Netflix It's the world's most popular streaming platform, but not all devices allow you to install its app directly. It's common to encounter the annoying message "this app is not compatible with your device," especially on Android TV phones, tablets, and televisions of certain brands or with outdated operating system versions. However, there are Effective and safe methods to install Netflix on unsupported devices And here we explain them to you step by step, integrating official recommendations and alternatives that work.
Why can't I install Netflix on some devices?
Incompatibility can be caused by various reasons, including:
- Older versions of the operating systemMany Android devices, especially those running Android 5.0 or later, may not be compatible with recent versions of the Netflix app.
- Lack of Play Protect certification: Netflix requires devices to have Google Play Protect certificationIf your phone or tablet doesn't have it, Netflix may not appear in the Play Store or may not allow downloads.
- Hardware restrictions: Some features such as Widevine DRM content protection, limited RAM, and older processors may also prevent Netflix from installing or functioning properly.
- Origin of the deviceMany models from Chinese brands sold outside of official channels, such as some Xiaomi, Redmi, Realme, or devices purchased on platforms like Aliexpress, often come without Google certification and present similar problems.
Therefore, if your device is listed as unsupported, it is important to check these factors before trying alternatives. Even the Smart TV with Android TV may have similar problems.
What does Netflix say about incompatibility?
Netflix has specific support pages for incompatibility. The platform recommends:
- Check Play Protect certification: Go to the Google Play StoreTap your profile, then 'Settings' > 'About,' and check if your device is certified. If it isn't, there's no official support, and Netflix doesn't guarantee you'll be able to use its app.
- Keep the operating system up to date: Many installation issues can be resolved by updating Android or iOS to the latest version supported by your hardware.
- Only install Netflix from official sourcesNetflix itself recommends downloading the app from Google Play or, in certain cases, from its official website if it doesn't appear in the store.
Despite these recommendations, there are alternative solutions for those who are unable to update or certify their device.
Essential steps before installing Netflix on an unsupported device
- Update the operating system: Go to 'Settings' > 'About device' > 'Software update'. Install updates if available. This increases the likelihood of compatibility with the latest version of Netflix.
- Check Play Protect certification:
- Open the Google Play Store.
- Click on your profile icon.
- Go to 'Settings' > 'About' and look for the 'Play Protect Certification' section.
- If your device is not certified, you can only install the app using workarounds.
- Back up your data: Before making major changes like installing APKs, back up your personal data.
If these actions do not resolve the incompatibility, you can try the following workarounds.
How to install Netflix on unsupported Android phones and tablets
Option 1: Install an older version of Netflix using APK
- Uninstall any previous versions of Netflix not working: Go to Settings > Apps > Netflix > Uninstall.
- Enable installation of unknown applications:
- Go to Settings > Security or Privacy.
- Enable the 'Install apps from unknown sources' or 'Unknown sources' option.
- Some modern devices allow you to enable this option individually when installing the APK.
- Download the Netflix APK from a secure repository like APKMirror:
- Netflix 7.57.0 Download Link (newer versions may be available at the time of download).
- Check compatibility with your Android version and, preferably, choose the version that offers the best compatibility with your device.
- Install the downloaded APK opening it from the file manager.
- Sign in to Netflix with your account.
This method is safe as long as you download the APK from trusted sources. You may not be able to update Netflix from Google Play, but you'll be able to enjoy shows and movies without any issues.
Option 2: Try different versions of Netflix depending on your system
If the latest version doesn't work, try older versions tested with different resolutions and devices:
- Netflix 3.9.1: For older Android devices, with screen up to 854 x 480.
- Netflix 4.16: Maximum compatibility and resolution 854 x 480.
- Netflix 6.22: For higher screens, up to 960 x 540p.
- Netflix 7.1 (Android TV): For Android TV versions with the same resolution as above, although it may have more restrictions due to DRM.
On some devices, the Android TV app won't work properly due to DRM protection, so you'll need to install a standard mobile version or try several versions until you find the right one.
How to know the resolution and support of your device
To check your device's resolution and choose the right APK, as well as check your device's compatibility with Netflix requirements, you can check the Widevine DRM protection level.
It is also recommended to check the Android version from Settings > About phone.
Other alternatives if Netflix is still not working
Using external streaming devices
- Chromecast, Fire TV Stick or Apple TVIf your phone, tablet, or TV doesn't support installing a working version of Netflix, you can connect any of these devices to your TV and stream content from your Netflix account easily and securely.
- They're easy to install, update automatically, and always support the latest versions of Netflix.
Netflix on Android TV not supported
Some Android TVs or TV boxes also don't allow you to install Netflix from the app. The recommended alternatives are:
- Install Netflix APK for Android TV: Download the app from APKMirror, send it to your TV (via USB, Send files to TV, etc.), and install it using a file explorer. If the icon doesn't appear, you can access it through a launcher like Sideload Launcher.
- Play Netflix through Kodi: Install Kodi, enable unknown sources, and add the Netflix add-on from a supported repository. This way, you'll be able to watch Netflix content without the official app, although your experience may vary.
- Use Chromecast built-in on Android TV: Open Netflix on your phone and select the cast icon to send content directly to your TV.
- Always download APKs from trusted sources like APKMirror or the official Netflix website to avoid malware.
- Disable the option to install unknown apps once you've completed the process to protect your device.
- Consider upgrading your device if none of these solutions work. Entry-level devices with official Google Play support are usually very affordable and guarantee long-term compatibility.
- Ask in the community or in the comments about your specific model. Other users have often found the version and method combination that works for their equipment.
Installing Netflix on an unsupported device can seem like a challenge, but by applying these methods and alternatives, you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies again on virtually any device. Always remember to update first, check for certification, and, as a last resort, opt for alternatives such as manual APK installation or external streaming devices. The technological landscape changes rapidly, so staying tuned for new versions and official information can open up even more solutions for the future.