Netflix has leveled the playing field for iPhone and iPad users with the introduction of its much-requested 'Download Season' feature. Finally available on iOS after being rolled out on Android years ago, this new capability allows users to download entire seasons of shows with just one tap.
On January 31, 2025, Netflix made this feature live after listening to feedback from its iOS users, who had found the previous process of downloading episodes one-by-one frustrating. "We’ve heard downloading episodes one-by-one has been a pain point for iOS members—something we’re now addressing with this rollout," shared a Netflix spokesperson reported by Variety. This simple but effective addition reflects Netflix's commitment to improving user experience, especially for those who often find themselves traveling or dealing with unreliable internet access.
The button is conveniently located next to the share option on the show's display page, making it extremely easy to use. Users just need to navigate to the desired series, tap the 'Download Season' button, and all episodes get queued for download immediately. This saves time and allows viewers to focus on packing their bags or preparing for travel instead of waiting for each episode to download individually.
Lifehacker notes the practicality of having the entire season downloaded for uninterrupted viewing during long flights or cross-country road trips. It helps users avoid hefty mobile data charges by allowing them to download via Wi-Fi at home, making binge-watching on the go possible without stress. The platform lets you manage your downloads with ease; users can find all their downloaded content simply by heading to the 'My Netflix' section of the app.
Netflix has also accounted for varying subscription levels. For those on ad-free plans, users can store up to 100 active downloads on their devices. Conversely, those on ad-supported plans will have to cap their downloads at 15 per month, which could lead to quickly hitting the download limit if downloading popular series.
For those wondering about the specifics of downloading seasons, each show will indicate how many episodes can be downloaded at once. For series with multiple seasons, the button will read 'Download Season [number].' If shows have fewer seasons, it'll simply state the number of episodes available. Either way, the instructions are straightforward, catering to users who may not be as tech-savvy.
To celebrate the new feature, Netflix revealed its five most downloaded shows of all time, which includes thumping titles like Squid Game Season 1, Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, and the highly anticipated Squid Game Season 2. The rollout of the 'Download Season' button not only aligns with Netflix’s goal of improving user satisfaction but also enhances the overall viewing experience for its subscribers.
Reflecting on this development, many users are excited about no longer having to tap through each episode one by one. The easing of this downloading process signifies Netflix’s responsiveness to user demands and reaffirms their commitment to customer satisfaction. Now more than ever, whether it’s packing for vacation or preparing for a binge-watching marathon, Netflix is ensuring access to entertainment is easy and hassle-free.
This update follows Netflix's recent price changes across subscription tiers, which saw the ad-supported Standard plan increase from $6.99 to $7.99, among other adjustments. While these modifications may raise eyebrows, the introduction of enhancements like the 'Download Season' feature showcases Netflix’s efforts to retain subscriber loyalty through improved features.
With more users opting to enjoy shows offline, the timing of this launch could not have been more perfect. The 'Download Season' option stands to revolutionize how iPhone and iPad users interact with Netflix, ensuring their favorite series are always at their fingertips, ready to watch regardless of internet connectivity.