Netflix tests feature that helps members quickly find content they like

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If the recommendations made to you by Netflix’s algorithms haven’t excited you in the past, there is good news on the way. Spotted first by a Twitter user named Jeff Higgins, the video streamer is currently testing a feature on iOS devices called Collections. Content is curated by Netflix’s team of experts and the titles are placed in different categories based on factors like genre, tone, storyline and character traits. Some of the different categories include “Dark & Devious TV Shows,” “Prizewinning Movie Picks,” “Watch, Gasp, Repeat,” “Let’s Keep it Light,” “Netflix Is a Joke,” and Women Who Rule the Screen.”
Those iOS users chosen to test the new feature will find the option to use Collections in the upper right corner of the Netflix homepage where you would normally find “My List.” Tap on a collection category that you find appealing and the page expands to reveal thumbnails of the titles in that specific collection. Above those thumbnails, you’ll see an explanation of what this collection is all about. For example, tap on “Real & Riveting” and you’ll see that the titles in this group are documentaries such as Woodstock, and American Factory.
“We’re always looking for new ways to connect our fans with titles we think they’ll love, so we’re testing out a new way to curate Netflix titles into collections on the Netflix iOS app,” a Netflix spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch. “Our tests generally vary in how long they run for and in which countries they run in, and they may or may not become permanent features on our service.”-Netflix
Netflix is under more competitive pressure than ever before. For example, take Disney+, expected to launch this November 12th. For $6.99 a month, subscribers can stream on four screens simultaneously, set up to seven user-profiles and view streaming content in 4K resolution at no extra charge. To get those features on Netflix, a subscriber would have to pay $15.99 a month.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the primary difference between the new Collections feature and Netflix's existing recommendation system?
What is the primary difference between the new Collections feature and Netflix's existing recommendation system?
Collections are curated by Netflix's team of experts based on factors like genre, tone, and character traits. This differs from the previous system, which relied on algorithms to make recommendations to users.
Q.Which Netflix users are currently able to test the new Collections feature?
Which Netflix users are currently able to test the new Collections feature?
The Collections feature is currently being tested by selected iOS users. They will find the option to use Collections in the upper right corner of the Netflix homepage where 'My List' usually is.
Q.How does Netflix intend for the Collections feature to help it compete with rival streaming services?
How does Netflix intend for the Collections feature to help it compete with rival streaming services?
Netflix hopes Collections will provide recommended titles subscribers want to see, encouraging them to spend more time on the platform. This aims to reduce the likelihood of members signing up for rival services like Disney+.
Q.Are there any plans for the Collections feature to become a permanent part of the Netflix service?
Are there any plans for the Collections feature to become a permanent part of the Netflix service?
Netflix has confirmed that tests vary in length and location, and features may or may not become permanent. There is no guarantee that Collections will be rolled out universally.