Netflix 2.0: Platform teases game-changing update – interactivity takes center stage
Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+ and others – while Netflix once stood almost alone in the subscription streaming market, more and more competitors have since entered the scene. Still, Netflix doesn’t appear to be relying solely on exclusive original content to stay ahead. As CTO Elizabeth Stone explained at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 in San Francisco, the company is developing major innovations designed to turn “passive viewers into active participants.” Netflix seems to be evolving into a more interactive entertainment platform – a kind of Netflix 2.0.
The spotlight is on the rollout of live content with real-time interaction. In the future, Netflix plans to expand beyond films and series to include live shows, sporting events, and comedy specials – giving viewers the opportunity to actively take part in the experience. The Paul vs. Tyson boxing match has already demonstrated that Netflix’s infrastructure can handle the load, supporting 65 million simultaneous streams without issue.
Netflix has previously experimented with audience participation during the live show Dinner Time with David Chang, where viewers could use their smartphones to vote in real time on which dishes the host should prepare next. Beginning in 2026, the reboot of the talent show Star Search will mark the first format that allows audiences to cast their votes live – either via smartphone or remote control – but only during the broadcast itself.
At the same time, Netflix is overhauling its user interface. Animated start pages are being introduced to create a more immersive, theme-based experience – the first will feature a Halloween world and a Bridgerton-themed world. On mobile devices, Netflix is testing vertical video feeds with short, snackable clips designed for quick viewing. A new “Moments” feature will also let users share scenes from shows or movies directly with others.
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