Imagine you’re about to embark on a long flight or a remote getaway with limited internet access. How will you keep yourself entertained? Netflix’s offline viewing feature is the perfect solution. With the Netflix app for Mac, you can download your favorite shows and movies to watch without an internet connection.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to set up and use the Netflix app for offline viewing on your Mac. Note that there is no official Netflix app for Mac.
Is There a Netflix App for Mac?
This is the simplest way to use Netflix for Mac:
Setting Up Netflix for Offline Viewing
- Download and Install the Netflix App:
- Visit the Netflix website or the Mac App Store.
- Search for the Netflix app and click “Download.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install the app on your Mac.
- Log into Your Netflix Account:
- Open the Netflix app.
- Enter your Netflix account credentials (email and password).
- Once logged in, you’ll have access to all the content available on Netflix.
Downloading Content
- Find Downloadable Content:
- Not all content on Netflix is available for download. Look for the download icon (a downward arrow) next to the movie or show title.
- Steps to Download:
- Select the title you want to download.
- Click on the download icon.
- The download will start automatically and will be available in the “Downloads” section of the app once completed.
Managing Downloads
- Accessing Downloaded Content:
- Go to the “Downloads” section in the Netflix app to find all your downloaded titles.
- Here, you can see the status of your downloads and start watching your offline content.
- Deleting and Managing Storage Space:
- To delete a downloaded title, click on the download icon again and select “Delete.”
- Regularly check your storage space to ensure you have enough room for new downloads.
Watching Offline
- Playing Downloaded Content:
- Open the Netflix app and go to the “Downloads” section.
- Select the title you want to watch and click “Play.”
- Enjoy your show or movie without needing an internet connection.
- Tips for Optimal Offline Viewing:
- Ensure your Mac is fully charged before starting your offline viewing session.
- Use headphones for a better audio experience.
- Adjust the playback settings to match your preferences.
Troubleshooting
- Common Issues and Solutions:
- If a download fails, check your internet connection and try again.
- If a downloaded title won’t play, ensure your app is up to date.
- Netflix Support Resources:
- Visit the Netflix Help Center for detailed troubleshooting guides.
- Contact Netflix support if you encounter persistent issues.
Are There Any Other Options to Watch Netflix Offline on Mac?
- Use Screen Mirroring to Access the iPad or iPhone App and Use Netflix for Mac
The download option is only available on iPhones and iPads. You can’t launch a Netflix download on a laptop, so we have a problem: even if you get the shows for offline viewing, you’re stuck to the small screen. Or are you?
This is the moment when the Apple ecosystem comes handy. You just need to start the Screen Mirroring feature under AirPlay on your iPhone or iPad. Choose your Mac from the offered list of devices. You’ll be able to use the Netflix app for Mac now.
- Install Windows 10 on Your Mac
Okay; this is a drastic solution that not everyone will like. Windows is mocked by Mac users for being an inferior operating system. But there’s no Netflix app for Mac and there is one for Windows.
Once you have Windows running, you’ll be able to install a Netflix download and start binge watching.
- How About the Screen Recording Feature?
If you want to watch a particular movie or show offline, you can play it while you’re connected on the web and use the Mac’s screen recording feature to save it for later viewing. Keep in mind that this is not entirely legal. You must not share that content. If you keep it in your computer and watch it, no one will find out.
There’s a default screen recording feature on your Mac, which you can access with Command + Shift + 5. Use the “record entire screen” option and save the file in a dedicated folder for easy access.
Why Doesn’t Netflix Make It Easier for Us?
We absolutely need a dedicated Netflix app for macOS. We shouldn’t be forced to be looking for alternative solutions when the Netflix download feature for offline viewing can be so easily available to us. When you already have a subscription and you can use that feature on iOS, why is your Mac restricted?
We don’t have the answers. Hopefully, Netflix will sort things out so we won’t have to use a browser to watch content.
While waiting for such a solution, there are a few ways to work around the problem. You can download content on your phone or tablet and pair it with your Mac for viewing. You can screen record the video, so you can watch it later. If you’re determined to make this work, maybe you’ll even install Windows on your Mac.
The good news is that Apple TV is becoming better, so maybe we’ll get an alternative that replaces Netflix, eventually.
Conclusion
With the Netflix app for Mac, offline viewing has never been easier. Follow these simple steps to download and enjoy your favorite Netflix content without an internet connection. Whether you’re traveling or just want to save on data usage, Netflix’s offline feature is a game-changer. Happy watching!