Netflix has announced that the playback speed of movies and series will be individually adjustable in the future. Initially the new feature will only be available on Android devices. It will then be introduced in the iOS and browser versions.
Already in the run-up to the introduction of the new function there were fierce arguments about it. While users had increasingly asked for the introduction of such a function, according to Netflix, filmmakers are going to the barricades: They do not agree to lose authority over their work of art to any extent. In addition to actor Aaron Paul, director Judd Apatow, for example, complained about Twitter.
Netflix had announced the introduction of the speed control function to the US magazine The Verge. There it was reported that a regulation in a total of five steps will be possible. In addition to the standard speeds, speeds of 0.5, 0.75, 1.25 and 1.5 are available. This means that playback can be accelerated as well as slowed down. The speed options offered can be classified as moderate – for example in comparison with YouTube.
By default, all content will continue to be played at the speed intended by the production – even if the speed of another piece of content has been individualized beforehand. This means that it must be decided individually for each film and series whether the speed should be adjusted or not. According to Netflix, this ensures that no one accidentally watches a movie or series faster or slower than intended.
It is not known when exactly the new feature will be introduced on Android devices and when it will be available in the iOS and browser versions. However, it can be expected that the actual introduction will take place soon. First announcements had already been made at the end of last year.
