Netflix Launches Game Controller App for iOS: Here’s How It Works

Netflix has released a game controller app on the Apple App Store, adding a new layer to its entertainment offerings. This app allows Netflix subscribers to turn their iPhones into gaming controllers, so they can play games on their TVs. This development highlights Netflix's ongoing commitment to expanding its gaming catalog since it first entered the gaming world in 2021.

Netflix's Game Controller App

The app's description emphasizes that its primary function is to connect users' iPhones to their TVs, effectively transforming the smartphone into a fully functional game controller. Netflix currently has a library of 70 in-house games, an exclusive collection playable on mobile devices, including both Android and iOS platforms.

It is clear that Netflix is poised to introduce a new era in which users can effortlessly transition from watching to gaming on their television screens. The Game Controller App serves as a bridge between the phone and the TV, using Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity. Currently, the app is only available on iOS devices through the Apple App Store, with no Android version yet. However, an Android version is expected to be released soon.

How Does the App Work?

Upon installation and launch, users are greeted by a floating white directional pad (d-pad) on the left side for navigation, while the right side features familiar X, Y, B, and A controls. The central upper area displays Netflix's iconic 'N' logo.

It's important to note that games aren't available within the app itself. Instead, users are prompted to select a game on their TV and follow the provided instructions to establish a seamless connection. Netflix emphasizes that its gaming offerings on TV are currently in beta, with compatibility potentially limited for specific devices during this phase.

Netflix's Gaming Business

This expansion into gaming began in earnest for Netflix back in August 2021, with the introduction of a modest selection of five foundational games. Since then, the company has steadily delved deeper into this arena, signifying its commitment to evolving entertainment experiences. An interesting highlight in this journey is Netflix's acquisition of Night School Game Studio, a strategic move aimed at bolstering its portfolio of exclusive games.

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