Ambient TV has emerged as a notable trend in the streaming era, particularly on platforms like Netflix. The term describes television that serves as a comforting backdrop to daily life, demanding less focused attention while still remaining engaging. This form of entertainment seamlessly integrates into the viewer's environment, much like ambient music, moving between background and foreground as needed.
Ambient TV distinguishes itself through several key characteristics:
Several shows on Netflix have come to define the ambient TV genre:
Netflix has recognized the growing popularity of ambient TV, strategically incorporating it into its content offerings. The platform understands that viewers often engage with television while simultaneously using their phones or completing other tasks. By providing a variety of ambient TV options, Netflix aims to keep subscribers engaged and generate more viewing time.
Interestingly, the concept of "ambient" entertainment extends beyond streaming content. Some television manufacturers offer a feature on their TVs that allows the TV to blend into its surroundings by mimicking the wall behind it or displaying art, photos, news, or weather information. This mode adjusts the screen's brightness to match the room's lighting and can be set to turn off automatically, further enhancing its unobtrusive nature.
The rise of streaming services like Netflix and the popularity of ambient TV have also influenced residential design. With on-demand content readily available, people are designing their living spaces to prioritize comfort and entertainment. This includes creating minimalist spaces that reduce distractions or maximalist spaces that enhance the viewing experience with bold colors and textures