Quick Answer: Yes, you can watch Netflix on your Peloton Bike or Bike+. Unlike some apps that require Google services, Netflix works on Peloton once installed. There are two ways to do it: the manual method using developer mode and ADB sideloading, or the one-button solution with FitSwitch.
Table of Contents
- Can You Really Watch Netflix on Peloton?
- Method 1: Manual Setup (Developer Mode)
- Method 2: The Easy Way with FitSwitch
- Step-by-Step Comparison
- FAQ
Can You Really Watch Netflix on Peloton?
If you've ever wanted to binge your favorite show while getting your cardio in, you're not alone. Thousands of Peloton owners want to use that beautiful 22" or 24" touchscreen for more than just Peloton classes. The good news? It's absolutely possible.
Your Peloton runs on Android, which means it can technically run Android apps. While some apps (like YouTube) require Google Mobile Services and won't work on Peloton, Netflix functions independently and works great once installed. You just need a way to get apps onto Peloton's locked-down interface.
There are two approaches: the technical DIY method that requires a computer and some patience, or a plug-and-play solution that handles everything for you. Let's walk through both.
Method 1: Manual Setup Using Developer Mode
This method is completely free but requires some technical know-how and about 45 minutes of your time. You'll be using Android Debug Bridge (ADB) to sideload the Netflix app onto your Peloton.
What You'll Need
- A Windows or Mac computer
- A USB-C cable (the one that charges your phone usually works)
- Android Debug Bridge (ADB) installed on your computer
- The Netflix APK file
- About 45 minutes of uninterrupted time
Step 1: Enable Developer Mode on Peloton
First, you need to unlock the hidden developer options on your Peloton:
- Tap the three dots in the bottom right corner of your Peloton screen
- Go to Device Settings
- Scroll down and tap About Tablet
- Find Build Number and tap it 7 times rapidly
- You should see a message saying "You are now a developer!"
- Go back to Device Settings—you'll now see Developer Options
Step 2: Enable USB Debugging
- Open Developer Options (now visible in Device Settings)
- Scroll down to find USB Debugging
- Toggle it ON
- Confirm any security prompts that appear
Step 3: Install ADB on Your Computer
For Windows:
1. Download the Android SDK Platform Tools from Google
2. Extract the ZIP file to a folder (like C:\adb)
3. Open Command Prompt and navigate to that folder
4. Type adb version to verify installation
For Mac:
1. Open Terminal
2. If you have Homebrew, run: brew install android-platform-tools
3. Or download the Platform Tools ZIP and extract it
4. Type adb version to verify installation
Step 4: Connect and Authorize
- Connect your computer to the Peloton's USB-C port using your cable
- On your computer, run:
adb devices - Look at your Peloton screen—you should see an authorization prompt
- Check "Always allow from this computer" and tap Allow
- Run
adb devicesagain—you should see your Peloton listed
Step 5: Download the Netflix APK
- Go to a trusted APK site like APKMirror
- Download the Netflix APK (choose the version compatible with Android TV or tablets)
- Note the file location on your computer
Step 6: Sideload Netflix
- In your terminal/command prompt, navigate to where you downloaded the APK
- Run:
adb install netflix.apk(replace with your actual filename) - Wait for the installation to complete—you'll see "Success" when done
Step 7: Launch Netflix
- You'll need a launcher to access sideloaded apps
- Install a launcher like Sideload Launcher using the same ADB process
- Open the launcher from Developer Options → Apps
- Find and tap Netflix to launch it
Alternative: OpenPelo Project
The community-driven OpenPelo project on GitHub provides tools to help install apps on your Peloton. It can simplify some of the sideloading process, though it still requires technical knowledge and a computer.
Limitations of This Method
Here's where the manual method falls short:
- Requires a computer every time you want to add or update an app
- Takes 30-45 minutes per app installation
- Must be redone after Peloton software updates — updates can remove sideloaded apps
- No metrics overlay — you can't see your cadence, power, or heart rate while watching Netflix
- Clunky app switching — no easy way to jump between Peloton and Netflix
- Technical knowledge required — ADB errors can be frustrating to troubleshoot
- USB cable always needed — you need physical access with a cable each time
Method 2: The Easy Way with FitSwitch
FitSwitch eliminates all the complexity above with a simple USB device that plugs into your Peloton. No computer needed, no command line, no technical skills required.
What FitSwitch Does
-
One-button app installation — Add Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and dozens more apps in seconds. Just browse, tap, and install. First-time setup requires following the FitSwitch installation instructions.
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Built-in app store — No need to hunt for APK files or worry about malware. FitSwitch provides a curated library of verified apps.
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Survives Peloton updates — When Peloton pushes a software update, your apps stay put. No need to re-sideload anything.
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Metrics overlay — This is the game-changer. FitSwitch displays your real-time cadence, power output, and heart rate on top of Netflix or any other app. You get the entertainment you want without losing the workout data you need.
