"Plex has previously emphasized its need to keep up with "rising costs," which include providing support for many different devices and codecs. It has also said that it needs money to implement new features, including an integration with Common Sense Media, a new "bespoke server management app" for managing server users, and "an open and documented API for server integrations," including custom metadata agents," per a March blog post."
"However, Plex's evolution could isolate long-time users who have relied on Plex as a media server for years and those who aren't interested in subscriptions, FAST (free ad-supported streaming TV) channels, or renting movies. Plex is unlikely to give up on its streaming business, though. In 2023, Scott Hancock, Plex's then-VP of marketing, said that Plex had more people using its online streaming service than using its media server features since 2022."
Plex cited rising costs including support for many different devices and codecs. Plex identified the need for funding to implement new features such as an integration with Common Sense Media, a bespoke server management app for managing server users, and an open and documented API for server integrations including custom metadata agents. Plex raised $40 million in funding in early 2024 and was nearing profitability. New remote-access rules can increase subscription revenue and provide returns to investors. Plex's shift toward streaming and subscriptions risks isolating long-time media-server users uninterested in FAST channels or rentals. Open-source alternatives like Jellyfin are growing more attractive for media-hosting-focused users.
Read at Ars Technica
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