Some Netflix subscribers aren’t happy about the streaming service’s new look.
The platform recently rolled out a redesigned homepage, its first major update in more than a decade. Netflix’s new layout comes with new ways to navigate, real-time recommendations and detailed information about each title, according to a news release on May 7.
“It’ll be easy to tell if you’re in new territory — just look out for a welcome message that’ll help walk you through your upgraded homepage,” the release said.
The refresh that has been in the works for a couple of years and tested for the last year will roll out to viewers in the coming weeks and months, USA Today reported.
On the mobile phone app, Netflix plans to test a vertical feed on the home page to browse clips and trailers. From that feed, viewers can tap to watch a show or movie, add it to a list or share the title with friends.
“We’re very excited about the feedback we have seen from members who do tell us that they prefer the new experience,” Eunice Kim, Netflix’s chief product officer, told reporters in early May.
The redesign has a cleaner, more contemporary look, according to Kim. Title cards will highlight key details, such as “Emmy Award Winner” or “#1 in TV shows,” to help viewers make more informed decisions. Shortcuts once relegated to the left-hand side will now appear at the top of the page, where they are easier to access, Kim said.
A couple of weeks after the rollout, not all subscribers are happy. Many are voicing frustration —and confusion — on X.
“Bit random from me: But the NEW Netflix Update has somehow made the UI (user interface) like 10000x worse. It hurts my brain when I try and search new shows etc. Am I overreacting or do others not like the new UI?,” one post said.
“Whoever’s job it was to update Netflix UI, I’m praying for a resignation in the coming weeks. IT LOOKS TERRIBLE,” another post said.
“This update is horrible,” one user wrote to Netflix. “Thought I was going to have a brain aneurysm after 3 mins of scrolling with the preview getting bigger. Truly horrendous, can I opt out?”
Some posts also expressed confusion about Netflix’s new update:
USA Today contributed to this story.
Natassia Paloma may be reached at npaloma@gannett.com, @NatassiaPaloma on Twitter; natassia_paloma on Instagram, and Natassia Paloma Thompson on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Netflix update subscriber backlash: Some aren’t happy with platform’s redesigned homepage
Reporting by Natassia Paloma, El Paso Times / El Paso Times
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
