How to Watch Netflix with Friends: A Comprehensive Guide

I. Introduction

Watching Netflix is a popular way to unwind after a long day, but it’s not always possible to gather with friends for a binge session. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to watch Netflix with friends regardless of where you are. This article will provide a comprehensive guide with solutions that allow you to watch Netflix with others, even if they’re in different locations.

II. Create a Netflix Party

Netflix Party is a browser extension that allows you and your friends to watch Netflix together at the same time. Once you download the extension, you can create a party and invite friends to join. Here’s how:

1. Install the Netflix Party Chrome extension.
2. Open Netflix and play the movie or show of your choice.
3. Click on the NP icon in the toolbar to create a party.
4. Share the party link with your friends and tell them to click the link to join the party.
5. Use the chat feature to discuss the show as you watch.

Tips: make sure everyone has a Netflix account and that their browser is compatible with Netflix Party. This is a great option if you have a small group of friends.

III. Start a Group Chat

Starting a group chat allows you and your friends to communicate while you watch Netflix. Messenger or WhatsApp are great options for group chats. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open your messaging app.
2. Create a group chat with your friends.
3. Start the Netflix show or movie of your choice on your phone or tablet.
4. Use the chat feature to discuss the show as you watch.

Tips: set some ground rules for the chat, such as no spoilers or only discussing the movie/show during commercial breaks if you’re watching regular TV.

IV. Screen Share

You can use screen share to watch Netflix with friends on different devices and platforms. Here’s how:

1. Choose a video conferencing platform that allows screen sharing, like Zoom or Skype.
2. Start a call with your friends.
3. Start Netflix on your device.
4. Share your screen with your friends and hit play on the show or movie.
5. Use the chat feature to discuss the show as you watch.

Tips: ensure that the internet connection is strong and the sound quality is good. Screen sharing may not work with all devices, so test it beforehand.

V. Virtual Reality

Virtual reality platforms like Oculus TV allow you to watch Netflix with friends in a virtual living room. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Install the Netflix app on your virtual reality platform.
2. Create a party and invite friends.
3. Once everyone is in the virtual living room, start the show or movie of your choice.
4. Use the chat feature to discuss the show as you watch.

Tips: make sure everyone has a compatible virtual reality headset and that the internet connection is strong.

VI. Have a Watch Party

A virtual watch party is a fun way to watch Netflix with friends. Here’s how to plan it:

1. Choose a date and time.
2. Invite friends using a platform like Facebook or WhatsApp.
3. Pick a theme and suggest snacks and drinks to enjoy during the party.
4. Create a playlist of movies or TV shows.
5. Ensure that everyone has access to the same streaming platform. You can use Netflix, Hulu, or Disney Plus, etc.
6. Use a group chat or video conferencing platform like Zoom or Skype to chat during the party.

Tips: make sure everyone is comfortable with the theme and is up for watching multiple episodes/movies.

VII. Netflix Social

Netflix Social is a feature that allows you to connect with friends on Netflix and watch shows/movies together. Here’s how:

1. Log into Netflix.
2. Create a profile and click “Display Name”.
3. Choose a friend to invite to the virtual party.
4. Once your friend accepts, choose a movie or TV show to watch.

Tips: Netflix Social is only available on desktop apps, (Windows and Mac) so ensure everyone is using a desktop device.

VIII. Zoom or Skype Watch Along

Using video conferencing tools like Zoom or Skype is another way to watch Netflix with friends. Here’s how:

1. Choose a video conferencing platform that allows screen sharing, like Zoom or Skype.
2. Start a call with your friends.
3. Start Netflix on your device and play the movie or TV show of your choice.
4. Share your screen with your friends and hit play on the show or movie.
5. Use the chat feature to discuss the show as you watch.

Tips: ensure that the internet connection is strong, use headphones to avoid an echo of sound, and do a soundcheck before starting the movie.

IX. Conclusion

If you love watching Netflix with friends but can’t be together in person or live in different locations, there are plenty of ways to watch together virtually. From Netflix Party to video conferencing using Zoom or Skype, watching Netflix together has never been easier. So, choose your preferred method and start watching with friends anytime and anywhere.