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Kodi, the renowned open-source media player, has become a staple for many entertainment enthusiasts worldwide. Its customizable nature, combined with a vast array of add-ons, offers a tailored viewing experience like no other. However, like all software, Kodi evolves, and with each new version comes enhanced features, improved performance, and critical security patches. But if you are not updating it periodically, you’re missing out on faster speeds, cool features, and worse, critical security updates to keep hackers at bay.
Kodi updates aren’t any different than your mobile phone updates. Staying updated ensures you get the best out of Kodi, both in terms of entertainment and safety. Miss a couple, and suddenly your slick Plex experience feels like multiple Discord breaks. Buffering like you’re back in the 90s? Check. Add-ons crashing mid-movie? Double check. Even worse, using an older version can leave your system vulnerable to shady plugins or ISP spying (especially if you use unofficial add-ons).
So, how do you prevent Kodi from burying the last bones of your digital experience? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to update Kodi, ensuring you’re always at the forefront of its offerings. So, whether you’re a Kodi newbie or a seasoned user, let’s dive in and keep your media center up-to-date!
Update Kodi on Your Preferred Device – Step-by-Step Guide
1. How to Update Kodi – Step by Step for Windows
Every time a new stable version of Kodi is released, it’s recommended to update to benefit from new features, bug fixes, performance improvements, and security updates. Keeping your Kodi updated ensures you enjoy the best streaming experience and the latest enhancements the software has to offer.
Here’s how you can update Kodi on a Windows platform:
- Visit the Kodi Download Page: Navigate to Kodi’s official download page.
- Select the Windows Platform: Scroll down and click on the Windows icon.
- Download the Installer: Click on INSTALLER (64BIT). The Kodi installation file will start downloading to your computer.
- Execute the Installer: Once the download is finished, click on the downloaded file to run it.
- Proceed with Installation: In the welcome screen, click Next. Accept the license agreement by clicking I agree. In the “Choose Components” screen, leave all the components checked and click Next.
- Choose Installation Folder: Select the destination folder for Kodi and click Next.
- Overwrite Previous Installation: A popup might appear asking if you want to overwrite the previous installation. Click Yes and then click OK.
- Select Start Menu Folder: You can select a start menu folder, create a new folder, or opt not to create shortcuts by checking “Do not create shortcuts.” After making your choice, click Install.
- Finish Installation: Wait for the installation to complete and then click Finish.
By following these steps, you should have the latest version of Kodi installed on your Windows device.
2. How to Upgrade Kodi on Mac: A Fool-Proof Method
Updating apps should never seem like a game of chess. Upgrading Kodi on your Mac is easier than you imagined – if you only stay within the official method. Third-party installers? They’re sketchy shortcuts; only use them if you want to risk crashing your streaming party. Here is how to obtain the most up-to-date features, security updates, and buttery smooth performance on Kodi with your Mac PC without all of the stress.
Step 1: Download the latest version (the safe way)
1. Go to Kodi’s Official Site
Open Safari (or your preferred search engine), and go straight to Kodi.tv/download. It’s always best to download from a legitimate site as unofficial sites will sometimes package in “extras” like adware – no thanks.
2. Select the macOS Version
Click the Apple logo. You have two options:
- 64-bit installer – for the majority of new Macs (2012 and above).
- Legacy builds – if you’re on an old Mac (pre-2012).
Step 2: Install in 2 Clicks
1. Open the .dmg file
Double-click on the file you just downloaded. A window opens displaying the Kodi logo.
2. Drag & Drop into Applications
Drag the Kodi icon into your Applications folder. And boom, you’re done!
Overwriting? If you already have Kodi, this is just replacing the old version with the new version. Don’t worry, your add-ons & settings will stay intact (thank goodness).
Wait… Is Kodi Blocked by macOS?
Is Gatekeeper Telling You No Go?
If it says “Kodi cannot be opened because it’s from an unidentified developer”:
- Right-click the Kodi app → Open.
- Click Open again in the pop-up.
- After this step, your future updates will be installed without incident.
Pro Tips to Avoid Disaster
Backup Your Kodi Setup (Just in Case)
- Manual Backup: Navigate to ~/Library/Application Support/Kodi, copy the “userdata” folder, and save it somewhere like iCloud or a USB drive.
