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Netflix took a cue from traditional television by launching its own linear channel in France.
The service paved the way for streaming and binge-watching practices, which have revolutionized the way people consume content around the world, making this move somewhat surprising.
Netflix Direct is a subscriber-only channel that broadcasts the content produced on the platform in a linear format, much like a typical broadcaster.
The decision to launch it exclusively in France was made after analyzing the viewing habits of users in that country, many of whom preferred scheduled programming rather than having to choose what to watch for themselves.
Since Netflix has exploded in popularity, users have joked that they spend more time scrolling through its vast catalog than they actually do watching what’s on offer.
“Maybe you’re not in the mood to decide, or you’re new and getting your bearings, or you just want to be surprised by something new and different,” Netflix said in a statement.
Netflix Direct is already available in parts of France and will expand to other regions next month, but it’s unclear whether the channel could make the leap to other territories.
RadioTimes.com reached out to Netflix for comment.
This isn’t the first time Netflix has experimented with how it distributes its content as the platform has previously tried a shuffle button, which plays a random movie or TV show when selected.
Netflix Direct will certainly have no shortage of programming to draw from, as the service’s backlog of shows kept it quiet comfortably during the coronavirus pandemic.
Recent hits include Ryan Murphy’s prequel One Flew Over Ratched Cuckoo’s Nest, chess drama The Queen’s Gambit and the spooky sequel The Haunting of Bly Manor.
Looking for something to watch? Check out our guide to the best TV series on Netflix and the best movies on Netflix, visit our TV guide or discover the new TV shows coming in 2020.
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