How To Use Netflix’s Audio-Only Mode On Android Devices

Netflix is currently testing a new feature that lets users stream only audio. The feature brings a totally new dimension to the movie and TV streaming experience, although it’s unclear if it will be released to all in the future.

Some might not see the point of an audio-only movie and TV streaming experience, but it does have its benefits and will likely appeal to certain users. Lifehacker’s David Murphy, for one, said it will work for those who just want to play a movie to add some background noise while working. It will also be useful to those who are driving and are looking for something to listen to beyond the regular playlist.

That said, the audio-only feature works as its name implies. Users will not see anything while the audio is being played. There’s no video or footage that is presented in sync with the sound. It’s like watching a movie in a theater with the eyes covered by a blindfold.

Murphy noted that the experience isn’t as complete as when watching, not just listening to, a movie. The feature, however, will help those who want to relive their favorite movie experience without having to watch. While working, for example, Netflix users can simply play a favorite movie (“Johnny English Strikes Again,” for example) and remember what made them like it in the first place.

Those who are interested in trying out the trial feature can do so by following these steps:

• First, users can only do this using the Netflix app on an Android device. This won’t work on iOS or on other platforms.
• Second, users should make sure that the Netflix app on their Android device is up to date – version 7.84.1 (build 28 35243) to be exact. This can be verified by going to the Netflix app on the Google Play Store, tapping on “About this app,” then scrolling down to the bottom. The information will be shown there.
• Third, while in the same window inside the Play Store, users should try signing up for the Netflix beta, also at the bottom of the app listing. This doesn’t guarantee that users will be able to try the new feature. It does, however, give them the chance to be selected to try it out.

Those who are given access to the audio-only feature will notice a new option that allows them to turn the video on and off. This is located above the play/pause button on the screen. Those who successfully sign up but are not selected to try the feature will see the regular controls.