- Time Machine: Let Apple’s built-in time machine do all of the work for you.
Restart your Mac after the updates you’ve made: This helps to delete any possible glitches. This takes 30 seconds of your time and saves you from wondering “Why is my add-on broken?!”
Using a VPN?
Make sure to connect to your VPN (a good one like NordVPN) before updating. It will help shield your ISP from snooping on your Kodi traffic, which is especially useful if you’re using add-ons that are region-locked.
3. Updating Kodi on Linux Systems
Linux users have several options for updating Kodi, depending on their distribution:
Ubuntu/Debian-based Distributions
# Add the Kodi repository if not already added.
- Use this: sudo apt-add-repository ppa:team-xbmc/ppa sudo apt update.
# Install/update Kodi.
sudo apt install kodi.
Fedora
sudo dnf upgrade kodi.
Arch Linux
sudo pacman -Syu kodi.
Troubleshooting Linux Updates
- Repository Issues: If you encounter “Unable to locate package” errors, ensure the Kodi repository is properly added and your system is up to date.
- Dependency Problems: Try sudo apt –fix-broken install on Debian-based systems to resolve dependency issues.
- Permission Errors: Make sure you’re using sudo when required and that your user has sufficient privileges.
4. Updating Kodi on Android Devices
Android users can update Kodi through the Google Play Store or directly via APK:
Via Google Play Store (Recommended)
- Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
- Tap on your profile icon in the top right.
- Select “Manage apps & device”.
- Look for Kodi under “Updates available” and tap “Update”.
Via Direct APK Download (Advanced)
- Enable installation from unknown sources in Settings → Security or Settings → Apps → Special access → Install unknown apps.
- Download the latest Kodi APK from the official website.
- Open the downloaded APK file and follow the installation prompts.
- When asked if you want to replace the existing application, select “Yes”.
5. Updating Kodi on Amazon Fire TV Stick
Fire TV devices require a different approach since the Amazon Appstore doesn’t include Kodi:
- Install Downloader App: From the Fire TV home screen, search for and install the “Downloader” app.
- Enable Installation from Unknown Sources: Go to Settings → My Fire TV → Developer Options → Apps from Unknown Sources → Turn ON.
- Access Kodi’s Download Page: Open Downloader and enter the URL: kodi.tv/download in the address bar.
- Download the Android APK: Navigate to the Android section and select the ARM version (most Fire TVs use ARM architecture).
- Install and Replace: Once downloaded, the installation will start automatically. When prompted to replace the existing app, select “Install.”
- Clear Cache After Update: After updating, go to Settings → Applications → Manage Installed Applications → Kodi → Clear Cache to ensure optimal performance.
Troubleshooting Fire TV Updates:
- “App Not Installed” Error: This usually occurs when your Fire TV is running out of storage. Go to Settings → Applications → Manage Installed Applications and uninstall unused apps to free up space.
- Slow Performance After Update: Clear both cache and data (warning: clearing data will reset Kodi to default settings).
6. Updating Kodi on Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi users often run LibreELEC or OSMC (specialized Kodi distributions):
For LibreELEC
- From the Kodi interface, go to LibreELEC Settings → System → Update.
- Select “Manual update” to check for updates immediately.
- If an update is available, select “Update now”.
- Wait for the download and installation to complete, then reboot when prompted.
For OSMC
- From the Kodi interface, go to My OSMC → Updates.
- Select “Manual Controls” and then “Check for Updates”.
- If updates are available, select “Update” and wait for the process to complete.
- Reboot your Raspberry Pi when prompted.
Troubleshooting: Quick Fixes
You’re Launching Kodi, and it crashes?
- Reinstall: Remove the app, redownload from Kodi.tv, and drag to Applications.
- Check for macOS Updates: The updated version of the OS messes with Kodi builds.
Are add-ons acting up after an update?
Unofficial add-ons like Exodus or The Crew usually break after an update. Only use repos that actively update their code. If you have trouble with add-ons, check for fixes on the Kodi official forums.
Done all of those? Now, grab some popcorn – your Kodi has been updated to the latest version and is ready to stream, organize, and binge-watch like a pro.
