Netflix has finally introduced mobile data settings for its apps, finally giving users control over streaming quality.
The new settings, first revealed to TrustedReviews back in February, will let users adjust the bitrate of TV shows and movies to help limit their data usage.
It’s a long-requested feature that should stop users tipping over their mobile data allowances due to Netflix binging while on the move.
“As we have launched Netflix around the world, we have seen big differences in how much people are streaming on smartphones and what kinds of mobile data plans they have,” says Eddy Wu, Director of Product Innovation at Netflix.
“Today, we are offering a new tool to help you better control how much data you use when streaming on cellular networks,” Wu continues.
There are now six options in the new Cellular Data Usage section of the Netflix app:
- Automatic – Default data & quality settings
- Off – Watch on Wi-Fi only
- Low – Watch about 4 hours per GB
- Medium – Watch about 2 hours per GB
- High – Watch about 1 hour per GB
- Unlimited – Warning: Not suggest without an unlimited plan
Netflix app’s new settings
Switching to a low bitrate means you’re much less likely to be charged for going over your data allowance, although you’ll have to put up with lower quality video.
What would be better for consumers would be for network providers to increase data allowances to compensate for the growing demand for heavier file downloads.
Related: Netflix vs Amazon Video
“Our goal is to give you more control and greater choice in managing your data usage whether you’re on an unlimited mobile plan or one that’s more restrictive,” explains Wu.
The new update is available to download right now for both the iOS and Android versions of the Netflix app.
Trusted Explains: All you need to know about TVs
Do you prefer Netflix or Amazon Video? Tell us why in the comments below.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
