What model of TV do you have at home? If we ask you the question, it’s because it seems that Netflix will soon no longer be compatible on all television sets. Some subscribers thus found themselves overnight with the following message displayed on their screen: “Netflix is no longer available on this device. See the list of compatible devices at netflix.com/compatibledevices”.
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Exit older Smart TVs
According to RTL info, which contacted Netflix, the streaming giant has indeed admitted that it no longer supports certain devices. Concretely, the latest update from the American company will no longer be suitable for certain older intelligent televisions (or Smart TVs). In question ? These older devices could pose security risks to members. Specifically, the affected devices are those that support the SSLv3 security system, an older communications protocol.
A question of cybersecurity
The problem is that these TVs which have a more vulnerable SSL protocol make the risk of attacks on applications like Netflix greater. The platform has therefore decided to cut ties with televisions like Samsung, Panasonic, Hitachi and Sony which have the SSLv3 security system. If this stop seems brutal, it is also inevitable for Netflix, which has an obligation to provide a security service to its subscribers. The risk ? That customers’ personal data is stolen by a hacker who exploits the fact that Netflix does not update its SSL protocol. Netflix also protects itself, because the American firm has the obligation to respect the various security regulations that govern platforms in Europe such as the GDPR and the DSA
The other reason is economic. Supporting an app for older devices costs Netflix millions. The best would be if television operating systems could be updated, just like smartphones which guarantee a certain number of years of software updates. In the world of television, the practice is less renowned and regulated. As a customer, you can therefore look at the conditions of use for future updates, a reflex that we rarely have.
What to do if your TV is no longer compatible?
No need to throw away your television. You can still project Netflix content using your computer or tablet which you plug directly into your screen. Another solution is to opt for a “connected dongle”. This small device plugs directly into the HDMI port of the television and allows you to project content from your smartphone, like Google’s “Chromecast”. Amazon’s “Fire TV Stick” allows you to recreate a multimedia environment to access certain apps like Netflix on your television.
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