And don’t forget, if you are having trouble, the Kodi community is there for you, and the subreddit r/Addons4Kodi is always a great place to troubleshoot.
Backing Up Kodi Before Updating
Before any update, it’s crucial to back up your Kodi setup to prevent data loss:
Using Kodi’s Built-in Backup Add-on
- Go to Add-ons → Download → Program Add-ons → Backup.
- Install the official Backup add-on.
- Launch the add-on and select “Backup”.
- Choose what to back up (recommended: everything).
- Select a destination folder (preferably on external storage).
- Click “Proceed” and wait for the backup to complete.
Manual Backup Method
For Windows:
- Navigate to %APPDATA%\Kodi\userdata\.
- Copy this folder to a safe location (external drive or cloud storage).
For macOS:
- Navigate to /Users/[YourUsername]/Library/Application Support/Kodi/userdata/.
- Copy this folder to a safe location.
For Linux:
- Navigate to ~/.kodi/userdata/.
- Copy this folder to a safe location.
For Android:
- Use a file manager app to navigate to /Android/data/org.xbmc.kodi/files/.kodi/userdata/.
- Copy this folder to external storage.
Pro Tip: Take a screenshot of your installed add-ons before updating. Go to Add-ons → My Add-ons, and take screenshots of each category. This gives you a visual reference of what needs to be reinstalled if something goes wrong.
Best Tools to Update Kodi: Your Options
Updating Kodi is essential, but ensuring that the process is safe and secure is equally crucial. Various methods can help you achieve this, but not all are created equal. Let’s delve into three primary options: VPNs, Smart DNS, and Proxy Servers.
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
VPNs are the gold standard when it comes to online security and privacy. When updating Kodi, using a VPN ensures that your connection is encrypted, protecting you from potential threats and prying eyes. Moreover, VPNs mask your IP address, ensuring that your online activities remain anonymous. This is especially crucial when downloading updates from sources that might be geo-restricted. With a VPN, you can access updated servers from any region, ensuring you always get the latest version of Kodi.
How to Configure a VPN for Kodi Updates
1. Subscribe to a VPN Service: Sign up for a reputable VPN service (recommendations below).
2. Install the VPN App: Download and install the VPN application on the same device running Kodi.
3. Configure Split Tunneling (if available):
- Open your VPN app’s settings
- Look for “Split Tunneling” or “App-based Routing”
- Add Kodi to the list of apps that use the VPN connection
- This ensures only Kodi traffic goes through the VPN, maintaining speed for other applications
4. Enable the Kill Switch:
- Find the “Kill Switch” option in your VPN settings
- Enable it to prevent IP leaks if the VPN connection drops
- This ensures your real IP is never exposed during Kodi updates or streaming
5. Connect to a Suitable Server:
- For updates: Choose a nearby server for maximum speed
- For accessing geo-restricted content: Select a server in the appropriate country
5. Launch Kodi After VPN Connection: Always make sure your VPN is connected before opening Kodi.
Smart DNS
Smart DNS is a technology that tweaks your DNS settings to bypass geo-restrictions. While it can help access update servers from different regions, it doesn’t offer the encryption and security benefits that VPNs provide. It’s a quicker method, tailored mainly for streaming, but when it comes to downloading and updating software like Kodi, security should be a priority.
How to Set Up Smart DNS for Kodi
1. Subscribe to a Smart DNS Service: Sign up with a provider that offers Smart DNS functionality.
2. Get Your Smart DNS Server Addresses: Your provider will give you primary and secondary DNS server addresses.
3. Configure Your Device’s DNS Settings:
- For Windows: Go to Network Connections → Right-click your active connection → Properties → Internet Protocol Version 4 → Use the following DNS server addresses
- For macOS: System Preferences → Network → Advanced → DNS → Add the DNS servers
- For Android: Settings → Wi-Fi → Long press your connection → Modify network → Advanced options → IP settings → Static → Enter DNS servers
4. Restart Your Device: This ensures the new DNS settings take effect.
5. Verify Setup: Many Smart DNS providers offer verification pages to confirm your setup is working correctly.
Proxy Servers
Proxy servers act as intermediaries between your device and the internet. They can help bypass geo-restrictions, but they come with their own set of challenges. Unlike VPNs, proxy servers might not encrypt your data, making the update process potentially vulnerable. Additionally, they can be slower and less reliable, especially if the proxy server has a lot of traffic.
