Affected Devices
The devices impacted by this decision include:
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone X
- iPad (5th generation)
- iPad Pro (1st generation)
Users of these models will see a notification upon updating the Netflix app, stating, “We’ve updated the Netflix app! To use the latest version, install iOS 17 or later.” While they can continue using the app for now, it is expected to eventually stop functioning, though Netflix has not specified a timeline for this change.
Background and Implications
The decision to end support for these older devices aligns with Netflix’s strategy to focus on newer software versions. Apple has previously indicated that certain older models, such as the iPhone X, cannot be upgraded to iOS 17 due to hardware limitations. As a result, users will need to upgrade to newer devices to continue receiving Netflix updates.For those still using these older devices, Netflix can still be accessed via a web browser, ensuring users are not completely cut off from the service. However, the lack of updates could pose security risks and limit the overall user experience.As technology advances, this move highlights the ongoing challenge of maintaining compatibility across a wide range of devices while ensuring optimal performance and security for users.
