Ever wanted to only listen to a Netflix show on your smartphone? Well, the company is rolling out a new audio-only mode for the Android version of the app.
The feature should pop up in Netflix version 7.84.1 build 28 35243, which released earlier this month, according to Android Police. If you start watching a TV show or movie on the app, you’ll notice a new icon near the center that says “Video On.”
If you don’t press the icon, the content will play as normal. However, toggling it off will switch the Netflix app to audio-only mode. The moving images will stop, but not the sound, which will continue playing on your phone’s speakers or headphones.
As Netflix explains, the company is introducing the feature for users who’d like to “continue listening to shows or movies while using other apps or when your screen is locked.” Indeed, Netflix will continue playing the content’s audio even when you shut off your phone’s screen.
PCMag tried the feature, and it’s an interesting way to enjoy Netflix when most of your attention is focused on work or other responsibilities. Essentially, you’re getting Netflix in podcast form.
The audio-only mode was originally spotted in October by XDA-Developers while examining the computer code in the app. In the Netflix’s app settings, you should now find an “Audio Only” tab. It’ll allow you to turn the feature on or off permanently, or activate it only when headphones or external speakers are connected. However, the additional settings weren't working when we tried them out.