Netflix is fed up with the old Apple TV. The streaming giant sent an email to customers on Tuesday saying that it will no longer support second- and third-generation Apple TV models after July 31.
Netflix also updated its Apple TV support page, stating that older Apple TV models will lose support at the end of next month.
Netflix did not immediately respond to CNET’s request for comment on its decision to end support for older Apple TV models.
Apple launched the second-generation Apple TV in 2010, followed by the third-generation model in 2012. Inadequate, only HD support, incompatible with Apple App Store.
By Apple’s own calculations, the second- and third-generation Apple TVs are also outdated: The company ended all support for the devices seven years after they were released (that’s seven and five years ago, respectively).
While Netflix is ubiquitous on a variety of devices and platforms, supporting its apps on so much hardware is resource-intensive. Like other app makers, Netflix analyzes usage from time to time and determines which devices no longer need to devote resources to ensuring they can use its software. The company clearly thinks older Apple TVs now fit the mold.
Netflix has made similar decisions in the past, ending support for a range of older TVs and set-top boxes, as well as Samsung TVs and Roku devices. Netflix has never revealed the formula it uses to determine when to stop supporting a device.
It’s unclear how many users are still running second- and third-generation Apple TVs, but given their ages, the number is likely small. For these users, there are few options to continue watching Netflix on their TV. First, you can choose to stream Netflix from another device connected to your TV, or you can buy another set-top box. In fact, while Netflix is turning off support for older Apple TV models, those who access the streaming service on those devices won’t lose their subscription and will be able to stream from another device.
Going forward, it’s unknown when Netflix will phase out support for other Apple TV hardware. But considering the fourth-generation model launched in 2015 – just three years after the third-generation version – it may not be long before it meets the same fate.
