Can I remove the Instant feature?

I'd like to disable the instant watch feature. We find it's too easy for the kids (adults too, actually) to spend too much time in front of the screen. I would rather make our Netflix viewing not so "instant" but I don't see how to remove the feature. Note: I'm using the Mac beta version. Maybe it has some limitations at the moment?

Tags: delete, instant, remove

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Permalink Reply by Snorii on November 4, 2008 at 5:23am: The only thing I can think of is to not give your kids the netflix account password and just sign out when you don't want them to have access.; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by 2McAbre on November 4, 2008 at 5:33am: We find it's too easy for the kids (adults too, actually) to spend too much time in front of the screen.

Easy Breasy... Though you might not like the answer...

Its called "Establishing Rules, and Placing Limitations of Use" onto your computers.

With that their is no easier said then done... It's called simply doing.

If they don't want to follow the rules (it starts with the adults setting the example...) then you simply remove the plug from the computer if they break the rules, and they don't get it back till they start following the rules.; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Aces on November 4, 2008 at 5:35am: Set them up with their own profile and have them sign on with it. Sub Profiles don't have access to the Instant Watch feature. You can find profiles under your accout info.; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Spindaddydad on November 4, 2008 at 7:12am: Or perhaps you signed up for the Mac beta (that can't be un-done), don't like the results and are now wanting to eliminate it so that you can re-enlist with the old version? I'm sorry, it's just too far-fetched to think that someone would be asking some other entity to control their own viewing habits.; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Pihk on November 4, 2008 at 7:33am: Let me try to understand: after months of Mac users complaining about not having the Instant Watch feature, now that's its being rolled out we are going to get complaints to remove it??!?!?

I am sooo glad I don't have to deal with Joe Customer at my job!; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by 2McAbre on November 4, 2008 at 7:42am: Snort! That was my first reaction!

My stupid computer is acting up, and (sniffles) I cant watch movies with the new player.. Too choppy.

Methinks its time to replace ye old hard drive. I'm just so not looking forward to it. Especially if its not the problem. But I suspect it is (about 90%).; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by SSD on November 4, 2008 at 8:19am: It's funny how one can ask a simple question (w/ a friendly tone of simple inquiry) about having some basic control over a Netflix user account only to be lectured about parenting/life skills or suspected as a "Mac user complainer."

Seems to me that a well designed user account interface should allow the authorized user to easily "go back" to the feature-set they previously had (and preferred) without having to set up new queues, passwords, blah-blah. My experience with other user accounts is that they allow full control of features, profiles, etc. Based on the replies to my question, it appears the Netflix user account is more like a "you gave it a try so now you're stuck with it. Make sure you have a parent/child meeting, and oh by the way, you should be setting a better example" scenario. I guess I missed that fine print when I signed up to try the beta IW.

Let ME try to understand: the programmers at Netflix can create a instant watch feature for Joe Customer but they didn't think about a simple button to remove the feature?

This is not about self discipline, parenting skills, complaining, etc. It's about considering a customer's use preferences, account flexibility, and a well designed user interface.

So ... thanks for the clever replies, everyone. I guess I'll go somewhere else for help.; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by 2McAbre on November 4, 2008 at 8:43am: I'd like to disable the instant watch feature. We find it's too easy for the kids (adults too, actually) to spend too much time in front of the screen.

I reiterate, its not the computers job (nor the various websites job) to monitor anyones usage. No one was lecturing you. Though a lot of folks do seem to feel that it is up to "Them" to provide controls, when in fact its up to "Us' to establish them and enforce them.

I would rather make our Netflix viewing not so "instant" but I don't see how to remove the feature.

I don't see a need for an option to remove this feature. Simply...
1.) Do not click on the IW tab.
2.) Should you accidentally do so, don't install any support components.

Note: I'm using the Mac beta version. Maybe it has some limitations at the moment?

This is why the sarcasm by most. You (or someone using your computer) choose voluntarily to click on the link that took you to an opt in page, where you had to agree to the terms, and then had to install the software. I fail to see how this is Netflix's fault, or responsibility.

Note: Before a commercial software program is released to the public, it usually goes through a "beta" phase. During this stage, the software is tested for bugs, crashes, errors, inconsistencies, and any other problems.

"beta software is usually available only to particular users who will test it"

This is not about self discipline, parenting skills, complaining, etc.

Um, yeah... it is...

I guess I'll go somewhere else for help.

I truly do not see what help you expected to find from Movie Lovers Fan Site anyway. Oh wait... I forgot... Because Netflix links to us, it automatically makes us a "Customer Service & Support" forum...

My Bad!; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by thatboy on November 4, 2008 at 8:53am: To answer your question directly: No, there is no way to disable the instant watch feature other than the simple solution Chaos gave you for your kids. You can, however, choose not to utilize it.; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by 2McAbre on November 4, 2008 at 9:07am: But... But... But... TB, that would mean "I" would have to do some work! Not them!

Why should I have to do that! All "They" have to do is make a button that lets me turn it off! Oh! I just had a thought! They will also have to figure out how to HIDE that button once I push it, or someone (spouse, kids, uncle Ralph) will simply turn the feature back on!

Ooo Ooo, and then they will have to create another button to unhide the hidden feature in case I change my mind... But then would have to hide that button so that someone couldn't unhide it.....

You got one part of it right... Chaos!

Sorry... Migraine Day...; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Pihk on November 4, 2008 at 9:23am: What about...a remote control that works on HUMANS???

Long time fans of my robotic companion research will be happy to know that I now have a device that does exactly that!

errr...its in the beta stage and will require some invasive (but funtastic!) cranial surgery. Any volunteers? STD?; ▶ Reply to This