Netflix is testing a new gamified streaming experience for children, the company confirmed in a statement provided to Variety this morning. The new feature lets kids collect "patches" for watching episodes of certain shows.

Netflix says the patches, which have been available for a few weeks for some users, are designed to allow for a more interactive experience for children.

netflixbadges

"We are testing a new feature on select kids titles that introduces collectible items for a more interactive experience and to expand the storytelling world for the show. We learn by testing and this feature may or may not become part of the Netflix experience."

Netflix shows that are part of the test are marked with red locks for Netflix users who have been selected to be part of the test. Eligible shows include "A Series of Unfortunate Events," "Trolls," "Troll Hunters," Fuller House," and more.

At the current time, it does not appear that collecting patches unlocks any additional content or rewards on Netflix.

Netflix says that this feature is still in testing and that it might not become part of the Netflix experience if the testing proves unsuccessful or unpopular with users.

Tag: Netflix

Top Rated Comments

kajoob Avatar
101 months ago
You need to be able to disable that ****. I don’t want Netflix trying to turn my kids into tv fiends just because they’re trying to collect a stupid badge. Between this, the stupid auto playing trailers that you can’t stop, and the raised prices, Netflix is really irrating me.
Score: 20 Votes (Like | Disagree)
UltimateSyn Avatar
101 months ago
What they said:
“Netflix says the patches, which have been available for a few weeks for some users, are designed to allow for a more interactive experience for children.”

What they meant:
“Netflix says the patches, which have been available for a few weeks for some users, are designed to allow kids to quickly become more addicted to TV programming than they already are.”
Score: 12 Votes (Like | Disagree)
pdoobs Avatar
101 months ago
I feel like Netflix is just daring me to cancel my subscription with these price increases and stupid programming decision.
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
fairuz Avatar
101 months ago
Just seems weird. I mean is it not enough to have shows to watch?
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Scottsoapbox Avatar
101 months ago
You need to be able to disable that ****. I don’t want Netflix trying to turn my kids into tv fiends just because they’re trying to collect a stupid badge. Between this, the stupid auto playing trailers that you can’t stop, and the raised prices, Netflix is really irrating me.
Exactly this. Preach it my brother!
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
NT1440 Avatar
101 months ago
So basically they’re handing out digital meth to kids to get them addicted to binging media at the youngest age possible.

What a world.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)