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Smartwatch connectivity — FitSwitch broadcasts your Peloton data to smartwatches including Apple Watch and Garmin Fenix. Track your workout on your wrist while watching Netflix on the screen.
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Constant power mode (ERG) in Peloton app — On the Bike+, FitSwitch enables constant power mode even while using the native Peloton app. Set a target wattage and the bike automatically adjusts resistance to maintain it.
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Easy app switching — Jump between Netflix and your Peloton class with a simple swipe. No launcher apps or workarounds needed.
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Set it and forget it — After initial setup, it just works every time you get on your bike.
How to Install Netflix with FitSwitch
- Plug FitSwitch into your Peloton's USB-C port
- Follow the installation instructions for first-time setup
- Open the FitSwitch app store on your Peloton screen
- Find Netflix and tap Install
- Sign into your Netflix account
- Start watching (with your metrics overlaid on screen)
That's it. Six steps, done forever.
The Metrics Overlay Advantage
Here's something the manual method simply can't do: with FitSwitch, you can watch Netflix while still seeing your:
- Current cadence (RPM)
- Power output (watts)
- Heart rate (if using a connected monitor)
- Resistance level
- Calories burned
The overlay is customizable—make it larger or smaller, move it around the screen, or adjust transparency. You never have to choose between entertainment and workout data.
Step-by-Step Comparison
| Feature | Manual (ADB) Method | FitSwitch |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | 45+ minutes | 5 minutes |
| Computer Required | Yes, every time | No |
| Technical Skill Needed | Moderate to high | None |
| Survives Peloton Updates | No | Yes |
| Metrics Overlay | No | Yes |
| Smartwatch Sync | No | Yes (Apple Watch, Garmin) |
| ERG Mode in Peloton App | No | Yes (Bike+) |
| App Store Access | Manual APK downloads | Built-in curated store |
| App Switching | Requires launcher workaround | Native swipe gesture |
| Support | DIY troubleshooting | Customer support included |
| Cost | Free (time investment) | One-time purchase |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will watching Netflix on Peloton void my warranty?
Sideloading apps does not void your Peloton warranty. You're not modifying hardware or making permanent software changes. Both the manual method and FitSwitch are completely reversible—you can always factory reset your Peloton to return it to stock condition.
Does this work with both Peloton Bike and Bike+?
Yes. Both the original Peloton Bike and the Bike+ run Android and support app sideloading. The process is identical for both models. FitSwitch works with all Peloton Bike models, including the Bike, Bike+, and Tread.
Can I still use the Peloton app and classes?
Absolutely. Adding Netflix doesn't remove or affect your Peloton app in any way. You can take a Peloton class in the morning and watch Netflix during an afternoon recovery ride. With FitSwitch, switching between apps is seamless.
Will Netflix work in full screen?
Yes. Netflix displays in full screen on the Peloton's 22" (Bike) or 24" (Bike+) touchscreen. It looks great—that's a lot of screen real estate for watching shows while you ride.
Do I need a Netflix subscription?
Yes, you'll need an active Netflix subscription to watch content. The Peloton acts just like any other tablet running the Netflix app—you sign in with your existing account.
What about sound? Can I use headphones?
Yes. You can use the Peloton's built-in speakers, connect Bluetooth headphones through the Peloton's settings, or use the 3.5mm headphone jack on the back of the screen.
Can I track my workout on my Apple Watch or Garmin?
Yes, with FitSwitch. It broadcasts your Peloton's cadence, power, and heart rate data via ANT+ and Bluetooth. Your Apple Watch, Garmin Fenix, or other fitness watch can track your ride just like any other cycling workout.
Is this legal?
Yes. Sideloading apps on your own device is completely legal. You own the Peloton hardware, and Android explicitly allows app installation from sources outside the default app store. You're not circumventing any copy protection or violating any terms of service.
What about YouTube?
Unlike Netflix, the official YouTube app requires Google Mobile Services (GMS) which Peloton doesn't have. To watch YouTube, you'll need to use a web browser or SmartTube (an open-source YouTube client)—both of which FitSwitch provides.
What is the OpenPelo project?
OpenPelo is a community-driven GitHub project that provides tools for installing apps on Peloton. It's an alternative to the manual ADB method but still requires technical knowledge and a computer.
What happens when Peloton releases a software update?
With the manual method, there's a risk that major Peloton updates could remove your sideloaded apps or disable developer mode, requiring you to start over.
With FitSwitch, updates are handled gracefully—your apps and settings persist across Peloton software updates, so you never have to redo your setup.
Ready to Watch Netflix on Your Peloton?
The manual method works, but it's time-consuming and limited. Every time Peloton updates or you want to add a new app, you're back at your computer with ADB commands.
FitSwitch transforms your Peloton into the entertainment and training hub it should be—with one-tap app installs, real-time metrics overlay, smartwatch connectivity, and zero technical hassle.
Get FitSwitch — Unlock Netflix, Zwift, and 50+ more apps on your Peloton.
Last updated: January 2025