Plex is now enforcing remote play restrictions on TVs
Plex has confirmed that it will need a Remote Watch Pass or Plex Pass for remote streaming on its TV apps. The change takes effect first for the Roku app, followed by all other TV apps and third-party clients in 2026.
Earlier this year, Plex increased the price of Plex Pass and stopped supporting any workarounds for remote streaming, such as adding a custom server connection in the app settings. The company said at the time: “The reality is that we need more resources to continue to deliver the best personal media experience and, as a result, we will no longer offer Remote Play as a free feature.” » This is also when Plex introduced Remote Watch Pass as a cheaper way to re-enable streaming remotely.
Plex is currently rolling out the remote monitoring changes to its Roku TV app. This means you’ll need a Plex Pass or Remote Watch Pass for your Plex account if you want to stream media from a server outside your home. Even if the remote server owner has Plex Pass, you still need one of the passes to watch media from it. If you only watch media from your own server at home and the TV is on the same network, you don’t need to do anything.
Plex gains more artwork customization options
Plex Media Server owners can finally customize the logo and square artwork for titles in their personal libraries, bringing a professional touch to local collections. This feature is similar to how we have been able to customize posters and backgrounds for years.
Plex says this change will affect other TV apps in 2026, such as Fire TV, Apple TV and Android TV. Presumably this will happen when the redesigned app hits these platforms. Roku was just the first TV platform to receive the new app, leading to a wave of user complaints about feature removal and a clunkier redesign. Plex is addressing some of these complaints with more updates, but adding another limitation at the same time isn’t a good idea.
The Remote Watch Pass costs $2 per month or $20 per year, but there is no lifetime purchase option. You can also use a Plex Pass, which normally costs $7 per month, $70 per year, or $250 for a lifetime license. However, there is currently a 40% discount on Plex Pass subscriptions.
If you only need remote access and nothing else, just get the Remote Watch Pass. Plex said in its announcement: “This is a great option for users who aren’t using their own server and are looking to stream from a server owned by a friend or family member who doesn’t have a Plex Pass. It’s also a good alternative for server owners who may not need the full feature offering of a Plex Pass, but are looking for a more cost-effective option for accessing their media remotely.
Source: Plex Forums
