Kodi stands as one of the most valuable tools to have on our computers, enabling us to stream online content or play IPTV playlists. However, its usefulness extends beyond computers and mobile phones, as Kodi can also be installed on Smart TVs, opening up a world of possibilities and advantages on the big screen.
Before delving into the process of installing Kodi on a Smart TV, it’s essential to understand what Kodi is and why it has garnered immense popularity. This free software serves a diverse range of purposes, allowing users to access and enjoy an extensive array of media content. Now, let’s proceed with the instructions on how to install Kodi on your Smart TV.
What is Kodi
Kodi is a versatile multimedia center software that allows users to play both local and streaming multimedia content on their devices. It has gained popularity since its release in 2014 and is known for being free and open-source. Kodi is compatible with various operating systems such as Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android, making it accessible to a wide range of users. Additionally, Kodi can be easily installed on Smart TVs, further expanding its usability.
When installing Kodi, we can enhance its functionality by adding extensions called add-ons. These add-ons serve different purposes, offering additional features and capabilities to the program. They cover a wide range of options, from streaming services like Amazon Prime Video to weather forecast integrations within the Kodi interface.
It’s important to note that Kodi itself is not inherently illegal software. Its legality depends on how it is used. While some users may utilize Kodi for accessing pirated or illegal content, there are many legitimate and legal uses for Kodi as a multimedia center. For instance, using Kodi to access platforms like HBO on Amazon devices, such as Fire TV or Fire Stick, where direct access may not be available.
In summary, Kodi is a powerful multimedia center software that can be installed on various devices, including Smart TVs. With its extensive add-on support, users can customize their Kodi experience and enjoy a wide range of multimedia content without resorting to pirated or illegal sources.
Advantages
Kodi is a versatile platform that offers a wide range of content options, including music, image galleries, podcasts, and especially videos, with series and movies being its main attractions. It also provides the capability to create and manage a local media library, allowing users to import files and expand their entertainment choices.
One of Kodi’s standout features is its customization options, empowering users to organize their libraries, modify the application’s appearance, and customize the player’s settings. Additionally, the platform supports extensions that offer additional functionalities. These plugins provide access to a diverse array of content, spanning TV channels, online broadcasts, and videos from platforms like YouTube.
Regular updates are a key aspect of Kodi, thanks to its active developer community that continually generates new add-ons. This ensures that Kodi remains up-to-date with the latest advancements, bolstering its security, and enhancing its functionality over time.
Drawbacks
Installing Kodi on a Smart TV can be a bit complex, but we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to help you through the process. However, it’s important to note that certain aspects and settings may vary depending on your specific Smart TV model and platform restrictions, which could introduce some complications.
Firstly, it’s worth mentioning that Kodi is natively available for Android TV. This means that if you have a Smart TV running on other operating systems like Samsung‘s Tizen or LG‘s WebOS, you’ll need to rely on third-party products such as dongles to enjoy Kodi.
Additionally, there may be certain circumstances that can affect the performance of Kodi on your Smart TV. Some file formats and codecs might hinder the playback of specific content or, in some cases, may not be supported at all. This is something to keep in mind when using Kodi on your device.
How to install Kodi
The installation steps for Kodi on your Smart TV will vary depending on the operating system of your television. It’s important to determine the compatibility of Kodi with your specific operating system before proceeding. If Kodi is not compatible with your Smart TV’s operating system, there are various gadgets or tools available that can provide a compatible operating system for a reasonable price, typically under 30 or 40 euros. This can be a cost-effective solution that allows you to install Kodi and enjoy its benefits, such as playing multimedia content from various platforms, without having to purchase a new television.
On Android TV
If you have a Smart TV with Android TV, regardless of the brand, installing Kodi is a straightforward process. Many TVs come with this operating system by default, including brands like Xiaomi.
To install Kodi on your Smart TV, start by accessing the Google Play Store application store. Using the remote control, navigate to the search engine within the store. Type “Kodi” and you will see the options that appear. Make sure to select the version developed by Kodi Foundation and proceed by tapping on it. Click on “install” and patiently wait for a few minutes while the installation completes. Once finished, you will find the Kodi application among the other installed apps on your television.
Once Kodi is installed on your Android TV, accessing it is as simple as navigating to the applications section of your TV’s interface and locating the Kodi symbol or icon. Launch the application, and you will gain access to the management of your files and content. This includes files stored on the internal hard drive of your TV or any external drives connected to it.
To enjoy a wide range of content, it is recommended to use an external hard drive connected via USB or a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device. By doing so, you can easily access and manage your files. While your computer may contain a significant amount of content, it may not be readily available on your Smart TV. Therefore, connecting an external storage device allows you to access and play your desired music, series, movies, or photos on Kodi with ease. Additionally, you can create playlists or install add-ons to expand your options and enhance your Kodi experience.
If I don’t have Android TV
If your Smart TV does not have the Android TV operating system, installing Kodi directly on the TV may not be possible. However, you can still make your TV “smart” and compatible with Kodi by using devices such as Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast, or Xiaomi Mi TV.
Regardless of the device you choose, the installation steps remain similar. Firstly, go to the respective app store associated with your device (e.g., Amazon Appstore, Google Play Store) and search for “Kodi.” Follow the steps mentioned earlier, including selecting the official Kodi Foundation-developed app, installing it, and waiting for the installation process to complete.
Once installed, launch the Kodi app on your device and customize it according to your preferences. You can access your local files, manage content, create playlists, and install add-ons to enhance your Kodi experience. Although the process may vary slightly depending on the specific device, the general steps for installing and using Kodi remain consistent.
Other adjustments and changes
Once Kodi is installed on your device, you have the freedom to customize and configure various settings within the application to enhance your experience and ensure it meets your preferences. In addition to connecting external drives, as previously mentioned, you can explore a wide range of add-ons and accessories to expand Kodi’s functionalities.
To install add-ons, navigate to the app options by selecting the gear icon, and locate the “add-ons” section. Here, you can browse through the available add-ons, choose the ones that interest you, and click on “install.” Follow the on-screen instructions provided by Kodi to complete the installation process, and you’ll have the desired add-ons ready to use.
Furthermore, you can customize the appearance of Kodi to your liking. Access the settings panel by tapping on the gear icon, and various options will be displayed. Select “interface,” and from there, choose the “skin” option. You’ll find a selection of pre-installed skins to choose from, or you can explore and install additional skins directly within the program, without the need for prior internet downloads. These alternative skins often provide a more comfortable and user-friendly interface compared to the default one.
One of the most appealing aspects of Kodi is its extensive range of add-ons, which operate similarly to Alexa skills, allowing you to significantly expand your entertainment options. With add-ons, you can access national and international film channels (such as Cristal Azul, Alfa, and Balandra), documentaries (Doqmental), anime series (Zero Animé or Lili Animé), and even sports channels in both Spanish and English. The variety of available add-ons is vast, ensuring that you’ll find channels and content suitable for your personal tastes.