How to Configure a Proxy in Kodi
1. Open Kodi Settings: From the Kodi home screen, go to Settings (gear icon).
2. Access System Settings: Select “System.”
3. Navigate to Internet Access: Find and select “Internet Access.”
4. Configure Proxy Settings:
- Enable “Use a proxy to access the internet”
- Enter the proxy server address and port
- If required, enter username and password
- Choose the proxy type (HTTP or SOCKS)
5. Save and Restart Kodi: After configuring the proxy, restart Kodi to apply the changes.
Warning: Free proxies often monitor and sell your browsing data. Only use trusted, paid proxy services for sensitive activities like streaming or updating Kodi.
The Best VPNs for Secure Kodi Updates
When updating Kodi, it’s essential to prioritize security and reliability. VPNs are the go-to solution, but which ones stand out in the crowded market? Let’s explore three top-tier VPNs that promise not only to keep your Kodi updates safe but also to enhance your overall online experience.
1. NordVPN
Recommended Guide: NordVPN Review
NordVPN, with its impressive tally of 7,400+ servers across 110+ countries, is a force to be reckoned with in the VPN domain. This extensive network ensures that users can access update servers from virtually any region, making Kodi updates a breeze. But NordVPN isn’t just about numbers.
- NordVPN is the industry leader (by a long way)
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Superfast speeds
- 7,300+ servers in 115+ countries
- Strict no-logs policy
- Next-generation military-grade encryption
- DoubleVPN, double privacy
- 10 simultaneous device connections
- Great for: Safety, security, anonymity & peace of mind
- Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, iPad & iOS, Linux, routers, Apple TV, FireFox, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and more
Its commitment to user security is evident in its advanced encryption protocols, ensuring that every byte of data is shielded from potential threats. Furthermore, NordVPN’s DoubleVPN feature adds an extra layer of protection, routing your traffic through two servers instead of one. This is especially beneficial when downloading updates, as it adds an extra layer of anonymity. With a user-centric interface and a reputation for maintaining high speeds, NordVPN ensures that your Kodi updates are both swift and secure.
Kodi-Specific Setup Steps:
- Install NordVPN on your device.
- Open the app and log in.
- Go to Settings → Auto-connect → Enable “Choose a VPN protocol and server automatically”.
- Enable the Kill Switch feature.
- Under Advanced settings, enable CyberSec.
- Connect to a server (recommended: use the “Quick Connect” feature for optimal performance).
- Launch Kodi only after the VPN connection is established.
Price: Subscription plans start at $3.69/month for a 2-year plan.
Why It’s Great for Kodi
- Obfuscated Servers: These specialized servers hide the fact that you’re using a VPN, making it ideal for users in countries with heavy internet restrictions or where Kodi repositories might be blocked.
- SmartPlay Technology: A feature that combines VPN and Smart DNS capabilities, allowing seamless access to geo-restricted Kodi add-ons without complicated setup.
- CyberSec Feature: Blocks ads and malicious domains, providing an additional layer of protection against potentially harmful Kodi add-ons.
- Blazing-fast WireGuard speeds.
- Double VPN encryption.
- Audited no-logs policy.
- 7,400+ global servers.
- Works in China.
- Premium pricing tier.
- No free trial.
2. Surfshark
Recommended Guide: Surfshark VPN Review
Surfshark VPN, though housing fewer servers than NordVPN, offers an expansive reach with its 3200+ servers located in 100+ countries. This vast coverage guarantees that Kodi enthusiasts can access the latest updates regardless of geo-restrictions. But Surfshark’s appeal goes beyond its server count.
