Kodi is a versatile media center software application capable of playing a wide range of media files, and it is available for various operating systems including Android, Windows, macOS, and iOS. Installation procedures differ depending on the target device. Users can enhance Kodi’s functionality through the installation of builds and add-ons, though enabling third-party sources is required for these installations. This guide details the installation process for several common platforms, as well as information regarding add-on installation.
Installing Kodi on Firestick
The Firestick platform does not natively support Kodi, necessitating a sideloading process. First, the Downloader app must be installed. Users should then enable the installation of applications from unknown sources via Settings > My Fire TV > Developer Options > Install Unknown Apps, specifically enabling Downloader. Kodi can then be downloaded by opening the Downloader app and entering the URL “https://kodi.tv/download/android”. Following the on-screen prompts will complete the installation.
Installing Kodi on Android Devices
Kodi can be installed on Android devices through the Google Play Store. Users simply open the Play Store, search for “Kodi,” and select “install.”
Installing Kodi on Windows
Installation on Windows varies depending on the version. For Windows 10 and 11, Kodi can be downloaded directly from the Microsoft Store. Users launch the Microsoft Store, search for “Kodi,” and click the “Get” button to begin the download and installation. For Windows 8.1 and older versions, Kodi must be downloaded from the official Kodi website. Users should select the appropriate installer (64-bit or 32-bit) based on their computer’s architecture.
Installing Kodi on macOS
To install Kodi on macOS, users must download the correct file from the official Kodi website. After navigating to the download section and selecting “macOS,” the installer (v22 Apple Silicon 64-BIT) should be downloaded. The downloaded DMG file is then opened, and the Kodi application is dragged into the “Applications” folder. macOS security settings may require adjustments to allow apps from unknown developers.
Installing Kodi on iOS Devices
Installation on iOS devices (iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch) offers multiple methods. For non-jailbroken devices, sideloading is required using tools like Cydia Impactor or Xcode (for Mac users). This involves manually downloading the Kodi IPA file and transferring it to the device. For jailbroken devices, Kodi can be installed directly through Cydia, or through third-party app stores such as TweakBox.
Installing Kodi on Android Smart TVs and TV Boxes
Android Smart TVs and TV Boxes typically have access to the Google Play Store, simplifying the installation process. Users can search for and install Kodi directly through the Play Store interface.
Installing Kodi Builds
Kodi builds are designed to improve the appearance and streamline access to content. Installing a build involves downloading repositories and installing them through Kodi. The process begins by navigating to Settings > System and toggling on “Unknown Sources” to allow third-party installations. Then, from the home screen, users go to Settings > File Manager, click “Add Source,” and enter a source URL (e.g., https://diggz1.me/diggzrepo). A name is assigned to the source, and the repository is installed via Add-ons > Install from Zip File. Once the repository is installed, users can find the build within the repository’s Program Add-ons section and install it. After installation, Kodi will prompt a restart to apply the new build interface.
Installing Kodi Add-ons
To install add-ons from unofficial sources, users must first enable unknown sources in Kodi’s settings (Settings > System > Add-ons, toggling on Unknown Sources). Next, the add-on source must be added through File Manager. This involves clicking “Add Source” and entering the source URL of the desired add-on (e.g., http://ezzer-mac.com/repo). After adding the source, users can install the repository associated with the add-on by navigating to Add-ons > Install from Zip File, selecting the added source, and installing the repository. Finally, the add-on can be installed from within the repository (Add-ons > Install from Repository), selecting the appropriate category and then the add-on itself. Popular add-ons mentioned include The Crew, Asgard, Homelander, The Magic Dragon, and The Loop.
Kodi User Interface Features
Kodi’s user interface is designed for ease of navigation. The left sidebar provides access to libraries and add-ons, facilitating content discovery.
Additional Installation Notes
When downloading Kodi for Windows, users should select the installer corresponding to their system’s architecture (64-bit or 32-bit). For macOS, opening the downloaded DMG file and dragging the Kodi application to the Applications folder initiates the installation. Security prompts may require adjustments in System Preferences. On Android, downloading Kodi via the Google Play Store is the simplest method. For Firestick, sideloading is necessary, requiring the Downloader app and enabling unknown sources.
Conclusion
Kodi offers a flexible and customizable media center experience across a variety of platforms. Installation procedures vary depending on the operating system, ranging from simple installations through app stores to more complex sideloading processes. Enabling unknown sources is crucial for installing builds and add-ons, expanding Kodi’s functionality. Understanding these installation steps allows users to tailor Kodi to their specific needs and preferences.