Netflix is getting a makeover - here’s what’s coming!

Updated May 9, 2025, 6:30 a.m. | By East Coast Breakfast / Skyye Ndlovu

Netflix just booked itself a glow-up filled with AI searches and Insta-style video feeds. Here’s what’s coming to your screens soon!

Netflix and chillers, listen up! The streaming giant is shaking things up and giving its mobile and TV apps a shiny new makeover.

Yep. Netflix went for a spa day and came back looking all refreshed and extra intuitive.

We don’t know when exactly South Africa’s getting these updates, but here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming.

So, mentally prepare yourself (and your binge list).

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What’s changing on the Netflix mobile app?

AI that actually gets you

Have you ever tried searching for a “feel-good movie that won’t make me cry but still has a dog in it” and Netflix just stared back at you like, huh?

Well, that’s about to change. They’re testing a conversational AI-powered search tool (currently on iOS beta).

You can type stuff like “I want something funny and upbeat,” and boom - will fetch something that matches your vibe.

It’s like having a friend who actually listens.

Say hello to vertical video feeds

Netflix is joining the vertical video party. Soon, you’ll get a scrollable feed of short clips from Netflix shows and movies.

It’s kinda like Instagram Reels, but with less people trying to sell you skincare products.

Spot something you like? You can instantly watch it or add it to your list.

You can even send it to your group chat with that one friend who still hasn’t watched Squid Game.

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Things are also getting fancy on your TV

A sleek new look

The TV homepage is also getting a visual glow-up.

Netflix promises a clean, modern, and more ‘elevated’ design. Fancy schmancy

Smarter suggestions that actually make sense

The new homepage gets way better at recommending stuff you’ll actually wanna watch.

You can expect new banners and collections like “Your Next Watch,” “Today’s Top Picks for You,” and “Only on Netflix.”

Plus, they’ll slap much better tags on shows like “Recently Added” or “Emmy Award Winner” so you know what’s hot.

Navigation that doesn’t require a treasure map

You can now say goodbye to hunting for the Search or My List buttons like you’re on a digital scavenger hunt.

The update will make these essential features easier to find, right up top where they should’ve been in the first place.

Recommendations that keep up with your mood swings

Netflix says the new TV homepage will get better at reading the room (and your watch history), updating recommendations in real time based on what you’re vibing with.

So, whether you’re into thrillers on a Tuesday and romcoms by Friday, the new update’s got you.

Check out all the updates in full below!

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So, when are we getting this in SA?

Good question. Right now, there’s no official rollout date for South Africa, but Netflix says the updates will roll out globally in the coming weeks. So, keep your apps updated and your snack stash ready.

Anyways - it’s about time Netflix refreshed its vibe. We were getting bored!

Between AI searches, vertical feeds, and mood-matching recommendations, our lazy Saturday nights might get a lot more interesting.

Bring it on, Netflix.