Netflix has upgraded its offline downloads feature to help ensure the next episode is always waiting for you, regardless of your connectivity status.
After you’ve finished watching a downloaded episode, the new Smart Downloads tool will automatically download the next one to your device when you connect to Wi-Fi, the company explains.
You won’t have to worry about the episodes taking up too much storage space on your phone or tablet, because the previously-watched episode will be deleted upon completion. This also negates the need to go into the app and delete all of those viewed episodes in order to free up space for more.
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Initially, the feature is rolling out to the Netflix app on Android phones and tablets, so iOS users will have to wait until later this year.
In a blog post on Tuesday the company writes: “We know how annoying it can be to go through all your apps and delete files you no longer need; we also understand that when it comes to Netflix, the faster you can get to the next episode you want to watch, the better. Whether it is smart downloading or viewing a mobile preview, we realize the best part of Netflix is connecting with the stories you will love in an easier and more fun way.”
Naturally, it’ll only automatically download the episodes when you connect to Wi-Fi, so you won’t be burning through that precious data. The feature is enabled automatically, but you can turn it off in the My Downloads section of the app if you prefer to keep your favourite episodes stored, rather than deleted upon the first viewing.
Will this update change the way you use Netflix on Android? Or do you like to have a stockpile of your favourite Trailer Park Boys episodes always on deck for your commute? Let us know @TrustedReviews on Twitter.
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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.
