Netflix today updated its native iOS app with iPhone 5 and iOS 6 support. You can grab the latest version now from the official Apple App store.
The requirements for the app now read: “Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. Requires iOS 5.0 or later. This app is optimized for iPhone 5.” The previous version also required iOS 5.x, but obviously the iPhone 5 addition is new.
The updated app takes full advantage of the 16:9 widescreen screen display. That means you can use the extra space for both your usual video viewing of movies and TV shows, as well as general rummaging around the app.
Here are two iPhone screenshots of the new app (the iPad appears to be unaffected by the update):
Netflix is the latest popular app on iOS to get iPhone 5 and iOS 6 support. The iPhone 5 came out last Friday, and while that might seem like not so long, Netflix is actually late to the game.
The following apps all beat the streaming giant to supporting Apple’s latest and greatest: Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, Instagram, Foursquare, Pocket, Flipboard, and of course many others. None of those have video at their core, however, which is arguably harder to extend.
Netflix doesn’t exactly have a streaming video competitor on iOS, so the company can take its time. Then again, the small company is showing it doesn’t mind leaving an opening for Amazon to swoop in and show off a bit, and that’s never a good thing.
The official Netflix for iOS version 2.4 changelog is as follows:
- Optimized for iPhone 5.
- Added support for iOS 6.
- Improved browsing, searching and watching experience.
If you see something else new in the app that wasn’t mentioned, do let me know. In the meantime, I have contacted Netflix about this release. I will update you if and when I hear back.
Image credit: Peter Szustka
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