Netflix comes to Google’s Daydream VR
Google’s Daydream VR platform launched without support for Netflix, leaving Play Movies and TV as the only native video streaming source. Hulu was added a few weeks back, but Netflix is what everyone really wants. That app has , but it isn’t quite as capable as the standard Netflix client on Android. You do get a swanky virtual reality living room, though.
Google’s Daydream VR currently works with the Pixel phones and Moto Z and Z Force. You also need a Daydream View headset, which sells for $80. The Netflix app doesn’t cost anything beyond the usual subscription price, though.
The interface for Netflix VR will look familiar to anyone who has used Netflix in Gear VR. The Daydream version looks a bit nicer to me — less blocky and compressed, especially in darker areas. You are sitting on a couch in front of a large display with the standard Netflix scrolling UI. The walls in the room are decorated with posters from various Netflix original series like BoJack Horseman and Marco Polo. Basically, it’s what I imagine Netflix CEO Reed Hastings’ real living room looks like. When you start watching something, the lights in the room dim to help you focus on the screen. You can still look around during the show, though.
One glaring omission from the Daydream version of Netflix is saving video. This feature was added to the main Netflix app , but the Daydream app is online only. Even if it did have offline access, you might end up with multiple copies saved on your device, since the regular Netflix app and Daydream app are completely separate.
Despite a few missing features, the Daydream Netflix app is a cool experience. It’s probably also the easiest way for people to get Netflix in VR. Gear VR only works with certain Samsung phones, but Daydream will eventually work with most high-end Android devices on Android 7.0 or higher. Samsung phones are not included, though, They’ll stick with Gear VR only. There will also be plenty more Daydream headsets down the road, so the $80 Daydream View won’t be your only option.