Netflix has rolled out its new "Season Download" feature for iPhone and iPad users, simplifying the process of binge-watching by allowing subscribers to download entire seasons of their favorite shows with just one tap. Previously available only to Android users, this feature aims to draw more users to their streaming platform, enabling seamless offline viewing for travelers and fans alike.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the new functionality was announced on January 30, 2025, giving iOS and iPadOS users the freedom to download full seasons directly from the show's display page, right next to the Share button. While Netflix subscribers previously had to download episodes one by one—a process often seen as tedious—the season download option streamlines the experience, making it much more efficient.
“Whether you’re gearing up for a long flight and ready to ... this feature has you covered with just the click of a button,” stated a Netflix spokesperson, emphasizing the convenience awaiting users. With many people constantly on the move, being able to download several episodes at once enhances their viewing options, whether it’s for commutes, vacations, or simply relaxing without the internet.
Netflix introduced offline viewing back in 2016, and since then, it has made several upgrades to the functionality. One notable improvement has been the Smart Downloads feature, which automatically deletes watched episodes and replaces them with the next available installment. This guarantees users not only access to their favorite content but also ensures they don’t run out of entertainment during their offline periods.
Accompanying the announcement of the downloading feature was Netflix’s latest report on the most popular shows on the platform. Top of the list are the first and second seasons of the groundbreaking series “Squid Game,” as well as hits like “Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story,” “One Piece,” and “Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story.” These titles not only signify Netflix's success but also highlight what viewers are eager to download and watch offline.
Interestingly, this update coincides with Netflix's recent price hikes affecting its subscribers. With the increasing cost of streaming services, Netflix has raised its premium ad-free plan to $24.99 per month; the standard ad-free plan now costs $17.99, and its ad-supported tier has been increased to $7.99. There are also additional charges for users wanting to add extra members to their ad-free plans, which now cost $8.99 monthly, compared to $6.99 for ad-supported plans.
Despite these price increases, Netflix continues to thrive with approximately 301.62 million subscribers globally. The service added an impressive 18.9 million new subscribers during the fourth quarter of 2024 alone, signaling strong demand and engagement with its content offerings. The question is, will these new features and the rising prices influence subscriber retention and attraction moving forward?
Given the changing dynamics of streaming services, with competition heating up from various platforms, innovations like the Season Download feature are likely aimed at strengthening Netflix’s position as the leader in the industry. By providing customers with more options for how and when they consume content, Netflix is ensuring it keeps its hold on the viewing habits of millions worldwide.
Overall, the introduction of the "Season Download" feature marks yet another step forward for Netflix as it strives to keep pace with user expectations and preferences, all the more relevant as the streaming environment evolves.