- Surfshark is the best budget VPN
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Strict no-logs policy
- 3200+ servers in 100 countries
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- Great for: private browsing on a budget
- Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone & iOS, Linux, FireFox, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and more
Its MultiHop feature allows users to connect via multiple countries simultaneously, further obfuscating their digital footprint. This is a boon for those keen on maintaining the utmost privacy during their Kodi updates. Additionally, Surfshark’s CleanWeb technology ensures that users are shielded from malware, phishing attempts, and unwanted ads. With a no-logs policy and the ability to connect unlimited devices under one subscription, Surfshark offers both value and top-tier security for Kodi aficionados.
Kodi-Specific Setup Steps:
- Install Surfshark on your device.
- Open the app and sign in.
- Go to Settings → Configure → Enable “Auto-connect” and “Kill Switch”.
- Enable CleanWeb for additional protection.
- For Android TV or Fire Stick: Enable “Override GPS location” to match your VPN location.
- Connect to a server and then launch Kodi.
Price: Subscription plans start at $2.49/month for a 2-year plan.
Why It’s Ideal for Multi-Device Kodi Users
- Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: Perfect for households with multiple Kodi devices (TVs, tablets, Fire Sticks, etc.).
- CleanWeb Feature: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware, enhancing safety when exploring new Kodi add-ons.
- Whitelister: Allows specific apps to bypass the VPN while keeping Kodi protected (useful for devices running multiple applications).
- Unlimited device connections.
- Budget-friendly long-term plans.
- Camouflage Mode stealth.
- CleanWeb ad-blocker.
- 100+ country servers.
- Smaller server network.
- Inconsistent peak speeds.
3. Proton VPN
Recommended Guide: Proton VPN Review
Proton VPN is a Kodi user’s stealthy sidekick, blending privacy and unblocking power. Its Swiss-based no-logs policy and Secure Core servers ensure your streaming habits stay private, while the VPN’s high-speed 10 Gbps connections handle 4K add-ons without buffering. For Kodi fans tired of ISP throttling or geo-blocks, Proton’s Tor-over-VPN option adds an extra layer of anonymity when accessing third-party repositories.
Unlike sketchy free VPNs that leak data, Proton’s NetShield blocks ads and malware lurking in dodgy Kodi add-ons—critical when exploring unofficial builds. Paid users get P2P support on specific servers (ideal for Real-Debrid integration), though the free tier lacks torrenting and limits speeds. Just avoid Swiss servers for Kodi; their strict privacy laws sometimes slow down peer connections.
Proton’s Stealth mode bypasses VPN detection, so you can access geo-restricted content (like BBC iPlayer via Kodi) without tripping alarms. While it won’t magically fix broken add-ons, its open-source apps guarantee no sneaky data collection—a rarity in the VPN world. For Kodi users who value privacy over flashy features, Proton is the Swiss watch of streaming protection.
Kodi-Specific Setup Steps:
- Create a free Proton VPN account
- Download and install the appropriate app for your device
- Sign in to the app
- For free users: Select one of the available free servers
- Enable “Always-on VPN” (if available on your platform)
- Connect to the VPN before launching Kodi
Price: Free tier available; paid plans start at $4.99/month.
Why It’s Good for Occasional Kodi Users
- Free Tier Available: Offers a truly free option with unlimited bandwidth but is limited to servers in 5 countries.
- Strong Security Focus: Created by the same team behind ProtonMail, with a strong emphasis on privacy.
- Transparent Logging Policy: Clear no-logs policy verified by independent audits.
- Swiss privacy laws.
- Secure Core servers.
- Free tier available.
- No-logs policy audited.
- Tor-over-VPN support.
- Free version throttled.
- Fewer streaming optimizations.
VPN Comparison Table for Kodi Users
Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark | Proton VPN (Free) |
Best for | Users in restricted regions | Multiple Kodi devices | Budget-conscious users |
Server Countries | 118+ | 100+ | 5 (free tier) |
Kodi-optimized Servers | Yes | Yes | No |
Kill Switch | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Split Tunneling | Yes | Yes | Limited |
Device Limit | 10 | Unlimited | 1 (free tier) |
Cost | $3.69/mo (2yr) | $2.49/mo (2yr) | Free / $4.99/mo |
Key Considerations When Updating Kodi
Updating Kodi is more than just clicking a few buttons. To ensure a seamless and secure experience, it’s vital to be aware of certain aspects. Here are five pivotal considerations to keep in mind:
1. Backup Your Data Properly
Don’t just back up—back up correctly:
- Use Proper Backup Tools: The official Kodi Backup add-on creates complete backups including your media library, add-on settings, and skin configurations.
