Plex has unveiled a significant upcoming update for its iPhone application. This update includes a complete redesign featuring changes in navigation and additional artwork. From a structural standpoint, the app has been entirely rewritten from scratch.
While currently emphasizing the mobile experience, Plex assures users that a refreshed TV interface will be available “very soon.”
In a recent blog entry, Plex highlighted that a key aspect of the new design is enhancing the navigation system:
A major update includes redesigned navigation that simplifies the exploration of various Plex sections and content discovery. Extensive user testing indicated that this new layout allows current users to navigate more seamlessly while giving newcomers a better understanding of what Plex offers. Our core features are now more accessible, eliminating the cumbersome hidden hamburger menus and making one-handed exploration easier.
The updated Plex app also emphasizes larger, more immersive artistic elements across its interface:
A distinctive feature of this redesign is the increased incorporation of artwork throughout the app, enriching your visual experience. You’ll particularly see this on movie and show detail pages, as well as cast and crew profiles, and even your personalized profile page. Additionally, we’ve added title artwork for movies and shows when available—a much-requested improvement that enhances each page’s appearance. And we’re just at the beginning; anticipate further enhancements as we continue to develop these pages to be both stunning and engaging.
Aside from the aesthetic updates and new functionalities, Plex emphasizes that this is also a comprehensive backend redesign. The application has been rebuilt entirely and unifies its platforms under a single codebase. This foundational change is expected to promote quicker updates and the introduction of new features in the future.
For users managing their own media collections, a specific “My Library” tab is introduced in the new Plex app. However, the design seems to strategically encourage users to explore other Plex capabilities, such as its integration with various streaming services found on the “Home” tab.
Plex recognizes that this is a substantial redesign, and getting it right is essential. Therefore, the new interface is being released today as an early access preview, with a public launch scheduled for 2025.
You can opt to try the new app by visiting the Plex forums and joining the TestFlight program. Additionally, Plex’s website includes a page outlining features that are still absent from the new app, such as casting options, selective downloads, offline functionalities, and more.
Follow Chance: Threads, Bluesky, Instagram, and Mastodon.
: . More.
