Netflix Kids: New Short-Form Video Feature on iOS

Netflix Introduces "Kids Clips" – A Short-Form Video Experience

Netflix initially debuted a TikTok-inspired feature called “Fast Laughs” earlier in the year. This provided users with brief, humorous video segments designed to showcase the platform’s comedy offerings, stand-up performances, and related content.

A Dedicated Feature for Younger Viewers

Now, the streaming giant is expanding this concept to its younger audience. A new feature, internally referred to as “Kids Clips,” has been identified within the Netflix application and confirmed by the company for a launch this week.

Discovery Through Short-Form Content

Developer Steve Moser first uncovered the feature, with initial reporting by Bloomberg. Moser subsequently verified his findings with TechCrunch, indicating the presence of related code within the Netflix iOS app.

The feature, as described in the app’s code, aims to provide younger users with access to “funny, silly, and musical short-form clips” sourced from television shows and movies.

Rollout and Availability

Netflix has confirmed to TechCrunch that the rollout will commence this week. Initial availability will include the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and the U.K.

Furthermore, the feature will extend to all other English-speaking regions, as well as Spanish-speaking Latin American markets with Spanish dubbing, and Brazil with Portuguese dubbing.

Functionality and Design

Netflix previously stated its interest in short-form video as a means of enhancing content discovery. The goal is to present its catalog in a “fun, fast, and intuitive” manner.

The similarities between “Fast Laughs” and TikTok are notable. Both platforms utilize a full-screen vertical video feed and feature engagement buttons on the right side for reactions and sharing.

However, unlike TikTok, commenting will not be available for adult users on “Fast Laughs.” Instead, a button allows users to easily add titles to their Netflix watch list.

How "Kids Clips" Differs

Netflix clarified to TechCrunch that “Kids Clips” will operate with a slightly different design.

Instead of a TikTok-style vertical feed, the kids’ feature will present horizontal videos within a full-screen window, rather than a dedicated tab.

Clips will automatically play, though parents retain the option to disable autoplay within the app’s settings.

Content Selection and Parental Controls

The selection of clips will be refreshed daily, drawing from existing shows within the kids’ catalog, excluding trailers. The feature will also respect any maturity settings configured for the child’s profile.

Initially, the feature will offer between 10 and 20 clips, displaying a counter in the upper right corner of the screen to indicate the total number available.

Objectives and User Engagement

Netflix anticipates that “Kids Clips” will facilitate content discovery for children and provide opportunities to revisit beloved moments from their favorite shows.

The Broader Context of Short-Form Video

While content discovery is a primary goal, the introduction of “Kids Clips” also acknowledges the growing popularity of short-form video platforms like TikTok.

Recent data indicates that TikTok is consuming a significant portion of users’ mobile time, rivaling platforms like YouTube, particularly among younger demographics.

Netflix's History with Social Media Features

This isn’t the first instance of Netflix incorporating elements from social media. Previously, the platform introduced “Previews,” a “Stories”-like feature designed to highlight new shows and movies.

Initial Availability and Testing

The feature will initially be available exclusively on iOS devices and is currently considered a “test” by Netflix.