The best movie watching is only possible when enjoying it with friends. In fact, it is all about sharing laughs and reactions together. But what if you are separated by several miles? How can you enjoy your Netflix watch party with friends even when they are miles apart?
Are you wondering how to watch Netflix on a projector from an iPhone without the dreaded black screen, or asking why I can't watch Netflix on a projector even when everything seems plugged in right?
This post is just for you. We will explore where you can watch Netflix shows, and introduce the best options to watch Netflix shows together, whether you are together or away from one another.
Netflix Supported Device: Official List
As per the documentation available on Netflix itself, you can watch Netflix on a wide range of devices. These can include smart TV, phone, tablet, streaming player, game consoles, or computers. As long as Netflix offers support through a browser or app, there is nothing that can stop you from watching Netflix.
Here is the list of supported devices that help you stream Netflix:
1. Smart TVs: You can watch Netflix on several smart TV brands. Some good examples are LG, Samsung, Sony, Vizio, Hisense, Panasonic, Philips, Sharp, TCL, and Vestel.
2. Streaming devices: A representative list of streaming devices and consoles are Amazon Fire TV/Stick, Apple TV, and Chromecast, to name a few.
3. Mobile devices and tablets: Enjoy Netflix on Android and iOS smartphones and tablets. A few of these options include Android phones and tablets, iPhones and iPads, Amazon Fire Tablet, and Windows tablets.
4. Computers: Netflix is available on Mac, Windows, or Chromebook computers. You can also use supported browsers on the relevant devices to watch Netflix.
5. Gaming consoles and AR/VR devices: The streaming services supporting the Netflix service include Sony PlayStation consoles, Microsoft Xbox consoles, Apple Vision Pro, and Meta Quest headsets.
Some cable TV service providers also support Netflix. However, the default download functionality is available only on mobile devices. You can use most of these devices for a seamless and exciting Netflix party.
Also, check how to watch Netflix on a projector from an iPhone.
How to Do a Watch Party on Netflix?
Well, you can use several methods and options to indulge in a Watch party on Netflix in several ways.
Method 1 - Screencast Netflix Shows from Your Phone (to Smart TVs or Projectors)
Using the screencast feature is one simple way to enjoy Netflix movies and shows with your friends. In fact, the method offers you a simple and easier option to watch Netflix on a bigger screen without the need for any additional equipment. Of course, there are times when you may come across issues like DRM limitations.
Using Android devices
Android devices offer an excellent option to cast your Netflix content on a bigger screen. Here are the steps involved:
- Make sure that both devices are on the same WiFi network.
- Launch the Netflix app on your Android device
- Tap the cast icon on the screen. You should find it in the top right corner.
- Select your Chromecast device, Android TV, or supported TV.
- Start playing the show on your device, and it will mirror on your TV.
Using iOS devices
The steps used on an iOS device are almost similar but slightly different:
- Swipe down on your screen to access the Control Center
- Tap on Screen Mirroring.
- Choose your AirPlay-compatible TV
- Launch Netflix on your device and watch it on your TV.
Screencasting might be the best option to watch Netflix shows with your friends. You don't need to download any programs or follow complex
The screencast option to watch Netflix shows on a big screen has its limits:
- You may come across a black screen due to DRM protection protocols.
- The method may not work with some HDMI adapters, AirPlay, and some screen mirroring software.
- In the case of iOS devices, you may witness a black screen with only the audio playing.
Therefore, the method is best suited for:
- Chromecast-enabled TVs or displays.
- Situations where DRM isn’t blocking visual output.
DO NOT use it when:
- You are using a projector through iPhone or Android.
- If you are using third-party screen mirroring tools.
Method 2 - Stream Netflix on Discord (Without Black Screen)
Discord has been an excellent means to watch Netflix with friends. The best part is that the method does not come with any black screen issues. In fact, Discord is widely used by friends to stay connected online. Streaming Netflix on Discord allows a group to watch in sync while chatting via text or voice.
Here is how to stream Netflix on Discord:
- Install Discord on your device and sign in to your account. If you do not have an account, create one.
- Create a new server on Discord. You can also select the existing server.
- Open Netflix on a browser. Find the movie or show that you want to watch together with your friends.
- Add Netflix as a game on Discord. To do this, go to Activity Settings and Select Registered Games. Click on the Add it option and select the browser tab with Netflix open.
- On the main Discord screen, join the server that you want to stream Netflix on.
- Set up the stream by clicking on the monitor icon at the bottom left corner.
- You should find the Screen Share option on the screen. Choose the desired channel and frame rate.
- Once everything has been configured, click on Go Live.
That does it. Begin playing a Netflix video, and it will be streamed on Discord. All your friends on the same server will begin watching the content together.
However, the method may have a few issues. There are a few threads on Reddit where users have shared fixes to these problems:
Using browser windows and disabling hardware acceleration can help you fix the black screen when streaming on Discord. You can simply disable the option Use hardware acceleration when available in Chrome settings. It may be a good idea to turn off hardware acceleration in Discord as well.
