Although a new year usually comes with new game announcements and content, there has been additional news of ending services on Nintendo platforms. The company has announced that Netflix will soon be removed from the 3DS and WiiU.
New users can no longer download Netflix from their respective eShops. The download was officially removed for those trying to obtain it for the first time.
The removal list will apply for the New Nintendo 3DS, New Nintendo 3DS XL, New Nintendo 2DS XL, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo 3DS XL, Nintendo 2DS, Wii U Deluxe, and Wii U Basic systems. The app was officially removed from the eShop on December 31, which was bad news for anyone who may have received one of these systems as a holiday gift.
Those who have already downloaded the streaming software can continue to use it, but not for long. The download is also available to re-download for a limited time. Anyone who has the app running on their systems can move forward and make a Netflix account and use it normally, but only until this Summer.
With the removal of Netflix on the 3DS and WiiU, many have wondered if an official Netflix app was coming to the Switch. There has been no news of such a move from Netflix or Nintendo at this time, but it’s possible this could change in the future. For now, players can download an official YouTube app through the Switch eShop.
In 2010, Netflix’s Vice President of Corporate Communications Steve Swasey at the time stated that the service was coming to the Nintendo Wii. Two years later, at E3 2012, Reggie Fils-Aime confirmed that Netflix was coming to the WiiU. Additional video services that were later added include Hulu Plus and YouTube.
These media apps allowed players to use their systems not only as a place to play games but also to watch other content. Players could get their entertainment from one place instead of relying on multiple devices.
The full official statement on the Nintendo Customer Support website states:
The Netflix app was removed from Nintendo eShop on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS Family systems on Dec 31st, 2020. They are no longer available for new users to download. It is possible for existing users to re-download these applications at this time. Service for both applications will be discontinued on June 30th, 2021. Thank you for your support of these applications over the years.
Netflix will officially end service on the Nintendo 3DS and WiiU on June 30.
