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Some smart TVs and streaming devices are already losing access. Here’s how to check and what to do next.
By
Carla Ayers
published
2 March 2026
in News
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Signup + An account already exists for this email address, please log in. Subscribe to our newsletterNetflix is about to stop working on millions of older devices, including some smart TVs made before 2015 and legacy streaming hardware. The change is rolling out now, with some devices, like the PlayStation 3, losing access starting March 2.
This change reflects a broader industry shift as streaming platforms phase out aging hardware that can't support newer video formats, security updates or app features. Older TVs and devices often lack the processing power and memory needed to run the latest version of the Netflix app.
If your device is affected, Netflix will simply stop working, but you don't necessarily need a new TV to keep watching.
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Sign upWhat devices are affected
Not every affected device has been officially listed, but according to Tom's Guide, the phaseout primarily affects older smart TVs and legacy streaming hardware that can no longer support app or security updates. In general, if your device hasn't received software updates in years, it may no longer run Netflix.
Here are the types of devices most commonly reported to be affected:
- Smart TVs manufactured before 2015 (Samsung, LG, Sony, Panasonic)
- Older streaming boxes and DVR-style TV devices
- Legacy gaming consoles like the PlayStation 3
- Some older phones and tablets that can't update to newer operating systems
How to keep streaming without replacing your TV
To keep streaming, your device needs to support newer security standards, typically iOS 16 or later, or Android 7.0 and up. If it doesn't, you'll need to upgrade your streaming setup.
The good news is you don't have to replace your TV. A plug-in streaming device can restore access to Netflix and often improve speed and picture quality at the same time.
These devices connect through your TV's HDMI port and come with regularly updated apps, better performance and ongoing support. Many cost under $30, and sale prices can bring them as low as $15 to $25.
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Roku Streaming Stick Plus (2025) $39.99 $24ViewSee all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricesWhat to do if Netflix stops working
If your device is no longer supported, the simplest fix is to switch how you stream, not replace your TV.
A plug-in streaming device, like a Roku or Fire TV Stick, can restore access in minutes. You can also use a newer game console, laptop or tablet connected via HDMI as a short-term workaround.
Before upgrading, it's worth checking whether your TV has any pending software updates, though most devices affected by this change are no longer eligible for updates.
What this means for viewers
This isn't unusual; streaming services regularly phase out older hardware as technology evolves. What's different this time is the scale, with millions of devices losing support at once.
For most households, the fix is simple: a low-cost streaming stick can keep your current TV in use while giving you access to the latest apps, faster performance and ongoing support.
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Carla AyersSocial Links NavigationeCommerce and Personal Finance EditorCarla Ayers joined Kiplinger in 2024 as the eCommerce and Personal Finance Editor. Her professional background spans both commercial and residential real estate, enriching her writing with firsthand industry insights.
Carla has worked as a personal finance and real estate writer for Rocket Mortgage, Inman and other industry publications.
She is passionate about making complex real estate and financial topics accessible to all readers. Dedicated to transparency and clarity, her ultimate goal is to help her audience make informed and confident decisions in their financial pursuits.
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