Netflix and Verizon have been having a public spat over connection issues as the streaming service tests messages that tell consumers their videos are slow due to issues at Verizon, USA TODAY reported.
A customer tweeted about a message from Netflix on Tuesday evening that said, "The Verizon network is crowded right now. Adjusting video for smoother playback."
Netflix later confirmed in a statement that it had sent the message.
We are testing ways to let consumers know how their Netflix experience is being affected by congestion on their broadband provider's network," said Netflix spokesman Jonathan Friedland, in an e-mail quoted by USA TODAY. "At present, we are testing in the U.S. in areas serviced by many broadband providers."
Verizon has since sent a cease-and-desist letter to the video streaming service to stop Netflix from blaming a crowded network for slow video speeds.
"There is no basis to assert that issues with respect to playback of any particular video session are attributable solely to the Verizon network," wrote Verizon general counsel Randal Milch to Netflix's chief lawyer, David Hyman, as quoted by USA TODAY. "Verizon demands that Netflix immediately cease and desist from providing any such further 'notices' to users of the Verizon network."
Verizon has called the move a "PR stunt" and said that many other factors can affect video speed and quality. The clash comes just about a month after Netflix and Verizon signed a deal to improve their customers' Netflix experience.
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