Netflix released its instructions and prototype for a button that it calls “The Switch”, at the 2015 World Maker Faire this weekend. The internet dubbed it as “Netflix and chill” button.
“We built a switch that does everything you need to get ready for a Netflix marathon with just one press. It turns on your TV and brings you right to Netflix, dims your lights, silences your phone, and even orders you food”, the company said on its website.
The "Netflix Switch" is a maker gadget, that is to say that it would not be available for sale online or in stores, however, Netflix outlines everything one needs to build their own.
Netflix explains that at the heart of switch’s electronics is the microcontroller and the prototype has been built using “Particle Core”, a small prototyping board that allows you to easily connect to multiple devices and networks. Moreover, the switch is wireless and uses a lithium-ion polymer (LiPo) battery with a charging circuit that connects by Micro USB cable.
“What stands out to us is the open and inviting nature of this project. At first glance, it may remind you of the single-button ordering device that recently came from Amazon — you push a button, a product is automatically ordered. However, this project by Netflix greatly differs as they describe how to make your own, and more importantly, how to customize it and make it do what you want”, said Makezine.com.
