Netflix is testing a ‘watch timer’ that pauses a TV programme or film if you fall asleep

With over 167 million users around the world, Netflix is without a doubt one of the most popular streaming services.

Now, Netflix has started testing a new feature that could be music to the ears of any users who like to watch TV programmes or films as they fall asleep.

The feature, called Watch Timer, lets you pick a period of time that Netflix will run before pausing, ensuring you don’t miss any of the action as you doze off.

The feature is currently being tested with select Android users, and it remains unclear when, or even if, it will be available for all Netflix users.

Netflix has started testing a new feature that could be music to the ears of any users who like to watch TV programmes or films as they fall asleep

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The feature, called Watch Timer, lets you pick a period of time that Netflix will run before pausing, ensuring you don’t miss any of the action as you doze off.

Users can choose to pause an episode or film after 15, 20 or 45 minutes.

Alternatively, you can select the ‘Finish Show’ option, which will prevent the app from auto-playing another episode.

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The Watch Timer feature can be set to pause an episode or film after 15, 20 or 45 minutes.

Alternatively, you can select the ‘Finish Show’ option, which will prevent the app from auto-playing another episode.

This could be useful for people who like to watch something as they doze off, or for parents setting screen time limits for their children.

Speaking to The Sun, a Netflix spokesperson explained: ‘We’re always looking for new ways to improve the Netflix mobile experience.

‘This test is the latest example – a new timer that gives members more control over their viewing experience by simply choosing their favorite show or movie and setting a timer without having to worry about pausing it before it’s over.’

The Watch Timer is currently being tested with some Android users, and unfortunatley it remains unclear when, or even if, it will be available to all users.

‘We experiment with these types of tests and will only roll the feature out more broadly if we find it improves the member experience,’ the Netflix spokesperson added.