Matti Robinson
2 Aug 2019 11:48
Netflix is considered one of the pioneers in AB testing in the streaming service space, and the company has improved upon its layout, recommendations, and even rating system via customer data.
However, usually collecting data from customers isn't very controversial, unlike this time around. Twitter user by the name of Beto on Security has questioned Netflix's newest policy where they request physical activity data of the user.
The Netflix app has asked people to give permission to the smartphones physical activity data, which seems very odd to most. Why in the world would you need to give physical activity data to a streaming service?
Well, fortunately Netflix has revealed some of the thinking behind this request. According to Netflix, the company wants to improve upon the viewing experience by optimizing streaming performance of those on the move.
However, they've also realized this might not be the right way to go about it and have ended the testing, The Verge reports.
Would you be willing to reveal your activity data for improving the streaming capabilities?
Hey @netflix why does your Android app want physical activity data? pic.twitter.com/Lv0QUL0w9g
-- Beto on Shrooms on Security, Shitter of Posts (@BetoOnSecurity) July 27, 2019