All in all, the method is best suited for:
- Virtual Netflix parties.
- Sharing a show with friends in real time.
DO NOT use it when:
- People with limited upload speeds.
- Viewers are unfamiliar with Discord's interface.
Method 3 - Use KeepStreams for Netflix to Bypass DRM
Another excellent option should be to download the Netflix shows on your device and then share them through any other method available to you. The benefit of using a downloader is that it will help you bypass the DRM protection from the videos.
One downloader that I found quite helpful in this context is KeepStreams for Netflix. It offers a robust download experience with advanced properties. A seamless download experience with an easy-to-use interface makes the tool stand out.
So, how to do a Netflix watch party exactly with KeepStreams? Here are the detailed steps:
Download the tool from the official website. KeepStreams is available on Windows and Mac. Choose a free trial so that you can practice the features before opting for a subscription plan.
From among the different streaming services supported, choose Netflix. Sign in to your Netflix account. You can also choose to create a new account.
Look for the show or shows that you want to download. It would bring up the download options for configuring the download parameters. These would include the options such as video resolution, audio tracks, and subtitle retention.
Click on Download Now, and the video will be downloaded instantly to your device. You can check the download progress from within the tool.
Once the video is downloaded, you can stream it seamlessly and watch it together with your friends, without worrying about a black screen, buffering, DRM, compatibility, or other annoying problems.
To sum up, KeepStreams is best suited for:
- Watching Netflix on projectors, older tablets, or devices without Netflix support.
- Saving episodes before they expire or are removed.
- Families wanting to share content offline.
Not ideal for:
- Users who don’t have access to a PC or laptop (Windows/macOS required).
Method 4 - Use Teleparty (Netflix Party Extension) to Watch Online Together
Previously known as Netflix Party, Teleparty is definitely an excellent option that you will find quite interesting. It is a Netflix party extension available on Chrome and Firefox.
It allows you to achieve real-time synced streaming with chat, which is ideal for remote friends or family. On an iPhone, you may not be able to run Teleparty directly, but you can use supported browsers.
Here is how you can use Teleparty to watch Netflix shows with friends:
- Install the Teleparty extension on your browser on your device. Pin it for easy access.
- Choose a video on Netflix.
- While the video is playing, click on TP-Link to get the link to your party.
- Share the link to your party. You can share the link through email or any other means.
- Let your friends join your party and begin watching your shows together.
Seems like a piece of cake, right? However, don't forget that every method comes with its own pros and cons.
The method comes with a few limitations, though:
- All participants must have an active subscription.
- It cannot be used to play expired or region-locked content.
- Requires an active internet connection.
Therefore, it's best suited for:
- Remote groups.
- Tech-savvy users who like browser-based tools.
NOT suited for:
- Offline viewing or projector use.
- Group members without Netflix subscriptions.
Comparison of Different Methods for Netflix Watch Party
The table below should give you an idea of the best features offered by each of these methods.
Method | Works Offline | Bypasses DRM | Ideal For | Limitations |
Screencast | ❌ | ❌ | Smart TVs | Black screen on many projectors |
Discord | ❌ | ✅ | Online parties, tech-savvy users | Black screen if not configured properly |
KeepStreams | ✅ | ✅ | Projectors, offline, Discord | Requires PC/Mac |
Teleparty | ❌ | ❌ | Remote friends with subscriptions | Online only; all users need accounts |
As mentioned above, every tool has pros and cons; the availability depends on your demands. Hope this information can help you choose the best method to enjoy a Netflix party.
FAQs
Q1. Is it legal to do a watch party on Netflix?
A1. Yes, if done via tools like Teleparty, and all users have their own subscriptions. You should avoid sharing credentials and distributing downloaded content.
Q2. Can I watch Netflix on an Amazon Fire Tablet?
A2. Yes, most Amazon Fire tablets (especially post-2018) support Netflix. If you face errors:
- Update Fire OS to version 7+.
- Reinstall Netflix from the Amazon App Store.
- Use this guide for compatibility details.
Q3. Why can't I watch Netflix on a projector?
A3. The black screen issue is due to Netflix’s DRM preventing video output via screen mirroring or HDMI. You can use the following fixes -
- Use KeepStreams to play DRM-free files.
- Stream via Discord or supported HDMI devices.
Conclusion
Whether you're planning a cozy movie night or a group binge session, Netflix Watch Party tools offer flexibility, but not every method is equal. If you're tired of asking if you can stream Netflix on Discord or "Why can't I watch Netflix on a projector," the solution often lies in removing DRM and downloading your favorite shows using tools like KeepStreams for Netflix.
From Netflix party extensions like Teleparty to advanced tools that let you watch Netflix on Amazon Fire tablets, your options are endless. Just pick the method that suits your device and setting, and you’re all set for a binge-worthy session.