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Plex VR lets you virtually watch movies with your friends
- Joining the likes of Hulu and Netflix, Plex now has a VR version of its app.
- This app isn’t just a virtual theater, its also a social platform of sorts.
- The host requires Plex Pass subscription but can invite 3 guests (no Plex Pass needed) to co-view content.
- You can also talk to your guests while watching content together.
The idea of virtual movie theaters is nothing new. Netflix, Hulu, and many other streaming services already offer Google Daydream support. Now Plex is throwing its hat into the ring as well, though the popular media streaming app has a few social-focused tricks up its sleeves.
The new Plex VR app is separate from the main Plex app, designed for watching 3D, 360/180, and ‘traditional’ video in a VR environment. After first starting the app you’ll sign in and link to your Plex account, giving you the ability to watch any movie or show from your linked media servers. There’s also local media support so you can watch content from your Android device.
The Plex VR app is free and doesn’t require a Plex Pass account to use all the basic features, though having one opens up the real magic of the app: the social aspects.
If you are a Plex Pass user, you can invite up to three other friends to co-watch a show or movie with you. Thankfully the guests don’t have to have Plex Pass support.
The real magic of the Plex VR app is its social aspects.
Once in your viewing space, you can play content from your device or media servers, or you can access a guest’s media server if sharing is enabled. You can also talk to your guests, which will be represented by the avatar of their choice.
There are multiple virtual viewing spaces to choose from, ranging from apartments to a drive-in movie theater. The latter of which is exclusive to Plex Pass customers. Unlike some of its competition, Plex’s viewing spaces aren’t just static images, featuring interactive items like popcorn, cups, and more. You can even stack individual artwork cards for movies and shows onto your virtual couch/seat. Doing this creates a way to quickly access and switch between the shows/movies of your choice.
To get your hands on Plex VR, you’ll want to hit up the link below to check out the listing on Google Play.