:

NETFLIX PIVOTS TO VERTICAL VIDEO IN MOBILE REDESIGN

INDUSTRY DESK1 MIN READ
FRI, APR 17, 2026

Netflix is launching a redesigned mobile app featuring a vertical video feed by the end of April. The update aims to simplify content discovery and reflect the company's expanding entertainment portfolio.

The redesign marks Netflix's recognition that entertainment consumption patterns are shifting across devices. In its Q1 2026 earnings letter, the company noted that the distinction between TV and mobile viewing is increasingly blurred. The vertical feed format aligns with how users naturally hold smartphones and mirrors the interface style popularized by TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. This strategic shift suggests Netflix sees short-form vertical content as central to future growth. The move comes as Netflix expands beyond traditional scripted series and films into video podcasts and other content formats. The company indicated the new interface will give members more flexibility in how and when they engage with content. Analysts view Netflix's growth trajectory positively despite Q2 forecasts falling short of expectations. The company's full-year outlook reinforces confidence in its expansion strategy across entertainment categories and distribution formats.

■ MORE FROM THE BIG TECH DESK

S&P Global downgraded Oracle's credit rating to BBB-, one notch above junk status, citing OpenAI as a "key credit risk." OpenAI represents roughly half of Oracle's $638 billion in contractual obligations.

1H AGOAI Desk

Attorney Mark Lanier secured a major courtroom victory against tech giants Meta and Google, proving the companies deliberately created "addiction machines" that harm mental health. The case centered on young plaintiff Kaley and her experience with social media platforms.

1H AGOIndustry Desk

Microsoft, Amazon and Google's combined carbon emissions jumped nearly 20% in the past year, reaching 119 million metric tonnes of CO₂ equivalent—roughly a third of France's total output. The spike is driven primarily by rapid datacentre construction.

6H AGOIndustry Desk

The European Commission plans to introduce new digital regulations by year-end to protect consumers from deceptive online spending practices. EU Justice Commissioner Michael McGrath announced the initiative as part of broader efforts to strengthen social media safeguards.

8H AGOAI Desk

■ SUBSCRIBE TO THE DAILY BRIEF

ONE EMAIL, 5 STORIES, 06:00 UTC. UNSUBSCRIBE ANYTIME.