Netflix has announced a major update for its Apple TV app (tvOS) and is simultaneously testing two new features on iPhones. The changes are intended to improve the user experience, simplify navigation, and make finding new content more efficient. The new features will be rolled out worldwide in the coming weeks and months, with some initially available only as a test.
If you use Netflix on Apple devices, you're about to see noticeable changes. The app on Apple TV, in particular, is getting a complete redesign. Netflix is also testing new ways to present content on iPhone—including a TikTok-like format. Here's a detailed look at all the important new features.
New Netflix experience on Apple TV (tvOS)
Netflix describes the update to its tvOS app as a new TV experience. The goal is to make it easier for you to choose a movie or series and to adapt the design to modern user habits. Four specific changes have been made. announced:
- Better overview when choosing titles: Information about films and series is more prominent. You'll now immediately see information like "Emmy Award winner" or "Number 1 series." These details should help you decide more quickly what to watch next.
- Shortcuts are easier to access: Functions like "Search" and "My List" were previously somewhat hidden on the left side. Now you'll find them directly at the top of the screen, where they're more visible and quicker to access—similar to Apple's own TV app.
- Recommendations are getting more accurate: The Netflix app's homepage is now even more tailored to your mood and interests. Recommendations adapt in real time based on what you recently watched or what you searched for.
- Revised design: The app has a more modern and clearer layout. The new interface appears cleaner and more premium, yet retains a familiar look. The design is specifically tailored to tvOS and is intended to make using it more enjoyable on the big screen.
New features in the iOS app
Netflix is also testing two new features on the iPhone that are intended to improve mobile browsing and searching. Both are not yet available to all users.
- Vertical Discovery Feed: Netflix is testing a vertical feed reminiscent of TikTok. You scroll through short clips from series and movies, getting first impressions and making it easier to decide what to watch. The format is entertaining and, above all, is intended to make discovering new content easier.
- Search with generative AI: A new AI-based search function is also being tested. Instead of just entering specific titles, you'll soon be able to enter vague descriptions or preferences, and the AI will suggest suitable content. The feature will start as an opt-in beta and will be tested gradually.
Netflix rolls out new features gradually
Netflix is significantly modernizing its user experience – both on Apple TV and iPhone. The new tvOS app offers clearer information, better navigation, and a fresh design. On iOS, it's experimenting with new forms of content discovery. Not all features are available to everyone yet, but the rollout will begin worldwide in the coming weeks. If you're a regular Netflix user, it's worth keeping the apps up to date to benefit from the new features. (Image: Shutterstock / JarTee)
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