Netflix Inc is experimenting with a feature that lets viewers watch movies at up to 1.5 times the usual speed, testing an approach that has become popular with podcasts and YouTube clips.<\/p>\n
The option is available on Android mobile devices, but Netflix cautioned that it may not become a permanent feature. \u201cWe\u2019re always experimenting with new ways to help members use Netflix,\u201d the company said in a statement Monday.<\/p>\n
The Android Police website previously reported on the test.<\/p>\n
Other forms of media have already embraced faster playback speed. YouTube lets viewers watch clips at up to 2 times the normal rate, as does Apple\u2019s podcast app. The feature lets podcast listeners gobble up lengthy series in half the time – with the side effect of chipmunk-sounding voices. Likewise, a YouTube user can watch a 10-minute cooking video in five or six minutes.<\/p>\n
But the approach is more controversial when it comes to videos that people consider art. Netflix has developed a reputation for challenging the norms of entertainment, often in ways that offend more tradition-bound viewers.<\/p>\n
The company has offended cinephiles by pushing for movies to be released at home at the same time they appear in theaters and allowing viewers to skip opening credits.<\/p>\n
Director Judd Apatow objected to the move on Monday, telling Netflix he would call \u201cevery director and show creator on Earth to fight you on this.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe give you nice things,\u201d he said on Twitter. \u201cLeave them as they were intended to be seen.\u201d<\/p>\n