- Store Backups Externally: Save your backup to an external drive or cloud storage, not on the same device running Kodi. If your device fails, you’ll still have access to your backup.
- Backup Before Major Version Updates: Version jumps (e.g., Kodi 19 to Kodi 20) often involve database changes that can’t be reversed. Always backup before such major updates.
- Test Your Backup: Before updating, verify your backup by restoring it on another device or in a separate Kodi profile to ensure it contains everything you need.
2. Choose a Reliable Network
Network stability affects update success:
- Use Wired Connections When Possible: Ethernet connections provide more stable download speeds than Wi-Fi, reducing the chance of corrupted downloads.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Public networks may block certain ports or have bandwidth limitations that interfere with the update process.
- Consider Using a VPN: As mentioned earlier, a VPN can prevent ISP throttling during large downloads like Kodi updates.
3. Stay Informed About Updates
Knowledge is power:
- Check the Kodi Forum Before Updating: Visit forums.kodi.tv to see if other users are experiencing issues with the new version. Sometimes it’s better to wait a few days for minor fixes.
- Read Release Notes: Kodi publishes detailed notes with each release, highlighting new features and known issues. Understanding these can help you anticipate potential problems.
- Follow Official Kodi Social Media: Kodi’s Twitter and Facebook accounts often announce important update information and quick fixes for common issues.
4. Compatibility Check
Verify system requirements:
- Hardware Requirements: Newer Kodi versions might require more powerful hardware. Check if your device meets the minimum specifications.
- Operating System Compatibility: Ensure your OS version is supported. For example, very old Android devices might not support the latest Kodi versions.
- Add-on Compatibility: Major Kodi version updates often break add-on compatibility. Research whether your essential add-ons work with the new version before updating.
5. Platform-Specific Considerations
Each platform has unique requirements:
- Windows: Close any running instances of Kodi before updating. Check Task Manager to ensure Kodi is completely shut down.
- macOS: Applications downloaded from the internet are quarantined. Right-click the Kodi app and select “Open” to bypass this security feature.
- Android/Fire TV: Ensure you have at least 3GB of free storage before updating. Clean app caches if necessary to free up space.
- Raspberry Pi: Back up your entire SD card before updating, not just Kodi data. This provides a complete system restore point if needed.
By keeping these considerations in mind, you can ensure that your Kodi update process is smooth, secure, and free from potential hiccups.
Common Kodi Update Issues and Solutions
Even with careful planning, issues can arise. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems:
Database Corruption
Symptoms: Kodi crashes immediately after launch, or library items disappear after updating.
Solution:
- Navigate to your userdata folder (location varies by platform as listed in the backup section).
- Locate and rename the Database folder to Database.old.
- Launch Kodi, which will create a new Database folder.
- Import your media sources again.
- If everything works correctly, you can delete the Database.old folder.
Black Screen After Update
Symptoms: Kodi launches but shows only a black screen with no interface.
Solution:
- Force close Kodi.
- Navigate to your userdata folder.
- Delete guisettings.xml.
- Restart Kodi, which will create a default interface.
- Reconfigure your settings and skin preferences.
Add-ons Not Working After Update
Symptoms: Previously installed add-ons show as “Broken” or don’t function properly.
Solution:
- Go to Add-ons → My Add-ons.
- Select the problematic add-on.
- Click “Update” to get the version compatible with your new Kodi.
- If no update is available, check the add-on’s repository for a compatibility update.
- As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall the add-on.
Unable to Install Update
Symptoms: Installation fails with error messages about permissions or disk space.
Solution for Windows:
- Run the installer as an administrator.
- Temporarily disable antivirus software.
- Ensure you have at least 2GB of free disk space.
Solution for Android/Fire TV:
- Clear Kodi’s cache and data in Application Settings.
- Uninstall and reinstall Kodi (your userdata can be restored from the backup).
- Check for sufficient storage space (at least 3GB free).
