Netflix just released instructions showing industrious binge-watchers how to make “the switch,” a homebrew device that can turn on your TV, tune to Netflix, dim the lights and set phones to “do not disturb” mode, with the press of a single button. It seems the company is very much onto the meaning of “Netflix and chill.”
“You’ll see that we built a switch that does everything you need to get ready for a Netflix marathon with just one press,” reads Netflix’ blog post.
Don’t assume this will be easy and convenient just because it’s coming from Netflix. The button instructions suggest a sound knowledge of electrical wiring and “knowledge of web servers and APIs.” (If you didn’t know that “API” is short for “application programming interface,” you probably shouldn’t try to build this without help.)
But if you’re bold enough to build something beyond the basic box, the site also shows how to add extra functions to your Netflix switch, such as ordering food online. With the right programming skills, you could write a computer script to do anything an automated laptop could do.
For now, you can watch the step-by-step instructions below: