The latest feature update on Netflix is a setting that allows Android users to turn off video and consume content in an audio-only mode.
The new feature is now being rolled out via a server-side update for the app. It may not yet be available for most users, but those who have it should now see a “video off” button at the top of the player in full screen. Once in audio-only mode, the screen will be blank, but will still show all of the standard playback controls.
With the update, there is also an audio-only option within Netflix’s setting, which allows users to choose whether they want to set the feature to Always On, Headphones or External Speakers, or Off.
News of the update came from AndroidPolice, following XDA Developers first discovering the feature before in October, before its rollout. Tech-savvy users who haven’t received the new settings can check out the version 7.84.1 build 28 35243 update at APKMirror.
Many note this feature will likely be good for saving data and possibly also battery life. While the main point of Netflix is to offer a visual experience, there are likely more documentary-style programs that can be consumed primarily through audio while multitasking. Some also note that Netflix also already produces its own podcasts, which could now have a home on the brand’s main platform. Currently, Netflix podcasts are featured on audio-based apps, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.