in the Netflix app, but reports suggest this mostly affected Vizio smart TVs that were four years old or older.
As mentioned above, Netflix claims the drop in support is related to older devices being unable to handle the platform’s autoplay and recommendation engine. This feature is critical in finding new audiences for shows and has been a major part of Netflix’s business model for some time.
Is my TV or streaming device affected by the drop in support?
None of the aforementioned Roku boxes are compatible with Netflix. As for whether or not your Vizio TV is losing support, you’ll need to check the manufacturing date to know for sure.
If you are unable to locate the original box or manual, Netflix has alerted users in-app about whether they need to purchase a new device to continue streaming.
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Streaming video is still a relatively young technology, but most of us can no longer imagine sticking a disc into a DVD player. Yes, some of us still enjoy our Redbox rentals, and Blu-ray still offers some of the best imaging available.