Netflix is ​​testing shuffle function for movies and series in TV apps

Netflix is ​​testing a shuffle function for its TV apps. Allows users to start any movie or series directly from the user selection screen. Movie selection is based on users’ preferences.

For the time being, the test is only carried out on TV devices such as set-top boxes, the company reports to TechCrunch, which was the first to notice the test. With the test, the company hopes to make it easier for users to find something to watch. The company reports that it is not yet clear whether and when this position will be available; that depends on user feedback. Netflix does intend to eventually roll out the functionality to all users. “The goal is to eventually produce something,” a spokesperson told Variety.

The shuffle function has been tested worldwide with a select number of users since July. When users hit the shuffle button, Netflix will randomly play a movie or series that the service thinks the user will like. This could be, for example, a movie or series that the user has saved to his or her list, or a title that resembles something the user has previously watched.

Netflix is ​​considering several implementations of the shuffle feature. Netflix is ​​currently testing a shuffle button that is shown on the user selection screen. For this, the company tested shuffle buttons in two places elsewhere in the TV apps, for example in the sidebaralthough these tests have since been discontinued. Netflix last year tested a feature that allowed users to play any episode of a specific series.