Innovation

5 ways to watch Netflix with friends — without leaving the house

Friends with friends.

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Netflix Party

What it is: Google Chrome extension that lets groups watch Netflix. The show stays in sync for everyone. There's a chat window, but you can supplement it with a voice or video calls.

How it works: Install the extension, open Netflix, press the NP button and generate a link. Share it with others.

Where to download: From the Google Chrome store.

Social distancing rating: 8/10. In-sync video watching, finally!

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Watch2gether

What it is: Sync playback with YouTube, DailyMotion, and others. Syncing allows users to sync up playback from most sites.

How it works: Chrome, Firefox extension.

Where to download: The Chrome extension is free.

Social distancing rating: 8/10. It also offers webcam support and shared Amazon shopping.

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TwoSeven

What it is: Keep movies in sync. Supports Netflix, Amazon Video, Hulu. It's received positive reviews from users.

How it works: Visit the website and get started.

Where to download: There's a Google Chrome extension.

Social distancing rating: 8/10. A nice alternative to Netflix Party.

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Video calling

How it works: Fire up your video calling service of choice (FaceTime, Skype, Discord, Google Hangouts). Remember to press play at the same time.

Social distancing rating: 6/10. Good, dependable services that lack the syncing features of the Chrome extensions.

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Phone calls

What it is: Poor internet connection? Limited data plan? The phone is a sure-fire way of keeping in touch without taking up internet bandwidth.

Where to download: No download necessary!

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