Netflix has begun running a test of a new TikTok-like feature that’s aimed at kids, providing a dedicated new feed filled with short clips that are viewed horizontally.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Netflix is testing a new Kids Clips feature in its iPhone and iPad app
- The new kids’ feed hosts TikTok-like clips in the vertical orientation
- Children can watch no more than 10 to 20 clips at a time
Netflix starts testing a new Kid Clips feed
The new feature appears as a dedicated kids’ feed in the company’s iOS app in the United States and other countries. Titled Kids Clips, the feed hosts short-form videos that are presented in fullscreen mode and vertical orientation similar to TikTok. The videos in the Kids Clips come from Netflix’s vast library of content, with new ones added daily.
iOS developer Steve Moser was first to discover evidence of this feature in hidden code, prompting Netflix to officially confirm its existence to Bloomberg reporters Mark Gurman and Lucas Shaw. Read: How to lock your Netflix profile with a PIN
The effort, which Netflix referred to as a test, builds on an earlier feature called Fast Laughs that spotlights comedy clips. It launched earlier this year. Netflix also has created rankings of its most popular titles, giving users another way to find shows they might like. The kids’ feed will resemble Fast Laughs, but the videos will be viewed horizontally—as opposed to vertically—and will take over the entire screen. Kids will only be able to watch 10 to 20 clips at a time.
The new Kids Clips feed will start appearing on Netflix for iPhone in the United States, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America in a few days.
Netflix regularly tests upcoming features with some users. However, the Kids Clips test is no guarantee whatsoever that the feature will launch publicly so keep that in mind.
As a way to attract younger viewers to its platform, Kids Clips is a clever feature that could help young users discover programming on the platform suitable for their age. The streaming platform recently made other moves to appeal to the youngsters, like introducing streaming mobile games as part of a user’s monthly subscription.