Netflix is changing up their preview format so you can get the mobile-optimized view of the show or movie you may want to watch next, Variety reports. The streaming service recently updated their mobile app to allow users to see previews in vertical-video mode, a lot like stories on Instagram or Snapchat.
The update will see users able to play previews in the new format on Netflix's updated iOS app starting today and would be "coming soon" to Android devices, according to the company. You'll also be able to add previews to your watch list right from the video screen in a bid to get users to discover more and more content on the platform, pairing it with the watch-and-swipe format that many are now used to from social media. "One of the best ways to know if you’ll like a new series or movie is to watch a quick trailer," said Netflix director of product innovation Cameron Johnson in a blog post about the launch. "With the launch of mobile previews, we are bringing a video browse experience to your mobile phone in a fun and mobile-optimized way."
The company also plans to create content specifically for mobile-video watchers, including 15-minute standup comedy specials. The app will feature the new vertical 30-second previews for hundreds of their original and licensed material, adding more over the next few months. Video previews have only been available on TV-connected devices since late 2016, after years of data indicated "video previews help our members browse less and discover new content more quickly" according to Johnson. "Mobile previews load very quickly, are personalized to your specific tastes," he added.
