Netflix will terminate app support for PlayStation 3 consoles on March 2, affecting approximately 87 million devices sold worldwide. The streaming service is simultaneously discontinuing compatibility with smart TVs over 10 years old and select set top boxes, continuing a pattern of retiring legacy hardware that began in 2019.
Users attempting to launch Netflix on PS3 now see an on screen notification accompanied by error code R40 stating the service will no longer be available after March 2, 2026. Netflix has not issued an official announcement, though warnings began appearing in early February.
The PS3, launched in 2006, was among the first gaming consoles to offer Netflix streaming. At its peak in the early 2010s, PlayStation 3 represented over 30 percent of all Netflix streaming activity before smart TVs and dedicated streaming devices became widely available.
According to media reports, smart TVs manufactured before 2015 will lose Netflix compatibility beginning in March. Affected models include early Samsung, LG, Panasonic and Sony Bravia televisions. These devices lack operating system updates required to support newer Netflix app versions incorporating modern video codecs, security protocols and performance improvements. Other aging TV boxes globally may face similar discontinuation, though Netflix has not published a comprehensive list of affected hardware.
The pattern follows previous hardware purges. Netflix removed support from Nintendo Wii in January 2019, Wii U and 3DS in June 2021, first through third generation Apple TV devices in 2024, and first generation Amazon Fire TV devices in 2025. Xbox 360 support remains functional for users with the app already installed, though Microsoft closed the Xbox 360 store in July 2024. PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 retain full Netflix support with no announced discontinuation plans.
>Reddit users noted the PS3 was among the last devices enabling native 4:3 aspect ratio viewing on CRT televisions without letterboxing. Some users reported the console bypassed Netflix’s ad supported tier restrictions and household location verification checks, though these workarounds were not officially supported.
Netflix account data, viewing history and profiles remain unaffected. Users can continue accessing accounts on any supported device, including modern smart TVs, Roku and Amazon Fire TV streaming sticks, current generation gaming consoles, tablets and smartphones.
The company attributes hardware retirement to technical constraints. Older devices lack processing power and software support required for features including HDR10 Plus, Dolby Vision, 4K streaming and updated encryption standards. Alternative streaming solutions include purchasing a new smart TV or connecting external devices such as Roku Streaming Stick, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast with Google TV or Apple TV 4K, depending on what is available in your region.
