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Netflix raises the standard for its latest 'Recommended' TVs (updated)
Last year, Netflix launched its "Recommended TV" label to coax manufacturers to improve speeds on Smart TVs and, of course, push its service. This year, it's asking for more by making them meet five out of seven criteria, including instant on, TV resume, an up-to-date Netflix version, fast app launch, fast app resume and a Netflix button and icon. Only two manufacturers have earned the logo so far: Sony models like the X850D and X930D from the Android 4K series, and LG TVs with webOS 3.0, including the UH8500 and UH9500. Other manufacturers have yet to be selected.
Netflix wants cable TV to be just another app
When it comes to the living room, Netflix has a problem. Sure, it's ridiculously simple to get Netflix on your TV: Virtually every smart set offers the service, as do games consoles, streaming boxes and even some DVRs. But as users power on their TV, they're not powering on Netflix. Instead, they're probably watching cable, or perhaps logging onto their PS4 or Xbox. Depending on their setup, it's likely to take minutes to start streaming something. Announced this morning, Netflix's Recommended TV program is an evaluation process that it hopes will bring a better experience to its customers, and elevate the importance of its service to be on par with cable TV. Today at CES, the company demoed what this program will mean, and why it's a good idea for everyone -- including its competitors.
Netflix will tell you which TV is best for Netflix
Netflix is launching a new initiative to recommend the best TV for its streaming service. Starting this spring, a "Netflix Recommended TV" logo will start appearing on TVs from Sony, Sharp, Vizio, LG and manufacturers of Roku TVs (so far TCL, Best Buy's in-house Insignia brand and a few other second-tier players are signed up to produce Roku sets). What does this certification actually mean? According to Netflix, TVs bearing the logo will have hit some "performance criteria" targets including fast app launch, fast resuming of video playback or the ability to power a TV directly into the Netflix app. The program will initially be available in the US, but the features it brings will spread around the world through this year.
