At the end of 2024, Plex is preparing to unveil a completely redesigned version of its application, the result of nearly two years of development. This redesign aims to offer a more fluid and unified experience, whether for accessing personal media or streaming content. The idea being to get closer and closer to classic SVOD services like Netflix or Apple TV+.
A new, clearer and more intuitive interface
The navigation has been completely redesigned to better distinguish between different types of content. The bottom bar now offers tabs dedicated to personal libraries, live TV and on-demand movies and series. The Watchlist gains pride of place at the top of the application, while the visuals take on more importance with an optimized display of artwork.
The interface has also been optimized for one-handed use on mobile, saying goodbye to hidden hamburger menus. Users can now quickly access their profile, viewing history, friends and streaming services from a centralized user menu, acting as a hub for all SVOD services in addition to being a simple player for content hosted by the user.
Unified development for greater efficiency
The Plex team made the ambitious choice to completely rewrite its applications by unifying its code base. This approach, which uses the SwiftUI language instead of the UIKit framework (like the iSoft app since v9), will ensure a consistent experience on all platforms. Plex explains in its announcement:
With this new unified approach, our team can collaborate seamlessly across all platforms, ensuring that each new feature is available on most platforms from day one.
This preview, available first on mobile and soon on TV, does not yet include all the features (playlists, casting, group viewing, etc.). However, Plex is committed to filling these gaps via weekly updates before the official launch in early 2025. To avoid any inconvenience similar to the recent Sonos controversy, the current application will remain available throughout the testing period.
Interested iOS and Android users can now test this new version by following the instructions on the forums from Plex. Please note that places are limited for iOS users who wish to participate in this preview phase.
