14 DAY TRIAL // Netflix is making a major change in the way people interact with content by replacing the 5-star system with like/dislike buttons.
Much like YouTube did a few years back, Netflix is switching its rating system, ditching the "old" five stars, The Verge reports.
Todd Yellin, Netflix's Vice president of product, said in a press briefing that the old system feels very "yesterday." Furthermore, the new thumbs up and down system isn't exactly new for the platform, as it has been in testing for more than a decade. The company says that people are a lot more likely to tap on like or dislike than they are to choose a number of starts. In fact, there were 200% more ratings offered via the simpler systems.
Since Netflix's goal is to get more opinions from users, this seems like the way to go. After all, more data means they can offer better recommendations to users, which means you'll spend more time streaming content.
How likely are you to watch a show?
Netflix is also introducing a new feature they've been testing for a while - the percentage match. The service will basically show a number to determine how likely you are to enjoy a particular show based on other content you've watched and rated. The company says it will not limit the matches to regional interests because it has discovered people don't have any issues watching shows from other markets. It will, however, make sure it takes into account what other users with similar viewing habits enjoy, regardless if they're your neighbors or live across the globe.
Netflix says the new rating system will start rolling out globally next month. Some users have already taken to the Internet to complain about the switch, but then again, there were many complaints when YouTube turned to thumbs up/down too.