Recently, I created my own Netflix account.
And before I could watch, I had to install the Netflix app.
But there was something strange happening…
I couldn’t find Netflix on the Google Play Store.
Luckily there are surprisingly easy fixes.
Let me share them with you.
Keep reading to find out:
- 7 easy fixes to install Netflix.
- 4 causes why Netflix is not on Play Store.
- Why your Android device needs to be Play Protect certified.
- 2 ways of using Netflix without installing the app from the Play Store.
- And lots more…
Netflix not on Play Store – causes
Netflix is not on Play Store because your device isn’t compatible with the latest app version. It can also be due to an active parental control setting, or your gadget cache memory needs to be cleared. Other reasons could be that your device is rooted or didn’t pass the Play Protect certification.
Netflix not on Play Store – 7 ways to fix it
#1: Restart your device
Let’s start by simply restarting your device.
Here’s 3 steps on how to do it on an Android device:
- Push and hold the power button for 10-20 seconds.
- Wait until it restarts.
- If prompted, use the PIN to unlock your device.
Then go to the Google Play Store, search for the Netflix app, and install it.
Pro tip: Make sure you install the Netflix app in the device’s internal memory instead of the SD card.
If you still don’t see the Netflix app, then…
#2: Check if your device is compatible with Netflix
Netflix updates from time to time to make app improvements.
This way the app is less buggy, better secured, and runs smoother on the latest devices.
But if you have an older device, you might not be able to access these app updates.
There could be several reasons for this.
But most of the time, the support for these older devices simply costs too much.
So, checking if your device is still compatible with the Netflix app is important.
The current version of Netflix on the Google Play Store works with devices that have Android 7 or later.
But if you have an earlier Android version or can’t find Netflix on the Play Store, then…
Install an older version of the Netflix app.
You can install an older version of the Netflix app without needing Google Play Store.
Here’s how to do it in 9 simple steps:
- Go to Settings.
- Navigate to Security.
- Tap the box: Unknown Sources: Allow installation of apps from sources other than the Play Store.
- Select OK to confirm.
- Look up “Netflix Android app APK” on your browser.
- Download a compatible Netflix APK version for your device from credible sites.
Note: Take note of what Netflix app versions still work with your Android device system to know what to select and install.
- Search for the file in your Downloads.
- Once you find the APK file, press it. Wait for it to install on your device.
- Go back to the home screen and open the Netflix app.
Then you can now log in with your account credentials and try it out.
#3 Turn off parental control
If you activated the parental control mode, the Netflix app can be hidden from the Google Play Store.
In that case, the solution is simple: turn off parental control.
Follow these steps:
- Go to the Google Play Store.
- Select your Profile icon (upper right corner).
- Choose Settings.
- Go to Family.
- Select Parental controls.
- Turn it off by tapping the switch and enter your PIN.
Note: After you’ve installed the Netflix app, you can simply undo these changes by using steps 1-6 again.
#4: Clear cache from the Play Store
The cache memory can be very helpful.
It stores data like your different account credentials, frequently used apps, and timestamps from movies or songs.
But it doesn’t empty itself. And your device can get overloaded with too much unnecessary data.
As a result it can make your device buggy and can be the reason why the Netflix app won’t show up in the Play Store.
Then it’s time to clear the Play Store cache, and here’s how to do it in 7 simple steps:
- Go to Settings from your device.
- Select Apps & notifications.
- Choose See all apps.
- Navigate to and select Play Store.
- Go to Storage & cache.
- Tap Clear cache and then Clear Storage.
- Open the Play Store and search for the Netflix app again.
And for some extra visual guidance, here’s how to do it on a smartphone:
You might also like: (15 Fixes) YouTube App Not Working On Android
#5: Check your Android’s Play Protect status
The Google Play Store puts security protocols to ensure the safety of your Android device.
They are called Play Protect Certifications.
If your Android device isn’t Play Protect certified, it can mean that your device is rooted, and the app won’t show up in the Play Store.
’’How can I check if my Android device is Play Protect certified?’’
Good question, and here’s how you can check your Play Protect status in 4 easy steps:
- Go to the Play Store app.
- Select your Profile icon (upper right corner).
- Go to About.
- Then you can check under Play protect certification the status.
If your device is certified and you still can’t find the Netflix app, then head on to fix # 6.
And if your device isn’t certified, you can try contacting Google for support.
#6: Watch via a web browser
If you tried all the previous fixes and the Netflix app still doesn’t show up in the Play Store…
Then try to watch it via the web browser.
You can simply try this on any device with a web browser and a stable internet connection.
You can watch Netflix via the following browsers:
- Google Chrome.
- Edge.
- Firefox.
- Opera.
- Safari (Only via Mac).
Log in with your credentials and see how it goes.
Alternatively, you can try a different device.
This all helps to narrow down the troubleshooting.
You might also be interested in: 5 Easy Steps To Reset Netflix On Smart TV
#7: Contact Netflix
If you tried everything, but Netflix still doesn’t show up in the Play Store…
Then it’s time to directly contact Netflix’s customer support.
To make it easy for you, use this link to get in touch.