- Netflix introduces a new feature that will let you vote during live events
- It will debut alongside the new Star Search competition
- It is only available on specific devices and at certain times
Netflix has announced a new feature that will allow viewers to vote during live streams of specific TV shows.
In a press release sent to the Netflix editorial office, the streaming giant revealed that users will be able to vote in real time on a selection of titles.
Starting today (January 20) with the rebooted version of Netflix’s music competition series Star searchmembers of the public can use the interactive tool to, for example, vote to prevent their favorite artist from being eliminated.
The star-based system, which allows you to rate something from one to five stars (out of five), is seen as an extension of the current thumb-based rating system that Netflix uses for all of its content. This feature, which allows you to provide feedback to Netflix about whether you disliked, liked, or liked any of its movies, shows, or documentaries, has been in place for several years on the world’s best streaming service.
How does Netflix’s new live voting feature work?
To participate in real-time voting, you will need to watch the Netflix app on supported devices. These include smart TVs, mobile phones, streaming devices – think Roku and Fire TV sticks and Apple TV – and gaming consoles. You won’t You will be able to vote if you watch Netflix through a web browser. So you’ll need to switch to your phone or TV if you’re logged into Netflix on a laptop or desktop.
When it’s time to vote, an on-screen notification will appear letting you know that voting is now live. When prompted, use the directional pad on your TV remote control to select the number of stars you want to award, or tap the star rating on your mobile phone screen to make your decision.
There are a few caveats to consider. On the one hand, you will only have a set amount of time to vote. If you rewind or pause the live episode for any reason, or if you can only view it on demand, you will miss the voting window. Additionally, you will only be able to vote once per prompt. So, once you submit your application, your decision will be final. Finally, the voting interface is only available in English, so non-English speakers might have trouble understanding what to do.
Netflix has confirmed that there will be multiple votes per event, so there will be plenty of opportunities to shape the outcome of each live episode.
A fun new feature, but one that won’t benefit everyone
Netflix’s latest feature isn’t a new idea, but it’s nonetheless a welcome addition to its interactive repertoire designed to entice passive viewers to interact with the live content they’re watching.
The only current downside to its introduction is that it will only benefit people living in North and South America.
Indeed, with new sections of live programs like Star search starting at 6 p.m. PT / 9 p.m. ET, these start times are not conducive to users who live in other territories. And, as I pointed out above, you can’t vote outside of the live viewing window. If, for example, someone in the UK wants to vote for a series like Star searchthey would have to stay up very late to do it.
Netflix has indicated that it will use this feature for other live events, so subscribers outside of the Americas should be able to enjoy it in other capacities, such as the streamer’s expansion into live sports. It remains to be seen, however, how such a feature would work when, say, an NFL game is streamed live on Netflix, or whether it will be a novelty that will soon lose its appeal. We’ll have to see how popular he is on shows like Star search before it is potentially used elsewhere.
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