Netflix’s tremendous success over the years is not only a result of the diverse range of content it offers but also its availability across platforms and regions. You can log into multiple devices using your Netflix account and even enjoy watching content on the go with the streaming giant’s mobile apps. One strange exclusion to this list is Apple’s MacBook range. While you can watch Netflix on your MacBook, you are limited to the web version of the platform. If you’re hell-bent on getting the app, here are the best 2 ways to download and install Netflix on your MacBook.
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In This Article
Installing Netflix on MacBook: What are your options?
If you’re reading this article, you’ve probably realised that there is no official way to download the Netflix app for MacBook. The reason behind this bizarre decision remains a mystery. Many people believe that this is due to the streaming giant’s direct rivalry with Apple TV. Earlier, Netflix killed support for AirPlay, lending more credence to this theory. Netflix still maintains this was done due to ‘technical limitations’.
There are still some interesting caveats that you can take advantage of to get Netflix on your Apple laptop. If you own a MacBook that runs macOS Big Sur 11.2.3 or earlier, you can sideload the iOS version of Netflix from the App Store. The only catch is that this method may not work for long, since the app developers are constantly phasing out old versions of apps.
Intel-based MacBook users also have the option of installing Netflix from the Microsoft Store after installing the Windows OS using Boot Camp Assistant. But this method may seem excessive to folks who don’t want to install an entire OS just for one app. If you’re looking for simple and routine methods to install Netflix on your MacBook, keep reading along.
Install the Netflix web app using Google Chrome
Since you can’t install the official Netflix app on your MacBook, your next best option is to create an app icon for its website on your laptop’s home screen. Clicking on this shortcut will take you to the website. Here’s how you can do it.
Step 1: Launch the Chrome browser on your MacBook and go to the official Netflix website.
Step 2: Hit the ellipses at the top right corner of the screen.
Step 3: Take your cursor to More Tools and select Create Shortcut.
Step 4: Give the web app a name and hit Create.
Step 5: Go back to the home screen. You will find the icon for the web app on the dock.
Install the Netflix web app using Microsoft Edge
Step 1: Launch Microsoft Edge on your MacBook and go to the official Netflix website.
Step 2: Click on the ellipses at the top right corner of the screen.
Step 3: Move the cursor to Apps and click on Install This Site as an App.
Step 4: Give the web app a name and click on Create.
The web app can accessed from the dock on the home screen.
Use PlayCover to run Netflix on your MacBook
PlayCover is a brilliant open-source app to run iOS apps and games on your MacBook. Here’s how you can use it to install Netflix.
Step 1: Download PlayCover from GitHub.
Step 2: Move the downloaded file to the Applications folder and install it on your MacBook.
Step 3: Download the decrypted IPA version of Netflix using ARM Converter or Decrypt.
Step 4: Launch PlayCover and click on Import IPA.
Step 5: Select the file you just downloaded.
Step 6: PlayCover will install Netflix on your MacBook.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a way to download and install Netflix on my MacBook?
While there is no official way to download the Netflix app on a MacBook, you can install a web app (a home screen shortcut to the website) for the OTT using Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge.
Can I install the iOS version of the Netflix app on my MacBook?
MacBooks running macOS Big Sur 11.2.3 or older can install the iOS Netflix app from the App Store. You can also use PlayCover to install the smartphone app for Netflix on your laptop.
Can I use AirPlay to watch Netflix on my MacBook?
Earlier this year, Netflix pulled its support for AirPlay. This means you cannot use it to mirror the Netflix content from your iPhone or iPad to your TV.
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Conclusion
These are the top 3 ways to download and install the Netflix app on your MacBook. Since there is virtually no difference between Netflix’s website and computer app, you won’t be missing out on anything by creating its web app on your Mac. If you are familiar with any other methods of running Netflix on your MacBook, let us know in the comments!
