Netflix is ​​taking a bold new step into … a linear television channel

Netflix is ​​testing a new linear content channel, dubbed Netflix Direct, which will offer subscribers real-time scheduled programming for the first time. According to IndieWire, Netflix is ​​experimenting with a new service that will pull content from the streaming giant’s existing library and present it. in a straightforward, scheduled format for those subscribers who like the idea of ​​accessing a pre-programmed feed that “doesn’t require them to choose what to watch,” similar to standard broadcasts and cable TV channels.

The report notes that Netflix Direct had a soft launch in France on November 5, with a broader launch of the service expected across the country next month. Netflix said it chose this position to test the company’s first linear channel first due to “mainstream TV consumption.” [in France]. “

“Whether you are lacking inspiration or are discovering Netflix for the first time, you could let yourself be guided for the first time without having to choose a particular title and be surprised by the diversity of Netflix’s library,” Netflix said in a statement that announces the new service, which is only available on the web version of the streaming platform for selected subscribers in France.

This isn’t the first time Netflix has experimented with its entertainment offerings. In September, the company unveiled a promotion that offered a selection of Netflix original movies and TV show episodes for free to non-subscribers. The “Watch Free” page invited users to try some of the platform’s content without the need for a subscription, presumably in an attempt to attract new members.

Once users are signed up, however, Netflix doesn’t seem to face too much trouble trying to keep viewers’ interest, as a recent report revealed that the company’s investment in anime had gone particularly well for them in terms. of spectators. In fact, Netflix has announced plans to produce even more anime content after noticing a tremendous uptake in anime streaming on the platform over the past year.

With dozens of new shows each season and a robust back catalog that has yet to be fully explored, anime has quickly become one of the most popular content categories in the streaming market. For more information on this change in streaming, read all about why we think anime is the next frontier of streaming and what it could mean for the future of streaming services.

Adele Ankers is a freelance entertainment journalist. You can contact her Twitter.