(More on how to change this setting below.) By default, the app will only download anything when you're connected to a Wi-Fi network. When you find a show or movie you want to keep on your device to watch at any time, tap the Download button next to each listing and the app will take care of the rest. If you spend a lot of time in the Netflix app on your phone or tablet, then you've likely seen the download option when browsing the Netflix catalogue, along with the Downloads tab at the bottom of the screen. How to download Netflix movies and shows to your iPhone or Android phone Below I'll walk you through how to download on demand, as well as outline what you need to know about Smart Downloads and Downloads for You.Äownloading shows on demand has never been easier. Now that there are three different methods to downloading Netflix shows and movies on your phone, it can get a little confusing. According to Netflix, downloading is available on Android devices running Android 4.4.2 and up, as well as iPhones running iOS 9.0 or later. Netflix can already delete stuff you've already watched, and download new episodes on its own thanks to its Smart Downloads feature.
It's a new twist on the ability to download and store episodes and movies on your phone in order to save on your cellular data plan or watch offline if your data connection is spotty, or nonexistent (for example, if you want to watch a show on a long road trip). Netflix is so confident it can guess which show or movie you'll like that the company recently announced Downloads for You, a new feature for Android users that will preemptively download a show you've never watched to your phone.