Netflix’s New Mobile App Has a Vertical Video Feed, but You Still Have to Watch TV Shows and Movies in Landscape Mode

Netflix's latest mobile app update is a mixed bag for viewers who want to experience its content in a more immersive, vertical format. On one hand, having a dedicated video feed that takes advantage of the phone's upright viewing position is a nice touch – it's something we've seen make social media apps like Instagram and TikTok so engaging.

However, if you're anything like me, your primary concern isn't getting the latest season of "Stranger Things" in vertical form; it's how much this update might impact your overall streaming budget. The good news is that Netflix has committed to maintaining the horizontal viewing experience for full-length series and movies – so you won't need to upgrade your phone or spend extra money on a new app just yet. But if you're looking to make the most of vertical content, be prepared to shell out for a separate streaming service like YouTube Premium or TikTok's own ad-free subscription model.

To save some cash, consider rotating between different video apps – Instagram Reels and Facebook Watch are also great places to find vertical content that won't break the bank. If you're a die-hard Netflix fan, look into their $9.99/month ad-free plan to keep your viewing experience uninterrupted – but don't feel pressured to upgrade if vertical viewing isn't for you.