Feature Request: Custom OpenAI API URL Checkbox for Enhanced Flexibility

Feature Suggestions
1

Hello Plex Community and Developers,

I’m reaching out to propose a valuable feature enhancement that would greatly benefit users who run OpenAI-compatible language models (LLMs) locally or on their own servers. This request is particularly relevant for those utilizing programs like LocalAI and LiteLLM, which currently require complex workarounds to function seamlessly with Plex.

Feature Request: Custom OpenAI API URL Checkbox

Currently, to redirect requests intended for api.openai.com to a local or custom server, users must employ a MITM (Man-In-The-Middle) proxy—a process that can be technically challenging and cumbersome. To simplify this, I propose the addition of a simple checkbox option:

Use Custom OpenAI API URL: This feature would allow users to enter custom IP addresses or URLs, enabling seamless integration with local or self-hosted LLMs.

Additional Options for Flexibility:

  • Allow HTTP Addresses: Enable users to specify HTTP URLs.
  • Ignore HTTPS Self-Signed Certificates: Provide an option to bypass certificate validation for self-signed certificates, easing the setup process for local servers.

Benefits:

  • Enhanced Customization: Users can leverage open-source models and local inference-compatible APIs that fully emulate the OpenAI API, including multimodal capabilities with the right models.
  • Cost Efficiency: Enables self-hosters, who comprise a significant portion of the Plex user base, to utilize their resources without being constrained by mandatory API usage fees.
  • Advanced User Empowerment: While this feature can be marked as advanced or in indefinite beta, it empowers users with technical expertise to create a more flexible and less restrictive system.

Future AI Integration in Plex Media Server:

This request also sets a precedent for future AI integrations within Plex Media Server. By adopting this flexible approach, Plex can expand its AI capabilities, ensuring that all AI-related features are accessible and customizable for users who prefer local or self-hosted solutions.

This feature would align with Plex’s commitment to user empowerment and customization, making it a valuable addition for the community. I believe that by implementing this option, Plex can continue to support its self-hosting users effectively.

Thank you for considering this request. I encourage fellow community members to support this proposal by voting and sharing your thoughts.

2

I agree! This would be great, especially since more and more home hardware has AI hardware integrated. Even Rasperry Pi 5 has at least two add-on hardware pieces.

2 Likes
3

Hello everyone,

I’m a regular Plexamp user and really appreciate the features the application offers. Currently, I’ve purchased a lifetime Plex pass during Black Friday. It’s possible to use OpenAI’s API key via Sonic Sage, which is nice. However, I’d like to suggest an improvement that would allow the use of API keys from other providers, such as MistralAI.
I’d like to use my existing MistralAI apis.

Thank you.

2 Likes
4

Please keep adding support, let’s get this on the roadmap. Thanks to those who have already.

1 Like