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Netflix for Android adds ‘Cellular Data Usage’ to control video quality

After announcing the ability to pay for a subscription using Google Play billing, Netflix is now rolling out cellular data usage controls so users don’t go over their monthly carrier caps. The feature requires an updated app with a global rollout starting today.

Starting in version 4.5, there is a new “Cellular Data Usage” option in “App Settings.” The default Automatic setting allows users to stream 3 hours of content per GB of data at 600 Kilobits per second. According to Netflix’s testing on cellular networks, “this setting balances good video quality with lower data usage to help avoid exceeding data caps and incurring overage fees.”

Turning off Automatic will let users select five options from watching only on Wi-Fi to Unlimited. In between are Low (4 hours per GB), Medium (2 hours per GB), and High (1 hour per GB). Netflix notes that bit rate count could change over time as it works on improving picture quality while streaming more efficiently. It also notes that “actual data usage can vary based on your device capabilities and network conditions.”

Version 4.5 of the Netflix app is rolling out now via the Play Store, though the feature is not yet live for all.

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Avatar for Abner Li Abner Li

Editor-in-chief. Interested in the minutiae of Google and Alphabet. Tips/talk: abner@9to5g.com