Plex Raises Subscription Price - First Increase in 10 Years

Plex Announces Price Adjustments and Policy Updates

Plex, a provider of streaming services and software solutions, is implementing price increases for its premium subscription, Plex Pass. This marks the first price adjustment in ten years for the service, which delivers enhanced functionality to its users.

New Plex Pass Pricing

The monthly cost of Plex Pass will be adjusted to $6.99, an increase from the previous rate of $4.99.

Annual subscriptions will also see a price change, rising to $69.99 from $39.99. Furthermore, a lifetime Plex Pass will now be available for $249.99, compared to its former price of $119.99.

These changes are scheduled to take effect on April 29th, providing current Plex Pass subscribers with a limited window to secure the lifetime subscription at the existing, lower cost.

Additional Changes Announced

In conjunction with the pricing updates, Plex is also introducing modifications to remote playback for personal media and eliminating a “mobile unlock” fee. Updates to Plex’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Service are also being implemented.

Data Privacy Commitment

The company has emphasized its commitment to user privacy, stating that it does not, nor will it, share or sell user data pertaining to personal media libraries or server usage.

However, the revised policies detail changes in how Plex shares user data, specifically regarding Plex activity, which is now linked to the user’s Account visibility and activity settings. The policies also provide further clarification on data sharing practices, including those related to advertising.

These new policies will be applicable to all new Plex account creations starting Thursday. Existing users will be prompted to accept the updated terms at a later time.

Justification for Price Changes

Plex states that these price adjustments are necessary to maintain the quality of service and support for its growing subscriber base and those utilizing Plex for personal media management.

The company intends to invest in new features, including an integration with Common Sense Media, bringing its age-appropriate ratings and reviews to Plex Pass subscribers.

Future Development Plans

Plex is currently developing a new server management application for both web and mobile platforms. An open API for server integrations is also in the works, as highlighted in a recent blog post.

Industry Trend

These changes follow a pattern of price increases observed in other prominent streaming services, including Netflix, Spotify, Hulu, Disney+, and YouTube TV.

Updates to Mobile Access

A one-time activation fee previously required to remove playback limitations on mobile devices (iOS and Android) when streaming from a Plex Media Server is being discontinued. This change will be effective upon the launch of the new mobile Plex experience.

Remote Playback Changes

Remote playback for personal media will transition to a paid feature. Users can either upgrade to a Plex Pass subscription or opt for a new Remote Watch Pass subscription. This new option is designed for users who do not operate their own server but wish to stream media from family or friends.

Remote Watch Pass Details

The Remote Watch Pass will be available starting April 29th at an introductory price of $1.99 per month or $19.99 per year.

Plex assures users that these decisions were carefully considered to ensure a continued balance between value and a high-quality personal media experience.

Note: It has been clarified that the Remote Watch subscription does not include Skip Intro and Skip Credits features. This article has been updated to reflect this information.