Netflix Goes Vertical With More Phone-First Content in 2026

Netflix is preparing to broaden its vertical video experience on mobile devices, according to co-CEO Greg Peters, who shared the update during the company’s latest earnings call.

The feature, which is currently in testing, presents short, vertical clips pulled from Netflix movies and TV series within the mobile app. Later this year, the company plans to introduce additional vertical content formats, including excerpts from video podcasts that are being added to the broader Netflix platform.

“You’ll see us add more clips linked to new content formats, including video podcasts, as they roll out on the platform,” Peters said. “Key elements from those formats will be folded into the vertical video feed as well.”

The move reflects Netflix’s growing view of social media platforms as direct competitors for audience attention. During the same call, co-CEO Ted Sarandos acknowledged that apps like Instagram are increasingly competing with traditional television and streaming for viewer time.

“TV isn’t what it used to be,” Sarandos said. “Entertainment today spans many platforms, with premium content and major events appearing everywhere—including social media.”

To better engage younger audiences, especially Gen Z users, Netflix is leaning further into short-form, mobile-first content. The vertical feed is expected to highlight moments from live programming such as WWE Raw, competition shows like Star Search, and standout scenes from popular Netflix originals.

Vertical video has become a major focus across the entertainment industry, fueled by mobile viewing habits and the global popularity of short-form content. As a result, more streaming services are likely to adopt similar formats in the near future.

Peters also confirmed that Netflix plans to update its mobile interface to support this broader shift.

“We expect to roll this out later in 2026,” he said. “This will give us a foundation to keep experimenting, refining, and improving the experience over time.”“You’ll see us add more clips linked to new content formats, including video podcasts, as they roll out on the platform,” Peters said. “Key elements from those formats will be folded into the vertical video feed as well.”
“You’ll see us add more clips linked to new content formats, including video podcasts, as they roll out on the platform,” Peters said. “Key elements from those formats will be folded into the vertical video feed as well.”