Netflix
How do you go about a common streaming evening with friends?
You can also watch Netflix with friends who are currently in another location.
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Amazon Prime Video and Disney + offer the opportunity to watch films online with friends. Netflix users have to take a detour.
During the corona pandemic, friends often only have the option of watching films or series together over the Internet – for example using the “Watch Party” function of Amazon Prime Video or “GroupWatch” at Disney +. Netflix users get at the streaming giant unfortunately no in-house possibility to stream the content online together. But there are small detours to be able to achieve this. Basically, each participant needs their own account. Then users can enjoy a film synchronously, pause playback as desired, chat on the side and more.
Thanks to browser extension
Groups that are not in the same place can watch content together on Netflix if they install browser extensions or use appropriate tools beforehand. Two alternatives in particular are common: “Teleparty” and “StreamParty”. The former became known as the “Netflix Party” and is used in Google’s Chrome browser and via Microsoft Edge. “StreamParty” can be used by users in Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. Both variants are easy to use:
With “Teleparty” users must first install the extension. Then a “TP” button should appear next to the address line of the browser. Now the user logs in to Netflix, selects a film or series and starts the video. After clicking on the button and on “Start Party”, users receive a link with which they can then invite friends who have also installed the extension. If they open the link, they will be redirected to Netflix. After clicking the button, you should then automatically join the party. In addition to Netflix, content from Disney + and the US offerings Hulu and HBO are also supported.
For “StreamParty” users need the extension and an account, which is basically free. The providers Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney +, Joyn and YouTube are currently supported here. After calling up, users select one of the providers and then start a video in the window that now appears. The party can then be set to either public or private. Now assign a name and users can send a link to their friends here as well. With a free membership, users can only use “StreamParty” for up to four hours a month and with up to three friends in private groups. For an unlimited time and additional participants, at least four euros per month or nine euros for three months are due.