Netflix will introduce a data saver feature designed for mobile apps sometime in May. The feature will provide its members with more control over their data usage when streaming on mobile networks, allowing them to either stream more video under a smaller data plan, or increase their video quality if they have a higher data plan.
Netflix believes restrictive data caps are bad for consumers and the internet in general, creating a dilemma for those who increasingly rely on their mobile devices for entertainment, work and more.
In order to protect members from overage charges when they exceed mobile data caps, the default bitrate for viewing Netflix over mobile networks has been capped globally at 600 kbps. The number strikes a balance between a good streaming experience and avoiding unplanned fines from mobile providers, Netflix said. More details will be provided closer to launch.
Netflix recently admitted to throttling video speeds in order to protect consumers from exceeding their mobile data caps.
