Netflix to cut support for 16 smart TVs next month – is YOURS on the list?
Netflix has announced that its app will no longer run on select smart TVs starting next month, requiring viewers to add a streaming device to stay connected.
The world’s largest streaming service said viewers will no longer be able to access the streaming service on a selection of outdated Sony TVs from 2014.
Users who don’t want to replace their devices to maintain access will need to invest between $20 and $50 for an Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, or Chromecast with Google TV.
“As of July 24, 2024, the Netflix app will no longer be supported on some 2014 BRAVIA televisions,” Sony announced, adding, “You can continue to use the Netflix app until July 23, 2024.”
Netflix will remove its app from 16 Sony smart TVs starting July 24, 2024. Consumers can still access the app by purchasing a new TV or investing in a streaming device like Roku or Amazon Fire Stick.
TVs that are no longer compatible with the Netflix app will receive a message stating “Netflix is no longer available on this device.”
The announcement includes the KDL-60W610B and KDL-60W630B models, along with 14 others.
This isn’t the first time Netflix has retired its app on certain older TVs, with the company removing other Sony devices from 2012 to 2013 in December.
At the time, Sony claimed the change was due to ‘technical limitations’ and affected around 34 TVs in total.
The change will also affect consumers in Europe and Britain, who will also lose access to the app on 42 Sony TVs.
Netflix’s decision to remove its app from some smart TVs comes a year after the service cracked down on password sharing as it tried to compete with other streaming services including Max, Disney+ and Hulu.