Netflix Tests Overhaul of TV Player for Improved User Experience
Netflix Tests Overhaul of TV Player for Improved User Experience
Andrew McCartySun, August 2, 2026 at 5:07 AM UTC
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Netflix is a constantly-evolving streaming platform that serves over 200 million monthly users who have high standards for the service.
As such, the streaming giant continuously attempts to improve its platform behind the scenes before rolling out major changes. According to a new report from What's on Netflix, the streaming service is doing so once again.
Netflix Testing out TV Player Overhaul
What's on Netflix revealed the streaming giant is "rolling out a brand-new test starting today (July 29th) for its TV application, tweaking the video player interface to make pausing, adjusting subtitles, and joining live events easier, with the hope of making the viewing experience more seamless."
Those hopping on Netflix this week might notice a revamped and streamlined play/pause button and no more back button.
What's on Netflix noted that the the ability to play and pause remains, "but you’ll just use your device’s middle button or dedicated play/pause buttons on your remote—something you probably already do."
The on-screen back button that generally sat at the top left of the screen is being removed as most users rely on their remote.
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Netflix Consolidating Icons to 1 Location
Netflix is also consolidating its icons to one location (the bottom left) rather than having them spread around the screen, causing the viewer to shuffle around. Tweaking the language settings is also much less intrusive under the new test with the menu appearing as an overlay.
The live events prompt is also getting an update.
"When members click into a live event from the top carousel that is already underway, they’ll now be greeted with a clear, immediate choice: start from the very beginning, or jump straight to what’s happening live. This prompt replaces the old ‘More Info’ button," What's on Netflix said.
Photos of the potential changes can be found here.
Related: Netflix Reverses Decision to Cancel One of Its Most-Watched Shows
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 2, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
