Oh Netflix, and you were doing so well… Streaming service Netflix has been testing running promotional ads between episodes of whatever is being watched, something that has gotten right up the noses of those who have experienced the recent test.
The test was spotted by various users around the world, who posted their annoyance at the ‘unskippable’ promos on Reddit and that other social media platform people use to complain about things. A suggested trailer would begin playing in between episodes of other TV shows being watched, according to those who have experienced the test.
Netflix confirmed the test to website TechCrunch, pointing out that the company was using the promos to try and cut short the time people spend browsing by offering suggestions based on Netflix’s algorithm and user’s habits. Netflix said, “In this particular case, we are testing whether surfacing recommendations between episodes helps members discover stories they will enjoy faster. It is important to note that a member is able to skip a video preview at anytime if they are not interested.”
Netflix, in this instance, has used the video promo tests to try and suggest to viewers something else they might like based on their viewing habits. The fear is that Netflix will use similar tactics to provide advertising to its subscribers — a lack of which is one of the main draws of the service, besides being able to watch what you want, when you want. If we wanted ads, we’d start watching DStv.
Whether this feature sticks around isn’t certain, though backlash to changes has led Netflix to make changes in the past. Long story short, if the between-episode rolling of suggested content promos leads to users watching more suggested shows, the company will probably keep it. If it causes the service problems, though, it’ll likely be chucked in the bin.
Source: via TechCrunch