I think it is time to ask: Are Plex HTPC and Plex for Mac/Windows/Linux dead? Plex HTPC has not had an update since last July Plex for Mac/Windows/Linux has had only one update since May and that was to support the web update for editing some metadata on the server .

The lack of any further staff response tell me there isn’t a plan for the desktop apps but at best, a plan to have a plan. So with lack of any concrete information on the future of the Desktop apps, I will give you my predictions. First, here’s what can be seen from what is already been public in …

They are dead and anyone saying otherwise is naive.

[image] pshanew: You asked your question. It was answered. You’ve tried to scare the community into thinking Plex desktop players are dead. The answer was insufficient and so I’ve expounded on the original question, namely what is going to be the nature of these plans. Perhaps you should re-…

I think the future wildcard will be the steam machine. If either desktop apps can be easily installed and used, especially if there is support for a good remote control, I think steam machine will become the new shield. There is also the possibility of steam machine <> android support, so in theor…

[image] TeknoJunky: If either desktop apps can be easily installed and used, especially if there is support for a good remote control, I think steam machine will become the new shield. The Shield Pro has already been replaced by the Ugoos AM6B+ and a few other devices like OSMC Vero V now (fo…

Those are some good counters. I can only speak for myself, but I have high hopes for steam machine. I intend to replace my shield, xbox, apple tv, and current/future desktops with a SM, and while those other options might be cheaper and compelling, they won’t be a steam machine.

There has actually been a resurgence of HTPC locally. People in our various user groups are dropping streaming subs and consolidating their computers and media viewing into one machine with personal media. The second hand market for laptops and ex business desktop servers has grown as people revise…

Fair enough. I’m still interested to see what kind of ecosystem the steam machine can offer especially if it can do proper HDR + full passthrough and not have any codec issues. But after the Xbox Series X/S I am more inclined to believe dedicated players designed for home theatre use are the way for…

[image] TeknoJunky: If either desktop apps can be easily installed and used, especially if there is support for a good remote control, I think steam machine will become the new shield. That would be terrible, if for no other reason than the steam machine is not a streaming device in any sense…

Well, this discussion is about DESKTOP APPS, which by definition is a full blown pc and subject to the pros and cons of such.

[image] TeknoJunky: This discussion is about DESKTOP APPS, which by definition is a full blown pc :man_shrugging: You’re the one who brought it up. HTPCs have been around for a long time, and the comparison ignores the limitations that actually led to the development of OTT device products. …

Are the Desktop Apps Dead?

Plex Players

pshanew April 11, 2026, 7:10pm 55

Install Kodi 21+ on your Linux client system. Install the PM4K add-on.

I’m sure that Plex will sort this out in the end, but that’s your best option for the time being. As long as you don’t need live TV.

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Are the Desktop Apps Dead?

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