How to Use Netflix on Your Phone

Learn how to set up and use Netflix on your phone to watch movies and TV shows. A simple step-by-step guide for beginners.

Easy 7 steps all ~11 min February 26, 2026

What you will learn

You will learn how to install Netflix on your phone, create an account, and start watching movies and TV shows. You will also learn how to search for content and download shows to watch offline (without internet).

What you need

  • A smartphone (iPhone or Android)
  • A Wi-Fi connection (recommended) or mobile data
  • A payment method (credit card, debit card, or PayPal)

Step 1: Download the Netflix app

Open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android). Tap the search bar at the top and type Netflix. Find the app with the red “N” logo and tap Get or Install. Wait for the download to finish.

Step 2: Open the app and create an account

Tap Open to launch Netflix. If you do not have an account yet, tap Sign Up or visit netflix.com in your web browser. Follow the steps to choose a plan and enter your payment information. Netflix offers a few plans at different prices — the basic plan is enough to get started.

Step 3: Sign in to your account

On the Netflix app, tap Sign In. Enter the email address and password you used when creating your account. Tap Sign In again.

Step 4: Choose your profile

Netflix lets each family member have their own profile. Tap your name to select your profile. If you want to create a new profile, tap Add Profile and enter a name.

Step 5: Browse and search for something to watch

The home screen shows recommended movies and shows. Scroll up and down to browse. To find something specific, tap the magnifying glass icon at the top and type the name of a movie, show, or actor.

Step 6: Start watching

Tap on any movie or show to see its description. Tap the Play button to start watching. You can pause at any time by tapping the screen and then tapping the pause icon. To go back, tap the arrow in the top-left corner.

Step 7: Download a show to watch offline

Find a movie or show you want to save for later. Tap the download icon (an arrow pointing down) next to the title. The show will download to your phone. To find your downloads later, tap My Netflix at the bottom, then tap Downloads.

Tips

  • Use Wi-Fi when streaming to avoid using your mobile data
  • If you share your account with family, each person should have their own profile so recommendations stay personal
  • To adjust subtitle size, go to your account settings at netflix.com/account and look for Subtitle Appearance
  • If the app is not working, try closing it completely and reopening it

Frequently asked questions

How much does Netflix cost?

Netflix plans start at around 6.99 per month for the Standard with Ads plan. Prices vary by country. You can check current prices at netflix.com.

Can I watch Netflix without internet?

Yes. You can download movies and shows to your phone while connected to Wi-Fi, then watch them later without internet. Use the download button next to each title.

How do I cancel Netflix?

Open Netflix, tap your profile icon, then tap Account. Scroll down and tap Cancel Membership. You can keep watching until the end of your billing period.

Can two people watch Netflix at the same time?

It depends on your plan. The Standard plan allows two screens at once. The Premium plan allows four screens.

Why is the video blurry?

Blurry video usually means a slow internet connection. Try moving closer to your Wi-Fi router or pausing other downloads on your network.

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