Downgrading Kodi: When and How
Sometimes the latest isn’t the greatest. If you encounter persistent issues after updating, you might need to downgrade:
When to Consider Downgrading
- Essential add-ons aren’t compatible with the new version.
- Consistent crashes or performance issues after troubleshooting.
- Hardware limitations make the new version run poorly.
- Critical features you rely on have been removed or changed.
How to Downgrade on Windows
- Uninstall the current Kodi version through Windows Settings → Apps.
- Download the older version from the Kodi archive at http://mirrors.kodi.tv/releases/.
- Install the older version.
- Restore your userdata folder from backup.
How to Downgrade on Android/Fire TV
- Uninstall the current Kodi version.
- Find an APK of the older version from http://mirrors.kodi.tv/releases/android/.
- Install the APK.
- Restore your userdata folder from backup.
Warning: Downgrading after a major version update (e.g., from Kodi 20 to Kodi 19) may cause database incompatibility issues. Your library and add-on data might not work properly with the older version.
Legal and Security Considerations
While Kodi itself is perfectly legal, certain aspects of its ecosystem require attention:
Understanding Add-on Legality
- Official Repository Add-ons: These are vetted by the Kodi team and are legal to use.
- Third-Party Add-ons: Many unofficial add-ons access copyrighted content illegally. Using these may violate copyright laws in your country.
Important: Using Kodi with piracy-focused add-ons may violate copyright laws. Always comply with local regulations and use only legitimate content sources.
Maintaining Security
- Stick to Trusted Sources: Only install add-ons from the official Kodi repository or well-known, reputable third-party repositories.
- Regular Updates: Keep both Kodi and your add-ons updated to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Use Protection: Consider using a VPN to encrypt your traffic, especially when using Kodi on public networks.
FAQs
How Often Does Kodi Release Updates?
Kodi typically follows this updated pattern:
Major Versions (e.g., Kodi 19 → Kodi 20): Released approximately once per year
Point Releases (e.g., Kodi 19.4 → Kodi 19.5): Released every 2-3 months for bug fixes
Nightly Builds: Available daily for testing purposes (not recommended for everyday use).
The Kodi team focuses on stability rather than rushing releases, so update frequency varies based on development needs and community feedback
Can I Skip an Update and Update Directly to A Newer Version Later?
Yes, you can skip intermediate updates and directly update to a newer version. However, it’s always a good practice to read the update notes to ensure you’re not missing out on any critical patches or features.
Will Updating Kodi Erase My Add-Ons and Settings?
While Kodi updates aim to retain user settings and add-ons, there’s always a slight risk of data loss. It’s advisable to back up your Kodi configuration before any update to safeguard against potential data loss.
How to Revert to an Older Kodi Version?
If you need to downgrade Kodi:
1. Uninstall the current version.
2. Download the desired older version from Kodi’s archive.
3. Install the older version.
4. Restore your userdata folder from backup.
Note that database structures may change between major versions, potentially causing incompatibilities when downgrading. Always back up your data before attempting to revert to an older version.
Why Do Add-Ons Stop Working After Updates?
Add-ons may stop working after Kodi updates for several reasons:
API Changes: Major Kodi versions often modify the underlying API that add-ons use to interact with Kodi.
Python Version Changes: Kodi 19 upgraded from Python 2 to Python 3, breaking compatibility with many older add-ons.
Security Enhancements: Updates may patch security holes that certain add-ons were exploiting for functionality.
For unofficial add-ons, wait for the developer to release a compatible version. For abandoned add-ons, you may need to find alternatives that are actively maintained.
Conclusion
Updating Kodi is an essential step for every user aiming to maximize their streaming experience. With each update, Kodi brings forth enhanced features, improved stability, and critical security patches. However, as with any software update, it’s crucial to approach the process with caution and awareness. By leveraging tools like VPNs and by being mindful of the key considerations mentioned above, you can ensure that each “How to Update Kodi” journey is smooth, secure, and beneficial. In the ever-evolving world of digital streaming, staying updated ensures you’re always ahead of the curve.
With Kodi being a central hub for many entertainment enthusiasts, it’s paramount to keep it at its best. So, the next time you think of updating, remember the insights from this guide and make the most of your Kodi experience.