Here is the reason behind Netflix's controversial layout change.
Over the past couple of days, users of the streaming platform have opened the app on their TV sets and found that things are looking a little bit different to how they were before.
Now, Netflix isn't a stranger to making changes that anger its loyal users around the world, with changes such as subscription tiers, the introduction of ads, and a crackdown on password sharing, testing subscribers' patience over the years.
Add in the fact that the streamer will often add and remove popular titles at random, and you can see why people get so upset about their TV habits being messed with.
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However, the change-averse among us should better prepare themselves, as your Netflix home screen is now—or soon will look—very different.
What is the new Netflix update?
For those who have already received the updated layout on their TV app, you may have noticed that shortcuts such as 'Shows', 'Movies', and 'Games' have now shifted from the side to the top of the screen.
Meanwhile, the tiles which display titles currently available to watch are now bigger.
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The new layout also comes with the addition of a 'My Netflix' tab, which allows you to access all of your previously watched shows and movies.
Take a look at the new format below and see if you can notice much of a difference:
The new update began rolling out on 19 May and will become the default for everyone worldwide within the next few weeks.
What have been the reactions to the new Netflix layout?
Unfortunately for Netflix, it appears that a good majority of its users are not on board with the new change.
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In fact, they've been nothing short of hysterical.
On a Reddit thread discussing the topic, one person moaned: "The new layout is clunky and just harder to use. Why fix what wasn't broken?"
"I just opened a chat with Netflix and complained. I asked them to add customisation. I also said this is one more reason to cancel," revealed a second subscriber, while a third added: "Its TERRIBLE! If ive [sic] scrolled a bit down, now i have to scroll up like 30 times to get to the search bar instead of an easy one left click to get there."
Meanwhile, social media reactions have included people claiming they've 'cancelled my subscription based on this redesign only' and comments such as 'just awful' and 'TOO BIG'.
Why has Netflix changed its layout?
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Netflix has explained that the updated 'TV experience' allowed them to provide users with simplified navigation and more responsive recommendations.
Meanwhile, The Hollywood Reporter revealed that previous beta testing between the two formats revealed that users actually preferred using the new layout.
A spokesperson explained to the outlet that while they understand the change will upset some, it will ultimately be more beneficial overall.
The new format also accommodates the platform's move into broadcasting live TV and allows for real-time suggestions to be made.
"With bigger boxes, we're showing more information up front to help you make a better decision," the spokesperson said. "Instead of seeing 20 or 30 titles at a time, now you're seeing information at a glance."
Brenna Cooper