Plex Expands Its Features with Auto-Sync Functionality
Plex, the widely acclaimed media server and streaming application, has unveiled a new Auto-Sync feature aimed at rectifying subtitle timing issues for movies and shows. This enhancement will ensure that subtitles are displayed in sync with the corresponding audio.
How It Works
According to Plex’s official blog, the Auto-Sync subtitles functionality relies on an advanced algorithm running on the Plex server. This algorithm analyzes audio tracks to detect vocal elements, thereby aligning subtitles to appear at the appropriate moments on the screen. The current iteration supports external SRT subtitle files as well as those sourced from OpenSubtitles.com, with promises of further format support in future updates.
Usage Considerations
For users who find that the Auto-Sync toggle is inactive, it may indicate a problem with the necessary settings. Notably, subtitle syncing won’t function on certain Plex Media Server setups that lack voice activity detection capabilities, such as FreeBSD, Nvidia Shield, and various NAS systems.
A Plex Pass subscription is mandatory for both server administrators and local device accounts to enable this feature. Additionally, users must activate voice activity detection along with media analysis on their Plex server to benefit from subtitle resynchronization. While some Plex users have turned to third-party applications like Bazarr for resolving out-of-sync subtitles, having an integrated function is undeniably more convenient. Bazarr does offer its own advantages, such as automatic subtitle resyncing with new video additions.
Additional Plex Announcements
In other news, Plex is diversifying its offerings by launching additional applications, one of which is a new photo management app currently in open beta. This tool allows users to sync photos and videos to their Plex server while providing an easy-to-navigate gallery interface. It serves as an effective alternative to solutions like Google Photos or Apple’s Photos app, yet with the benefit of keeping all data stored locally.
Plex is currently offering 20% off a Lifetime Plex Pass subscription, reducing the one-time fee from $120 to $100. This subscription provides access to all Plex features and exclusive benefits.
Source: Plex, Plex Support
