Netflix is beta testing a new TV interface, marking the end of the sidebar. But some older TVs and streaming devices will no longer support the streaming app going forward.
- Users of older Sony and Apple TV devices will no longer be able to access Netflix.
- My Netflix tab, already on mobile devices, coming to the TV version of the app.
Changes are coming to the way Netflix is navigated on TVs, as the streaming company expands its library to include games and live sports.
The first major redesign in the Netflix TV app since 2018 will see the sidebar disappear altogether. Going forward, viewers will be able to access the top menu either by scrolling to the top or pressing the back button on the remote.
Additionally, Netflix will also allow viewers to hover over a TV show or movie to bring up more information and a preview. This will replace the current system where title cards appear in the middle of the screen, but information about the show is shown at the top of the screen.
At present, the new interface is being trialled among a small number of users. According to Netflix, the changes will roll out to everyone in the “coming months”.
However, the changes mean that some devices will no longer be able to support Netflix. From the end of July, Netflix will cease to be available on 2nd and 3rd generation Apple TV devices. These will be between 12 and 14 years old, not to be confused with the 2nd and 3rd generation 4K boxes, which aren’t affected.
A week earlier, on 24th July, Netflix will cease working on 2014 Sony Bravia Televisions.
By: Marc Thornham