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How to Use Kodi on Android TV
Edited 3 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
KodiStreamingMedia PlayerSmart TVAndroidAppsMultimediaElectronicsVideoHome Entertainment
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Kodi is a powerful, open-source media player that allows users to play, organize, and enjoy streaming content on a variety of devices. One such device is Android TV, which is becoming increasingly popular due to its capabilities and ease of use. In this comprehensive guide, we will learn how to use Kodi on Android TV, detailing each step from installation to maximizing its features. This guide uses simple English to ensure clarity and ease of understanding.
Introduction to Kodi
Kodi, originally known as XBMC (Xbox Media Center), is a versatile media player software designed for playing digital media content. It supports various media formats and can be extended with a wide variety of add-ons. The open-source nature of Kodi allows developers to create plugins and significantly expand its capabilities. It is an excellent choice for those who want a personalized media viewing experience.
Getting started: Installing Kodi on Android TV
Installing Kodi on your Android TV can be accomplished in a few easy steps. Here's how you can do it:
- Turn on your Android TV: Make sure your Android TV is turned on and connected to the Internet.
- Open the Google Play Store: Go to the Google Play Store, which is the official app store for Android devices.
- Search for Kodi: Type and search for "Kodi" using the search bar. Kodi's application should appear in the search results.
- Install Kodi: Open its page by clicking on the Kodi icon and then click on the 'Install' button. The app will automatically download and install on your Android TV.
- Launch Kodi: Once installed, you can find Kodi in your apps list. Click the icon to launch it.
Setting up Kodi
After installing Kodi, you will want to set it up the way you like it. Here are some initial steps you can follow:
- Configure settings: Open Kodi, then go to Settings by selecting the gear icon. Adjust settings such as 'Media', 'Interface', and 'Player' to suit your needs.
- Organize media content: Go to 'Files' within the Kodi interface where you can add your media library such as movies, music, and photos. This allows Kodi to scan and organize your files.
- Set up add-ons: Add-ons extend Kodi's functionality by providing access to various online services and content. Locate the official Kodi add-on repository or install third-party add-ons by enabling 'Unknown Sources' under the Settings menu.
Navigating the Kodi interface
Kodi's interface is user-friendly, and understanding it better will improve your experience. Here's a description of its basic components:
- Home screen: This is the main menu area where you can access different sections, including Movies, TV Shows, Music, Add-ons, and Settings.
- Media Libraries: Kodi allows you to create libraries for your multimedia based on type (e.g., movies, TV shows). These libraries categorize your content, making it easier to navigate and play.
- Add-on Browser: This feature lets you manage your add-ons, providing options to install new add-ons, configure existing add-ons, or view installed add-ons.
Accessing and playing media content
To access and play media content, follow these steps:
- Go to your media library: Go to the section (Movies, Music, etc.) that contains the media you want.
- Select a media file: Browse or use the search feature to find the specific media file you want to play.
- Play media: Click on a media file, and it will begin playing. The playback interface provides controls for pause, play, stop, forward, and rewind.
Using Kodi add-ons
As mentioned earlier, add-ons play a vital role in making Kodi highly customizable and functional. Here is how to improve your Kodi experience with add-ons:
- Explore add-ons: Go to the add-on browser by selecting 'Add-ons' from the home screen. Browse through categories such as video, music, and program add-ons.
- Install the add-on: Select the add-on and click 'Install'. Follow any additional instructions on the screen. Installed add-ons can be accessed from this toolbar.
- Configure add-ons: Many add-ons come with configurable settings that tailor their performance to your preferences. Check the settings within each add-on for useful customization options.
Connecting external media sources
Android TV and Kodi support connecting external media sources, such as USB drives and external hard drives. Follow these instructions to connect and access your content:
- Add an external drive: Plug your USB drive or external hard drive into an available USB port on your Android TV.
- Grant access permissions: Most Android TVs will ask you for permissions to access and read your external device.
- Add to Kodi: In Kodi, go to 'Files' and select 'Add Source'. Select your connected device as the source. Kodi will scan the media and integrate it into your library.
Networking and streaming content
Kodi's network capabilities allow it to seamlessly stream content from shared networks and online sources. Configure the streaming setup:
- Set up network sharing: If you have media files on other devices, make sure sharing is enabled. On Windows, sharing can be set up through the 'Network and Sharing Center'. On macOS, sharing is configured through 'System Preferences'.
- Add network location to Kodi: In Kodi, go to 'Files', select 'Add Video', then 'Browse', and select 'Add network location'. Configure network sharing details such as protocol, server address, and share name.
- Stream online content: Use add-ons for popular streaming services. Configure the necessary credentials and settings for services like YouTube or Netflix, depending on their policies on Kodi support.
Troubleshooting common problems
Although Kodi is largely user-friendly, some problems can still arise. Here is a description of common problems and solutions:
- Kodi crashes or freezes: Clear Kodi's cache by going to Android TV's settings, select 'Apps', find Kodi and clear its cache. Disable hardware acceleration in Kodi's player settings as this sometimes causes issues.
- Performance is slow: Make sure there is enough system memory (RAM) available. Close other running apps to free up resources.
- Add-ons not working: Verify that the add-on is up to date and the repository source is active. Reinstall the add-on if necessary.
Customizing Kodi format
The desired aesthetic can enhance usability and enjoyment. Customize Kodi's appearance through these steps:
- Change the skin: Go to Settings > Interface > Skins. Choose a new skin by choosing from the default list or by installing a custom skin.
- Configure home screen options: Under the same settings path, adjust what appears on your home screen and change the background art or logo.
Keeping Kodi updated
Keeping your Kodi installation updated is important to ensure security and access to the latest features:
- Check for Updates: Go to the Google Play Store on your Android TV, search for Kodi, and see if there’s an update option available.
- Automatic updates: Enable automatic updates to always have the latest version on the Play Store.
Conclusion
Using Kodi on Android TV opens up a world of media possibilities. With its powerful interface and ability to cater to a wide variety of content, Kodi can turn your Android TV into a complete media center. By following this guide, you should be able to install, navigate, customize, and optimize Kodi to improve your viewing experience. Whether you want to stream online, play local files, or explore a plethora of add-ons, Kodi provides the flexibility and power needed to enjoy media content to the fullest.
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