It seems odd that these devices can use Netflix itself, but not a certain price tier of it. When you go on to the Netflix support page, it will tell you that the new ad-supported tier is not supported on Chromecast devices without Google TV. If you want to use Netflix on your non-Google TV Chromecast, it will have to be one of the higher-paid tears.
Netflix is not telling us why non-Google TV Chromecast devices can’t use the cheapest tier
What makes the situation worse is that Netflix is not telling us why. It’s tempting to think that it’s an issue intrinsic to Chromecast devices, but that’s not the case. At the moment, according to Android Police, Netflix says that the plan is incompatible with the non-Google TV Chromecast, PlayStation 3, all Apple TV devices, and Roku devices. However, Apple TV devices are going to gain compatibility eventually. So, at this moment, we’re in the dark as to whether the other devices will eventually gain compatibility. We don’t have high hopes for the PS3, as that device is 16 years old. But, the non-Google TV Chromecasts were only phased out two years ago.
In case you need to upgrade
If it turns out that you have to buy a new device, then you may as well shell out for a new Chromecast with Google TV. Chromecasts are usually more affordable than most other mainstream streaming devices, and the Google TV platform is one of the best on the market.