NETFLIX viewers are furious over a major change to the TV streamer's app, as a popular perk disappears – while a new feature no one wants is added.
The Stranger things hit maker renews his PC app soon and users have dismissed the big move as a “stupid decision”.
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Netflix has revealed that viewers will no longer be able to download shows and movies offline.
The ability to keep programs on your laptop is an especially appreciated option for people who travel to work or go on vacation.
Price reduction is appropriate as they are actively taking away features you pay for
Netflix user
“It's really bad because I spend three hours a day on the road for work and use it to watch programs on the train,” wrote one subscriber Reddit.
“Now I have nothing since Disney Plus doesn't support it either.”
Another wrote: “My internet is not always reliable, the ability to download programs is essential.
“Why even have a Windows app if you can't use it offline?”
Downloads will continue to be available as a feature in the Netflix mobile apps iOS And Android.
It all follows A similar change on BBC iPlayerwith the dedicated PC download app closing in April.
At the time the BBC said it decided to end support due to “the low number of people using it and the costs required to keep it running”.
As for Netflix's new PC app, users are also upset that the replacement now supports advertising plans.
The current app doesn't work with the cheaper, ad-supported tier of Netflix.
“Price reduction is appropriate because they are actively taking away features you pay for,” wrote one irate viewer.
“Netflix is absolutely ruining itself.”
On its website, Netflix says: “A new Netflix app for Windows is coming soon, offering support for watching live events, improved streaming quality, compatibility with ad-supported plans, and more.
“Although downloads are no longer supported, you can continue to watch TV shows and movies offline on a supported mobile device.”
WHAT'S THE BIG IDEA?
Analysis by Jamie HarrisSenior Technology and Science Reporter at The Sun
Netflix hasn't said why the download feature is going away from the desktop, but it's almost certainly due to declining usage.
Nowadays, more and more people are streaming content directly from mobile devices or their TV.
That's exactly what happened with the BBC iPlayer Downloads app – and it was blamed on the cost of keeping an underused tool running.
As far as accommodating advertising goes, this isn't surprising, as advertising is a big growth area for Netflix and other streamers.
Netflix's advertising chief unveiled in January that the ad-based tier now has more than 23 million globally active users per month.
With prices rising almost annually, companies have tried to offset the impact by telling users they can keep (or reduce) their current subscription costs with ads, but if you want an ad-free experience, you'll have to pay more for the privilege.
So expect more ad-supported subscription models in the future.