Netflix, the pioneers of streaming services, has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of its users. However, in the process, some features that were once beloved have been discontinued. Here’s a look at five such features that many users, including myself, wish were still available.
The “Play Something” Button
One of the most convenient features that Netflix introduced was the “Play Something” button, also known as the “Surprise Me” feature. Launched in April 2021, this button was designed to alleviate the decision fatigue that comes with browsing through thousands of titles. With a single click, Netflix would start playing a movie or TV show tailored to your viewing preferences[1][2].
This feature was particularly useful for those nights when you couldn’t decide what to watch. It could suggest new content, continue a show you were already watching, or even play something similar to what you had recently enjoyed. Unfortunately, due to low usage, Netflix removed this feature in January 2023, leaving many users to navigate the overwhelming content catalog manually once again.
Interactive Shows
Interactive shows were one of Netflix’s most innovative features, allowing viewers to make choices that affected the storyline. Titles like “Black Mirror: Bandersnatch” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs the Reverend” brought a new level of engagement to the traditional passive viewing model. However, Netflix has delisted all but four of its interactive shows, and the future of this feature remains uncertain[2].
Interactive shows not only made watching more engaging but also provided a unique experience that set Netflix apart from other streaming services. The ability to influence the storyline made the viewing experience more personal and fun, and many users miss this interactive element.
Sleep Timers
Sleep timers were a feature that allowed users to set a timer for how long they wanted Netflix to keep playing, automatically stopping the video after the set time. This feature was particularly helpful for those who like to fall asleep while watching their favorite shows or movies. Although it was only available as a test feature on Android devices, it proved to be quite useful. However, this feature is no longer available, leaving users to rely on external solutions or manually stop the playback[2].
Netflix Friends
Before its removal in the early 2010s, Netflix had a social feature called “Friends.” This feature allowed you to connect with other Netflix users, see what they were watching, and even recommend titles with personal notes. It added a communal aspect to the platform, making it easier to discover new content based on friends’ preferences. Despite its potential, the feature was discontinued due to low usage, but with the current crackdown on password sharing, it might be an ideal time to reconsider this social element[2].
User Reviews
User reviews were a crucial part of the Netflix experience, allowing users to leave star ratings and write detailed reviews for movies and TV shows. These reviews were essential for helping users decide whether to watch a particular title, providing insights into the plot, pacing, and overall quality. However, Netflix replaced this feature with a simpler thumbs-up/thumbs-down system, which lacks the nuance and context that user reviews provided.
While the thumbs-up/thumbs-down system helps improve recommendations, it does not offer the same level of detail as written reviews. Users can no longer warn others about shows that might not be worth watching or provide detailed feedback on what they liked or disliked about a title. This change has made the decision-making process less informed and less engaging[2].
As Netflix continues to evolve, it’s clear that some features, although well-intentioned, didn’t make the cut. However, bringing back these beloved features could significantly enhance the user experience, making Netflix more personal, social, and convenient for its subscribers. Here’s hoping that Netflix will reconsider and revive some of these missing gems in the future.