Netflix users warned streaming service is dropping much-needed feature
Being able to download films and series' on Netflix is a major perk of subscribing to the streaming platform, especially when preparing for a long journey or flight.
But now, it seems the streamer could be scrapping the option for those on its cheaper, ad-supported plan - which is expected to be rolled out at some point next year.
According to Bloomberg, a code in the app could indicate that Netflix isn't planning on letting users with the cheaper plan download content to watch offline.
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It was reportedly discovered by developer Steve Moser, who shared that the codes - such as 'downloads available on all plans except Netflix with ads' - indicate that the feature may be removed.
In another new move for the platform, the code is also said to suggest that users of the cheaper plan might not be able to skip ads or have access to playback controls while the ads are running.
"We are still in the early days of deciding how to launch a lower priced, ad supported option and no decisions have been made. So this is all just speculation at this point," a Netflix spokesperson has said.
LADbible has also contacted Netflix for comment.
While it's unclear how much the new plan will cost, it's expected to be released at some point next year.
The decision to introduce a cheaper plan was revealed in July, with Netflix CEO Reed Hastings explaining that he wanted to give consumers 'choice'.
Prior to this, Netflix has been totally ad free - users simply click on the show or movie they want to watch and don't have to endure advert after advert.
"I am a bigger fan of consumer choice," he said.
"And allowing consumers who would like to have a lower price, and are advertising-tolerant, get what they want, makes a lot of sense."
The company is also planning on cracking down on account sharing on the app, with Chengyi Long, director of product innovation, confirming the move in a blog post.
“We’ve always made it easy for people who live together to share their Netflix account, with features like separate profiles and multiple streams in our Standard and Premium plans,” she said.
“While these have been hugely popular, they have also created some confusion about when and how Netflix can be shared. As a result, accounts are being shared between households — impacting our ability to invest in great new TV and films for our members."
Long said the new system will give users a chance to share their Netflix details 'easily and securely', while 'also paying a bit more'.
Looks like the days of logging into our ex's Netflix will soon be behind us.
Topics: Netflix, TV and Film
Lucy Devine