14 hidden Netflix features most users didn’t know

15 Hidden Netflix Features That Make Streaming Better

Many of us use Netflix the same way every time. We search, we scroll, we settle. But Netflix includes a surprising range of features that go unnoticed. Whether it is tailoring your recommendations or removing clutter from your screen, these features can completely change your experience.

If you are ready to take full advantage of your subscription, this guide will help you find new ways to enjoy content like never before. Ready to unlock the full potential of Netflix? Keep reading to discover hidden features that will revolutionize your streaming experience.

Use Genre Codes to Explore Hidden Categories

Netflix organizes its vast library using thousands of genre codes that are not visible through regular browsing. These codes link to very specific themes like vampire comedies or classic Westerns. You can access them by entering a code at the end of the Netflix URL in your browser.

For example, adding a number like 67879 opens up Korean dramas. It is an easy way to skip past broad categories and dive into more niche interests. This can help you discover shows that match your exact mood.

Explore Netflix’s Game Library

Netflix is quietly growing its game collection. On the mobile app for iOS and Android, you can access dozens of games from the Games tab. These include indie titles as well as adaptations from popular Netflix series.

Simply tap the game, download it from your device’s app store, and log in with your Netflix account. It’s a unique extension of the service and offers casual entertainment when you’re not in the mood to watch a full show.

My Netflix Tab Keeps Everything You Need in One Place

Netflix has begun rolling out a redesigned ‘My Netflix’ tab in some apps and devices (for example, new Apple TV and updated TV/mobile apps) that centralizes your in-progress shows, saved titles, and downloads. Availability depends on your device and the app version, so you may see it after an update.

You’ll also find notifications, trailers you’ve viewed, and titles you’ve rated. It reduces the need to jump between sections, streamlining your Netflix experience into something more organized and accessible.

Transfer Your Profile Without Losing Preferences

Netflix’s Profile Transfer lets you copy an existing profile (recommendations, watch history, My List, and game saves) to a new or existing account or to an extra member slot. It copies a single profile but does not merge multiple profiles into one.

Look for the Profile Transfer option in the account settings. It makes the transition smooth and stress-free.

Let Netflix Choose Something for You

When you are unsure what to watch, even a large selection can feel limiting. Netflix offers a feature called Play Something that helps in these moments. It randomly selects a title for you based on your viewing history and preferences.

This option appears on the home screen or while browsing your profile. Instead of guessing or overthinking, this feature gets you started quickly with something that fits your taste. It is a practical way to break the cycle of indecision and try something new.

Customize Subtitles to Suit Your Viewing Style

Subtitles are important, whether you use them for language support or just prefer having them on. Netflix allows you to change how they look so they match your comfort level. You can adjust the font, size, background, and color of the text.

These settings are available under Subtitle Appearance in your account. A preview screen lets you see changes as you make them. This feature is especially useful for viewers who want a clearer or more accessible subtitle display.

Test Your Streaming Speed from Within the App

If your stream suddenly looks grainy or buffers, it might not be Netflix’s fault. The app includes a built-in internet speed test.

You can check your connection with Netflix’s official Fast.com speed test (fast.com), and on many smart TVs and devices, use the Netflix app’s network check (Get Help → Check your Network) or the app’s settings; the exact menu path varies by device and app version.

This feature gives you an instant read on whether your current connection supports smooth streaming. It can be a helpful diagnostic tool, especially when switching networks or troubleshooting performance.

Delete Specific Titles to Refresh Recommendations

Sharing your account sometimes means your algorithm gets confused. Maybe someone else watched a genre you never would. The good news is you can reset recommendations without deleting your whole history.

Head to Viewing Activity in your account settings and remove the titles that don’t reflect your taste. The recommendations will then adjust accordingly.

Use Audio Descriptions for More Context

Netflix includes an option to enable audio descriptions that explain what is happening on screen. These narrations are especially helpful for people with visual impairments, but can also benefit anyone who wants more detail.

You can turn them on by selecting Audio and Subtitles during playback and choosing a track labeled with audio description. This feature adds another layer to the viewing experience and can make complex scenes or quiet sequences easier to follow.

Tidy Up Your Continue Watching List Anytime

Left a movie halfway and never plan to finish it? Or perhaps someone else started something on your profile. You can now manage your Continue Watching row by heading to your viewing activity on the Netflix website.

To remove items from Continue Watching, you can use the title’s menu (Remove from Row/ Remove from Continue Watching) on many TVs and mobile apps, or edit Viewing activity on the Netflix website. Removing an item from the viewing activity also clears it from Continue Watching.

Download Episodes and Movies for Offline Viewing

Being offline does not mean being disconnected from entertainment. Netflix lets you download many of its shows and movies so you can watch them later. This is great for travel, flights, or areas without good service.

Just find the download icon next to a title in the app. Downloads stay available for a set time, and some shows have limits on how many times you can download them. But for most users, it is an easy way to keep watching without needing constant internet access.

Adjust Your Watch History to Improve Suggestions

Netflix bases its recommendations on what you’ve watched, but sometimes that includes shows that don’t match your taste. If a friend used your profile or you tried a title and didn’t like it, you can remove it from your history.

Open the Viewing Activity section in your settings and click the hide option next to the title. Once removed, that content will no longer influence what Netflix suggests. This is an easy way to reset your algorithm without deleting your entire profile.

Use Voice Commands With Smart Devices

If you have a smart TV or device connected to Alexa or Google Assistant, you can control Netflix with your voice. This includes playing specific shows, pausing, rewinding, or skipping episodes. Some smart TV remotes also come with a microphone, allowing you to speak directly into the device.

This makes browsing easier when you don’t want to type or use a remote. It’s especially convenient if your hands are full or you’re watching from across the room and want to keep the experience hands-free.

Confused about how to set up Netflix on your Samsung Smart TV? Learn the fastest way to get it running smoothly with this quick-start guide.

Request Content You Want to See on Netflix

If there’s something you want to watch that’s not currently on Netflix, you can request it directly from the platform. This feature is found in the Help Center under Request TV shows or movies. You can submit up to three requests at a time.

While Netflix doesn’t guarantee that the content will be added, repeated requests from users do influence future licensing decisions. It’s one way to let Netflix know what its audience wants, especially if there’s a popular title that’s missing from the current catalog.

Can’t stream Netflix on your Vizio TV like you used to? Learn how to troubleshoot and resolve the problem step by step.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing