Plex is Getting a UI Overhaul

Plex is completely overhauling its media stream app, and you can preview the new look and feel now in the mobile versions of the app.

“We’re thrilled to announce a preview of our newly reimagined Plex experience, rolling out today for testing on mobile, with TV platforms coming very soon,” the Plex team writes in the announcement post. “This experience has been in the works for nearly two years, [and it’s] designed to bring everything you love into one seamless interface—from your personal media collection to on-demand content, along with improved ways to discover and connect with it all.”

The new Plex interface features simpler navigation with no hamburger menu, more personalization, faster Watchlist access, an expanded use of artwork throughout the app, and more. But Plex notes that the work it did under the covers is just as important: It’s rewriting all its apps using a shared codebase, resulting in better consistency and, going forward, easier maintenance and updating, with higher quality across the board.

“While we’ve done extensive testing, Plex runs on a vast range of devices and networks—more than most platforms—so we need your help to ensure everything works as smoothly as possible,” the team adds, explaining why it’s starting with this preview release. “Your feedback is essential to fine-tuning and optimizing the experience for all use cases. By running this Preview alongside the current app, you can have a worry-free test drive, providing your insights without disrupting your current Plex experience.”

To get started with the preview, follow the instructions in the Plex forum. It’s a little more complex, and there are a limited number of slots available, on iPhone because of Apple’s policies. Plex says it will change the app if needed based on feedback, and it expects a stable, public release in early 2025.