A software application designed to control Netflix playback and navigation on various devices, such as smart TVs, streaming media players, and gaming consoles, from a smartphone or tablet. These applications mimic the functionality of a physical remote control, offering functionalities like play, pause, rewind, fast forward, and volume adjustment. An example includes using a smartphone application to select a movie on a smart TV that is connected to a Netflix account.
The utility of such applications stems from convenience and enhanced user experience. They provide an alternative control method when a physical remote is unavailable, lost, or malfunctioning. Furthermore, some applications offer advanced features not found on standard remote controls, such as keyboard input for easier searching and voice control capabilities. Historically, the need for these applications arose with the increasing popularity of streaming services and the desire for more versatile and accessible control options.