Netflix recently discontinued its casting functionality across a broad range of smart TVs and streaming devices. The feature is now restricted to older Chromecast adapters without remotes, Nest Hub smart displays, and select Vizio and Compal smart TVs. Previously, Netflix supported casting to numerous devices, including Android TVs that officially used Google's casting technology, and offered "Netflix 2nd Screen" for devices like Sony PlayStation, LG, Samsung, and Roku.
This technology's foundation dates back 15 years when Netflix engineers collaborated with YouTube, Sony, and Samsung to develop DIAL (Discovery and Launch), an open second-screen protocol. In 2012, Netflix was the first major streaming service to integrate a casting feature into its mobile app, initially for PlayStation 3 users. Google subsequently launched its first Chromecast dongle, which incorporated elements from DIAL.
Casting experienced initial popularity, with over 100 million Chromecast adapters sold. However, its necessity gradually declined as smart TVs became more capable and streaming services developed native applications. Industry observations indicate that casting usage, even among Android users, has decreased significantly. Netflix has not publicly commented on the removal of the feature. The change is hypothesized to be a strategic decision, potentially to prioritize new functionalities like cloud gaming and interactive voting, which involve complex multi-device connectivity.
Despite Netflix's changes, Google Cast continues to be supported by other companies. Apple recently integrated Google Cast into its Apple TV app on Android. Samsung and LG have also incorporated Google's casting technology into some of their televisions. Google's Android platform PM, Neha Dixit, confirmed continued investment in Google Cast, with further developments expected.
Simultaneously, the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), known for the Matter smart home standard, has introduced Matter Casting. This protocol aims to provide an open alternative for streaming services and device manufacturers to implement second-screen experiences without needing specific agreements with Google. Amazon, a key proponent, supports Matter Casting.
Matter Casting has faced limited adoption, primarily supported by Fire TVs and Echo Show displays, with Amazon's apps being early adopters. Tubi recently incorporated Matter Casting into its mobile applications. CSA technology strategist Christopher LaPré noted that brand confusion exists, as Matter-certified TVs do not inherently support Matter Casting.
LaPré suggests that Matter Casting could gain momentum through Matter's expanded support for cameras, enabling casting of user-generated content. Additionally, the CSA is developing Matter audio casting, planned for release later this year, which may also renew interest in video casting.