Jake PopistWe’re all hooked on Netflix. Here’s how to make the most of your streaming experience.
Change your region and expand your Netflix library
You might have heard that your Netflix account offers different shows depending on where you are. If you travel, you may have even noticed you can’t access your favorite shows when you’re abroad.
That’s because the licenses Netflix negotiates are heavily dependent on local regulations and pre-existing broadcast licenses. For example, if one show is offered to viewers via a local network, Netflix won’t be able to offer that show, even if the same show is on Netflix in another region.
That’s why the entire Harry Potter series is available on Netflix France but not on Netflix UK. Geoblocks limit your library and frustrate viewers. But there is a solution.
When you sign into your account, Netflix looks at your IP address to decide what content to show you. Your IP address is like your unique digital signature and it contains information about your location.
You can change your IP address easily using a VPN. When you do this your Netflix region will change and you will see a refreshed library of TV series and films.
Get recommendations with Metacritic, Rotten Tomatoes, trailers and More.
It’s a problem we all are familiar with: what do I want to watch on Netflix?
The Netflix Enhancement Suite is here to help. The suite is a package of helpful add-ons that lets you easily peruse pop-up reviews and ratings on Metacritic and Rotten Tomatoes. It also integrates with IMBD, and separate full-length trailers of whichever show you’re pondering.
The extra windows are user-friendly and pop-up automatically so you can make an informed decision without toggling to another tab. The suite works on your laptop, phone, TV, or Roku is 100% free.
Keep Watching Netflix and Multitask
If you’re the type that likes ‘background noise’ a tool that lets you view a browser window in a separate small screen while still watching video might be for you. There are a couple of good options.
The Floating Browser Window is a free Chrome extension with its own built-in shortcuts and toggle functions. It works like a second screen over any other window but is great if you want to multitask while watching Netflix without reducing the screen size.
Helium is an app available for OSX that performs a similar function. It can be used on either window so you can either do your task on the second window or use it to watch Netflix. It also has an transparency feature that allows you to view both windows at once. When used on this mode the extra window won’t be affected by mouse clicks. That means you can use your whole screen while still watching on the smaller floating window. Maybe not ideal for increased productivity but it will certainly let you binge watch while you do another task!
Jake Popist
