Here at htpcBeginner, we're huge Plex fans. Ever since discovering Plex, my journey into cord cutting began. Though it's best known as a do-it-yourself (DIY) Netflix or Spotify, Plex far surpasses mere media server software. Rather, it's an entire home theatre PC (HTPC) experiance. Enhancements include DVR and live TV capabilities, a WinAMP clone, and Samsung Gear VR compatiblilty. Previously, we reported on a workaround to use Plex in a Google Daydream. Now, Plex comes to the Google Daydream with the official Plex VR app. [Read: 10 Best Plex client devices 2018]
Watch Plex on Google Daydream
Enjoying My Plex Media Server Content In Google Daydream
Google's Daydream is one of the top VR headsets available, with tons of compatible devices and an affordable price tag. Plus, it's got a bevy of games available. Video VR apps like Netflix and YouTube are available, and now Plex VR comes to Daydream. Using the official Plex VR app, you may easily and quickly watch Plex in VR. Features included in the new Plex Daydream app acording to a Jan. 24, 2018 blog post are:
Plex.
The ability to watch your Plex Media Server videos with friends, in real time, with voice chat!*
The ability to play local videos on your Android device (including 3D and 360/180 video)!
A fancy apartment that keeps itself clean, with fully automated, mechanized blinds.
A drive-in movie theater. The whole thing. For real.*
Various conflict-free potted plants.
Bragging rights.
A kitten.**
Note that a few of these items are virtual, such as the fancy apartment that keeps itself clean. Once you remove your Daydream headset, it's back to your cheap apartment with that pile of laundry which keeps being shuffled back and forth between the bed and that one armchair, and a sink of dirty dishes which you passive aggressively attempt to force your roommates to clean up. [Read: Troubleshooting Plex buffering - Solutions for when Plex keeps pausing]
Co-watching
The main feature of Plex VR is, of course, the massive virtual screen that occupies the majority of your field of vision. Essentially, it's like viewing your content on a large TV, but without the TV. However, one of the best elements is its co-watching aspect. With this, up to four users may watch the same content complete with real-time voice chat. There are several locations too, such as an apartment or drive-in. I've used Rabbit to co-watch movies with friends, but this official Plex VR co-watching feature is an amazing touch. [Read: 5 Reasons to use Plex instead of Kodi and 5 reasons not to]
It's limite to Plex Pass subscribers, but is free for a week. Outside of streaming your Plex media server, the Plex VR app can play back local files in 3D, 180, and 360.
Official Plex VR app for Daydream - Final thoughts
I love my Plex media server and client apps. The biggest feature I was hoping for actually was Daydream compatibility. Now, that's a (virtual reality). To be super meta, I can now watch "Brainstorm" or "The Lawnmower Man" in Plex VR with my Google Daydream. Thanks Plex for this huge update.
Your turn: Are you excited for the offficial Plex VR Google Daydream app? What will you stream in Plex VR first?
I am a staff writer at SmartHomeBeginner, and a freelance writer with a focus on tech media. I run Cup Of Moe and have been featured in Electromaker, MakeUseOf, The Penny Hoarder, TechBeacon, Cliqist, Bubbleblabber, DZone, and EpicStream. As an HTPC enthusiast, I'm quite fond of my Plex server and enjoy playing with my Raspberry Pi. When I'm not hammering away at my keyboard, I can be found drinking far too much coffee, running, and listening to vinyl.
