A lot of Huawei users want to know if Netflix works properly on their phones. Once Google Mobile Services (GMS) stopped working, many apps that depend on Google’s environment stopped working or wouldn’t work at all on newer Huawei phones.
One of them is Netflix. Users can still watch Netflix in other ways even though the app isn’t available on AppGallery.
But restrictions on viewing, problems with installation, and frequent app updates can make things confusing for even experienced users.
This guide explains how Netflix not working huawei, what to expect, and how to enjoy streaming without Google Play.
How Netflix Works on Huawei Phones
Huawei’s changes to the software do slow down Netflix, but not all users are affected in the same way. How you use the app, the type of your phone, and the operating system you have all affect how you feel about it.
App Availability and Installation Options
Huawei’s AppGallery doesn’t have Netflix, and later Huawei phones can’t get it from the Google Play Store either. You can still install it by hand, though, by downloading a safe APK file.
Use one of the following methods:
- Official Netflix site: Use your browser to go to Netflix.com/android. Click on the link to get the most recent APK. This version doesn’t need Google services to work and can be used on most Huawei phones.
- Petal Search: Look for “Netflix” in Huawei’s Petal Search and choose a result from a safe source like APKMirror or APKPure.
- Manual download: Get a version of Netflix that works by going straight to a well-known APK site. If you have a newer Huawei gadget, pick an ARM64 build.
After downloading the APK:
- Go to Settings > Security > Install unknown apps.
- Grant permission to the browser or file manager used.
- Install the app and sign in.
- After the launch, Netflix will let you view titles like always. But because of hardware or DRM limits, some models may not be able to play HD content or may have stability problems.
Playback Resolution and Widevine Certification
To play material in HD or higher, Netflix needs Widevine DRM certification. Fans of Widevine L1 can stream up to 1080p or 4K, but fans of Widevine L3 can only stream 480p.
Some Huawei phones, like those that don’t have GMS, only handle L3. This lowers the video’s quality and might make it harder to download or play at a high frame rate.
To check your device’s certification:
- Download the DRM Info app via Petal Search.
- Open it and scroll to the Widevine section.
If it says L1, your gadget can stream HD video. Netflix will only play in SD if it says L3. You can’t easily improve your Widevine certification. Huawei is no longer a part of Google’s certification process, which is linked to the device’s software. This is a big reason why some users see fuzzy or pixelated video even when their internet is fast.
Keeping Netflix Updated Manually
Since you’re not using the Google Play Store, Netflix won’t update automatically. You need to install updates manually to access bug fixes and new features.
Here’s how:
- Note your current version: Open Netflix > Settings > About.
- Visit the same source where you got the original APK.
- Check for a newer version and download it.
- Install the update over the existing app (no need to uninstall first).
You won’t lose your login or saved titles when updating manually. Just make sure to download from the same site to avoid version conflicts. If the app starts crashing, delete it completely and reinstall the latest stable build.
Conclusion
Most Huawei smartphones can connect to Netflix, even ones that don’t have Google Mobile Services. You can use approved APKs to install the app, stream through your browser, or Petal Search to find sources you can trust.
The Widevine approval of your phone tells you whether the video you can play is HD or SD. Huawei users all over the world can still use Netflix thanks to manual changes and other ways to get in.
Yes, you can watch your favorite shows and movies without Google Play if you follow the right steps. Stay safe, only download from reputable sites, and make sure your device is always up to date for the best watching experience.
