It was just over three years ago that Plex first made its appearance on Xbox One, enabling users to gain easy access to media stored on a Plex server right from their console. While this was a boon for more convenient content consumption, users were required to have an active PlexPass subscription in order to use the app. However, that requirement was removed in a major update released the following year. While things have been relatively quiet since then, a new update is now rolling out for the Xbox One app.
Acknowledging the recent work undertaken by Microsoft in updating the Xbox One dashboard, the Plex team took the opportunity to do the same for their app. According to their announcement, Plex has delivered "a brand new, media-centric user interface that reflects our love for gorgeous metadata (posters! artwork!) as well as our passion for media browsing efficiency". Specifically, regarding the latter, grid layouts are leveraged by default while media discovery options become visible where most appropriate.
However, the update isn"t just about looks, with a number of improvements bundled up in the latest release, including:
Mixed Photo/Video Libraries
Now, not only can you view all the unforgettable moments captured in your vacation photos, but you can watch the videos you took during the trip, too. All within the same library!Alexa Compatibility
Compatibility with Alexa means you can freely lose the remote into the deep abyss of couch cushions with wild abandon; just talk to her, already!Better Subtitle Compatibility
The app can now display many subtitle formats without using additional server resources. Enjoy faster playback and less whirring!Xbox Gamertags
Not sure you want everyone to know how long you’ve been playing Goat Simulator? For the internet sleuths in your life, Plex accounts are no longer tied to your Xbox gamertags. There’s no need to link accounts, and you can enjoy your newfound freedom!
The latest update is free for all users and will automatically update on Xbox One consoles over the next few days.