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As Plex tests out a significant redesign of its app, the company has announced a series of changes that are set to affect both pricing and features for users. This includes a price increase for the Plex Pass subscription, changes to remote streaming for personal media, and new options for users. The updates come at a time when Plex is focusing on enhancing its service while ensuring its viability amid rising operational costs.
Key Changes
Starting April 29, 2025, Plex will be increasing the prices of its Plex Pass subscription in the following ways:
– Monthly Subscription: $6.99 (up from $5.99)
– Yearly Subscription: $69.99 (up from $49.99)
– Lifetime Subscription: $249.99 (up from $119.99)
This marks the first price increase for Plex Pass in over a decade. According to Plex, this increase is necessary to cover rising operational costs and ensure the continued success of Plex Pass and its commitment to supporting personal media.
The company also outlined three major features coming to Plex users in 2025:
1. Integration with Common Sense Media: Plex will introduce valuable extras for Plex Pass holders through a new partnership with Common Sense Media.
2. Server Management App: A new bespoke app for server management will offer better curation and more visibility into the usage of Plex Media Servers, including monitoring who is accessing content.
3. API for Server Integrations: Plex will launch an open and documented API, allowing users to integrate other services and create custom metadata agents.
But the biggest change for many users is the removal of free remote playback for personal media. Starting April 29, 2025, streaming personal media from a remote location will require a Plex Pass subscription. However, Plex has clarified that if the server owner has a Plex Pass, all users with access to the server can stream remotely at no extra charge.
For users who do not own a Plex Media Server, a new subscription option called Remote Watch Pass will be available for $1.99/month or $19.99/year. This service allows users to stream media from any server to which they have access, making it an affordable alternative for those who don’t need the full Plex Pass features but still want remote access.
Additionally, Plex is eliminating the mobile unlock fee. Previously, Plex users had to pay a one-time activation fee or subscribe to Plex Pass to remove the one-minute playback limitation on Android and iOS devices. Going forward, streaming on local networks will be free on mobile apps once the new version exits its preview period.
What Undercode Says:
The pricing changes introduced by Plex may seem substantial, but they reflect the broader trends within the media and tech industries, where companies have been adjusting pricing models due to rising operational and infrastructure costs. Plex’s decision to implement its first price increase in over 10 years signals both growth and the challenges of maintaining a competitive service in an increasingly crowded market.
Plex’s changes to remote streaming, particularly the removal of the free feature for non-Plex Pass holders, could be viewed as a move to boost subscriptions. This could create more friction for casual users who enjoy the flexibility of accessing personal media remotely without paying. However, the of the Remote Watch Pass at an affordable price offers a fair compromise, catering to users who want a more budget-friendly option while still offering valuable functionality.
The launch of the Server Management App and integration with Common Sense Media also demonstrates Plex’s commitment to improving its service beyond simple streaming. These tools provide server owners with greater control and curation options, which is particularly important for those managing extensive media libraries. By offering these upgrades, Plex is positioning itself not just as a media streaming platform, but as a robust tool for managing and customizing content.
On the other hand, the elimination of the mobile unlock fee for Android and iOS users is a positive move that will likely be well-received. The one-minute playback limitation, previously a point of frustration for many users, has been a barrier for casual mobile users, and removing it will likely improve the overall user experience. This move aligns with Plex’s growing emphasis on accessibility and user-friendliness.
In the broader context, these changes are indicative of how streaming platforms must continuously evolve to stay competitive while balancing profitability. Plex’s decision to hike prices and introduce new features is an attempt to future-proof the service, keeping pace with rising costs while offering value to its dedicated user base.
Fact Checker Results:
- Price Increase: Plex’s price increase of $6.99/month, $69.99/year, and $249.99 for lifetime subscriptions are confirmed and effective starting April 29, 2025.
- Remote Streaming Changes: Remote streaming will be restricted for non-Plex Pass holders from April 29, 2025, with the of the Remote Watch Pass priced at $1.99/month.
- Mobile Unlock Fee: The mobile unlock fee for Android and iOS users has been removed, and the one-minute playback limitation will be lifted.
References:
Reported By: https://9to5mac.com/2025/03/19/plex-price-increase-remote-streaming-changes
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