The Netflix App for Quest Headsets is No More

Netflix has officially discontinued its streaming app for Quest headsets, according to a report by Upload VR. While this may come as disappointing news to some users, there is a silver lining: Meta recently added support for Netflix in the Quest browser, allowing users to enjoy streaming in 1080p resolution.

The Netflix VR app, which had not seen significant updates since its port to the Quest in 2019, had long been criticized for its limitations. It lacked passthrough support and the ability to download content for offline viewing, and it remained stuck at a low 480p resolution. These features might have been sufficient when the app first launched for the Samsung Gear VR back in 2015, but much has changed in the VR landscape over the past nine years.

Improvements with Browser Streaming

Streaming Netflix in the Quest browser addresses some of the previous app's shortcomings. Users now benefit from passthrough support and higher-resolution streaming, significantly enhancing the viewing experience. However, the browser option still falls short in some areas, such as the inability to download content for offline viewing, a feature available on the iOS app and other platforms.

One of the advantages of using the browser for streaming is the ability to utilize other virtual environments while watching videos. This added flexibility can enhance the overall experience, making it more immersive and enjoyable for users.

The End of an Era

The cozy Netflix cabin environment, a unique feature of the VR app that many users had grown fond of, will be missed. A glimpse of this nostalgic setting can be seen in this YouTube Short. Despite this, the move to browser streaming represents a necessary evolution, aligning with the advancements in VR technology and user expectations.

Similar Trends on Other Platforms

The discontinuation of the Netflix app for Quest headsets mirrors similar developments on other platforms, such as the Vision Pro. Netflix has not released a dedicated app for Apple's headset, but users can still watch content via a browser. While this workaround is functional, it lacks the refined experience that a dedicated app could provide. Fortunately, third-party developers have stepped in to fill the gap, creating apps like Supercut, which streams Netflix in a web view and offers a "cinema" environment akin to the one designed by Apple for the visionOS Apple TV app.

Conclusion

While the retirement of the Netflix app for Quest headsets marks the end of an era, it also signifies progress. The enhanced streaming capabilities in the Quest browser offer a more versatile and higher-quality viewing experience, albeit with some limitations. As VR technology continues to evolve, users can expect further improvements and innovations that will enhance how we consume media in virtual environments.

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