Key Takeaways
- You can connect a separate device with an HDMI cable to continue watching Netflix on older TV models.
- Try to activate and connect the Screen Mirror feature with your TV and a separate device.
- Alternatively, you can use a streaming device like Roku, Chromecast, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV Stick.
Netflix is ending support for certain TV models, meaning the Netflix app will no longer work. It’s shutting down its app due to performance needs and limited software capabilities, but you can still stream Netflix using an HDMI cable, the Screen Mirror feature, or alternative devices.
You won’t be short of options!
1 Connect a Separate Device With an HDMI Cable
Although Netflix is discontinuing support for older TV models, you can still watch it with an HDMI cable and a separate device (such as a laptop, Blu-ray, DVD player, tablet, smartphone, etc.).
To stream entertainment on Netflix from a separate device, you’ll need:
- An HDMI cable. There are several types of HDMI cables that you can use. Make sure that the HDMI cable is long enough to connect both of the devices.
- A connecting device, including a laptop, iPad or tablet, Blu-ray player, game consoles, etc.
- Display device, such as a TV or monitor.
Connect your devices using the HDMI cable, select the input, and start streaming Netflix—it’s that simple.
2 Use the Screen Mirror Feature on Your TV
Screen mirroring allows you to replicate the content from one screen onto another. For example, you could mirror your smartphone screen to your TV.
Most smart TVs, including Sony, LG, and Samsung, have a screen mirroring feature. Non-smart TVs may need a casting device to stream content, which will be explained later. Understanding the key differences between casting and mirroring can help you decide which option to use.
How to Activate the Screen Mirror Feature
With the screen mirror feature, you need a separate mobile device or laptop. This will enable you to replicate the display of your mobile device or laptop screen on your TV in real-time without the extra steps of physically plugging in any cables. To use Screen Mirror, also known as the Share Screen or AirPlay, follow these four steps.
- Turn on your TV.
- Use your remote control to locate the Settings menu. This should appear as a gear-like icon.
- Click on the All Settings option.
- Find the Screen Mirroring, Screen Share, or AirPlay button and select it to turn it on.
How to Connect a Separate Mobile Device
After you ensure the Screen Mirror feature is activated on your TV, you can Screen Mirror your separate mobile device (e.g., iPhone, tablet, laptop, etc.). Here are five steps to connect the devices.
- Ensure your mobile device or computer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open the Settings menu on your mobile device (e.g., iPhone, tablet, etc.).
- Locate the Control Center.
- Find the Screen Mirroring tab and turn it on to ensure it appears underneath the Included Controls.
- Find the video you want to display on the larger screen and locate the Screen/AirPlay icon to connect.
If you are an Android device user, you can follow these steps to use the Screen Mirror feature.
3 Stream Netflix With Roku, Chromecast, Apple TV, and the Amazon Fire TV Stick
Streaming devices are another alternative way to view Netflix on your TV. Now, there are heaps of streaming sticks and boxes out there, but we’ve looked at four of the most popular options: Roku, Chromecast, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV Stick.
Device |
Features |
Pros |
Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Roku |
Affordable, compatible with various TV models |
Cost-effective streaming option, broad compatibility |
Contains ads, dependent on stable internet connection |
Chromecast |
Portable dongle with Google Assistant, supports various services |
Google Assistant integration, compact and portable |
Requires stable Wi-Fi, extra steps for advanced features |
Apple TV |
Offers Apple TV+ service, integrates well with Apple products |
Frequent software updates, seamless streaming with Apple ecosystem |
More expensive, limited storage options |
Amazon Fire TV Stick |
Supports various models, runs on Fire OS, includes remote control |
Dual-band Wi-Fi support, Alexa built-in for easy navigation |
Lacks Google Play Store support, limiting access to some apps and services |
Regardless of your streaming device preference, there is some additional information to consider while using the Amazon Fire TV stick, Roku, and Apple TV.
Netflix is ending support for more TVs, but you can keep watching! Depending on your TV model and your preference for convenience, you can watch your favorite Netflix content using an HDMI cable, the Screen Mirror feature, or another compatible device.