Netflix is using the vast content library at its disposal in a unique way. The streaming giant has gone deeper into short video format with a new mobile feature for its subscribers. Called Fast Laughs, it features clips from different shows and specials. The feel one gets is that of viewing videos on TikTok.
The feature is available within the Netflix app and if a show or film interests the subscriber, it can be saved to the watch-later list. The catch is that the feature is available for iOS device owners in select countries, like the US, the UK and Canada.
“We’re always looking for new ways to entertain and make discovery easier for members,” Patrick Flemming, director of product innovation at Netflix, said, adding that Fast Laughs is a “new full-screen feed of funny clips from a wide variety of Netflix titles, ranging from films and series to our deep bench of stand-up specials”.
There’s more to the feature: Users can share clips on other platforms, including WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter, which will make followers and friends more interested in the streaming platform.
The company is planning to expand the feature to Android phones in the coming months. It’s currently only available for adult customers, since not all the clips are appropriate for children.
The announcement comes soon after a record-setting year for Netflix, with pandemic lockdowns helping push subscribers past 200 million.