How to Connect Netflix to TV From a Phone

The iOS and Android Netflix apps let you stream what you’re watching on your TV via a device like a Chromecast or Roku. Here’s how to do it:

How to Watch Netflix Using a TV App

Perhaps the easiest way to get Netflix on your TV is with a Smart TV app. Available on Smart TVs from LG, Philips, Samsung, Sony, Vizio, and others, the Netflix app works similarly to the browser version, though you can’t see your DVD queue if you have one. Launching Netflix on a Smart TV varies depending on the brand; some models have a Netflix button on the remote, while others have a button for their respective Smart TV platform. Consult your TV’s manual to figure out how to open and log into the Netflix app.

Connect Netflix to TV Using a Media Player, Game Console, Blu-Ray Player, or Cable TV Subscription

Numerous devices are capable of streaming Netflix, some of which you may already have in your home. These include:

Game Consoles: PlayStation and Xbox consoles also have Netflix apps. You can download it from the PlayStation Store or the Microsoft Store. Nintendo’s current console, the Switch, doesn’t support Netflix at this time, but older consoles like the 3DS and Wii U do. Cable TV Set-Top Boxes: Some cable providers offer Netflix as part of a package, including Dish, RCN, and Xfinity. The Xfinity X1 set-top box has an entertainment platform where users can access the app. Other providers offer Netflix as another channel in their lineup. Contact your local provider for more details. Blu-Ray Players: Brands including LG, Panasonic, Philips, Samsung, Sharp, Sony, and Toshiba include a Netflix option on their players. In most cases, users can access it through the player’s video menu. Laptops: You can watch Netflix on your computer, of course, and you can also connect that screen to your TV using an HDMI cable. Media Players: Devices like the Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, and Nvidia Shield have Netflix apps. Depending on the device, Netflix may already be installed, or you might have to visit the company’s app store to download it. On Apple TV, you can opt-in to be billed for Netflix through iTunes rather than directly through Netflix.

As of Dec.1, 2019, Netflix no longer supports older Roku devices. The streamer says that “technical limitations” prohibit support for the following Roku models: Roku 2050X, Roku 2100X, Roku 2000C, Roku HD Player, Roku SD Player, Roku XR Player, and Roku SD Player.