Netflix offers TV, movie downloads

Netflix’s UK original The Crown

Netflix has launched a download option for its content, bringing it in line with global streaming rival Amazon and Google-owned YouTube.

The offline viewing feature is available from this week on Android and iOS devices and includes Netflix Originals such as The Crown, Orange is The New Black and Narcos.

The US SVoD service has said more shows will be available to download soon.

“While many members enjoy watching Netflix at home, we’ve often heard they also want to continue their Stranger Things binge while on airplanes and other places where internet is expensive or limited,” said Eddy Wu, Netflix director of product innovation.

The downloads are available at no extra cost to Netflix subscribers, who begin paying for the service at US$7.99 a month.

Other video streaming apps such as Amazon Prime Video, BBC and iPlayer already let viewers watch content when offline.

Netflix was the big winner at the annual C21 Media Drama Awards in London on Wednesday, taking three prizes including Best Returning Drama Series and Editor’s Choice.