We are all under lockdown as we fight COVID-19 and prevent its spread, I understand that most people could even be tired of watching movies day in and day out. But there could be some content that you can access but you don’t have access to due to geographical restrictions or any other issue.
I get it. You’re bored. Remember that these monthly streaming payments add up quickly. So why not get more out of what you’re already paying for? Some methods only work on computers and laptops, while others require Google Chrome or a particular app. But when you think you know everything about Netflix, you suddenly find ways to search, view, and organize its offerings that can freshen that ol’ queue.
Here are some of my favorite Netflix hacks.
1. VPN Or MediaStreamer
VPNs are some of the obvious Netflix hacks that has been the most common way to access Netflix content that is not accessible in your country. We highly recommend using a paid VPN service as they come high security features. VPNs change your IP address and “confuse” any service provider to thing that you are making a request from a different country. It should be noted that some VPN services will be blocked by Netflix as the company has been actively fighting use of VPNs.
You can also use MediaStreamer, this is similar to VPN but also a product for ExpressVPN. MediaStreamer allows users to access the most popular streaming video content they desire in different geographical regions such as the USA without encrypting your online traffic. You can get the streaming content you want on every device in a single setup without the slowdown brought about by VPNs. This will just change your DNS settings, I personally don’t advise this if you are not tech savvy as the set-up is not so straight forward.
2. Using Browser Extensions
If you watch Netflix on your laptop or computer, there are several Chrome extensions you can use to streamline Netflix functions. Extensions are add-ons that let you customize your browser experience – in this case, using streaming video.
Being isolated doesn’t mean you’re stuck watching without friends. After you install this Chrome Extension, play the video you’d like to watch with friends. Click “Start Party” and share the party URL to invite others. The video is synced with your friends’ devices and a chat box lets you all talk about the movie, or whatever, in real-time.
Not everyone is a fan of Netflix Originals. They only want to see the movies and TV series that have already circulated. This Chrome extension removes all Netflix Originals from your home screen, which clears up space to see what else Netflix has on deck.
Some big-name movies and TV shows have migrated to other streaming platforms or will be very soon. In response, Netflix is offering more foreign movies and shows — and original content — than ever before. At some point, the No Netflix Originals extension may leave you with slim pickings.
Why watch in low resolution quality? This extension allows you to pick the quality of video streaming, rather than using Netflix’s default setting.
Well, you can use less bandwidth on your Wi-Fi network or data on your phone. That way, you don’t slow down the other devices in your home. That can go a long way right now with internet networks strained like never before.
d. Remove “Are you still Watching?”
Never ending Netflix extension, can automatically play the next episode of whatever series you’re binge-watching, skip title sequences and search more than 3,000 genres.
Best of all, you can disable that “Are you still watching?” prompt, so series will continue to play until they run out of episodes (or you hit pause on the remote). Yes, Netflix. We’re still watching.
3. Create multiple profiles based on your tastes
Have you ever looked at your Netflix recommendations and wonder whether Netflix’s algorithms know your tastes at all. Most people like more than a handful of genres, actors, and directors, which is why some of these recommendations seem limited or off-base.
Create new profiles that reflect your likes. One profile could be for action-adventure, another for horror films, and so on. While you’re at it, make the kids a profile too.
What if you have someone in your house or with access to your account that won’t quit messing up your recommendations? Become a Netflix ninja.
ALSO READ: How to safeguard your Netflix profile with a secure PIN
4. Make new discoveries with category codes:
Netflix has nearly 14,000 programs you can watch from the main browser. As if that weren’t enough options, there are even more that you might not know about.
I’m talking about secret menus and codes. The downside to the codes is that you can’t access them through your TV. You have to use a computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone browser. Don’t worry, it’s not hard once you know what you’re doing.
Bonus
There is a high probability that you have more than a Netflix account. With all the video streaming options out there, are you struggling to find all the worthwhile content you want to watch? You need to use a specialized search site to find what’s new and popular on the various streaming services from.
