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Fury as Netflix 'tests variable speed playback' allowing users to watch films 1.5-times quicker

La Habra, United States - August 2, 2016: Macro closeup image of Netflix app icon among other icons on an iphone smartphone device.
Netflix (Credit: Getty)

Netflix is testing 'variable speed' playback on its Android platform, according to reports, meaning that users could soon be able to watch movies at slower or quicker speeds, similar to that seen on podcast apps.

Many Netflix users on the Android platform began posting screenshots of the new playback options, which go up to 1.5-times normal speed.

Let's just say it's gone down pretty badly.

High-profile filmmakers and actors have been hammering the streaming studio over the test, urging it to reconsider.

Key among them was Trainwreck and Knocked Up director Judd Apatow, who really didn't mince his words.

Others were quick to followed suit.

And it seems regular folk aren't happy about it either.

Netflix has addressed the situation in a statement, saying: “We’re always experimenting with new ways to help members use Netflix.

“This test makes it possible to vary the speed at which people watch shows on their mobiles.

“As with any test, it may not become a permanent feature on Netflix.”