A friend was using a computer with Windows 8.1 (I know lol), and her streaming services stopped working on it. Because she was using an old computer, she couldn’t upgrade to Windows 11. So I suggested installing Linux and even doing it for her, but the problem is that most streaming services don’t work on Linux. After making that disclaimer and suggesting she use a streaming stick, she decided that her computer is junk and will just get a new one. A win for Microsoft.
But the crux is that if streaming services don’t treat Linux as a first class platform, Linux will never be truly mainstream. People say that it’s Microsoft Office or Adobe blocking Linux from the mainstream, but Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, Peacock, etc are the real missing “apps” on Linux.
Why so much downvotes. Streaming services restrict higher quality streams on linux distros, it’s common knowledge. Widevine L3 is supported by browser and that’s what running when someone streams netflix, disney+ or anything on a browser, firefox or chrome, in linux. Almost all streaming services provide 720p with Widevine L3. On the other hand, 1080p and higher are only available in widevine L1, which has to built into the kernal and certified by Google. And linux kernal WILL NOT BE DOING THAT. The OP doesn’t even blame linux for this, they explicitly say to blame streaming services.