Netflix plans to add vertical videos to its mobile app by the end of the month

It's 2026, and vertical videos are everywhere. TikTok, YouTube Shorts, Instagram reels, you name it. There is a huge debate over whether short-form vertical videos are replacing long-form videos on platforms like YouTube. Well, adding fuel to the fire, Netflix is now planning to introduce vertical videos to its mobile app.

In Netflix's Q1 2026 shareholders' letter, Netflix announced that it is planning a redesign of its mobile app to add vertical videos, and that the feature will be made available "at the end of the month". The vertical videos will have their own "discovery feed", which we imagine would be a limitless scrolling feed much like we see on TikTok and Instagram Reels.

Netflix is apparently taking this step in response to other streaming services, such as Disney+ and Peacock, as well as to compete with established giants in the space, such as TikTok and YouTube Shorts. Netflix is aiming to replicate YouTube's success with vertical videos, which are very popular among younger viewers and serve as a funnel to its long-form content.

Another interesting part of Netflix's announcement was its mention of generative AI. Netflix claims to use Generative AI to optimize user recommendations and increase time spent on the app. Of course, this can be a red flag to users who don't particularly enjoy AI content, but nowhere in the announcement does Netflix say it will promote "AI slop" on its feed.

2

On the flip side, it should be noted that Netflix recently acquired Ben Affleck's "InterPositive", a company that develops AI-powered tools for filmmakers. Whether or not this plays a role in Netflix's use of Gen AI remains to be seen. It must be said that Netflix is under heavy scrutiny from users after raising prices once again, and any misstep could prompt users to turn away from the streaming platform.

Netflix reported a 16% YoY (year-over-year) revenue growth in its Q1 2026 round-up for shareholders. This is a major turning point for Netflix, as Co-Founder Reed Hastings recently stepped down as Chairman. It will be interesting to see how Netflix pivots after Hastings' departure, and whether users will resonate with their new AI-powered direction.