Netflix takes another step in transforming the television experience with the launch of a real-time voting feature for its live events.This new system allows users to directly influence the development of certain programs while they are broadcast, taking interactivity to a level that until now had only been seen in contests or reality shows on open television.
From now on, the audience’s decisions weigh more than ever and the viewer stops being a mere observer and becomes an active part of the outcome.
The feature is only available during live streaming of selected events.By connecting to an enabled show, such as the premiere of Star Search, users can cast their vote using the remote control if they are on a TV or by tapping the screen from the mobile app.
This option is not available to those who access Netflix through a web browser, so a smart TV, streaming device, or mobile phone is required to participate.
Each user profile has the right to one vote, which counts along with the millions of people connected at the same time.Voting can be decisive for the contestants, the direction of the program and even the final result of the night.
Thus, interaction becomes a central element of the television experience, bringing viewers closer to the production and decision-making processes of the show.
The function was previously tested in programs such as Cooking Live with DavidChang, where the platform verified that users value the possibility of participating in a simple way, without technical complications or complex interfaces.
The process is quick: when the voting option appears on the screen, the user only has to press the corresponding button or screen to make their decision.The system integrates fluidly into the program, avoiding distractions and maintaining attention on the main content.
Netflix has recommended consulting the help section or the Tudum articles to learn the detailed steps on how to vote, depending on the device used.This guide ensures that any viewer can participate, whether alone or in a group, from anywhere.
With this tool, Netflix seeks to maintain the attention of its subscribers and offer them the possibility of influencing their favorite programs in real time, which represents a significant change in the way of watching and experiencing live events.
For years, Netflix has incorporated rating mechanisms such as thumbs up or down, allowing users to express their opinion about movies, series and specials.
However, real-time voting gives a radical change to the concept of participation.Now, the impact of the audience is immediate and visible, changing the dynamics of live events and giving greater weight to the global community of subscribers.
The company had already experimented with interactivity in content such as Black Mirror: Bandersnatch, where viewers could choose the direction of the story through a video game-type structure.
For that project, Netflix developed the Branch Manager software, capable of managing billions of narrative combinations without interruptions.Although it was a milestone in the history of the platform, most of the interactive titles have been retired to make way for new bets focused on video games and live experiences.
The trend towards personalization and active user participation promises to change the rules of digital entertainment, making viewers go from being simple consumers to agents with real power over what happens on the screen.
With this move, Netflix confirms its commitment to innovation and relevance in an increasingly competitive market focused on user experience.
