How to Update Kodi on Firestick: Step by Step Guide
Kodi has become one of the most popular media players worldwide offering users a platform to stream content such as TV shows, movies and music whether youre a seasoned Kodi user or a beginner, keeping your Kodi installation up to date is essential for accessing new features enhanced security and better overall performance one of the most common devices for running Kodi is Amazons Firestick thanks to its affordability and ease of use. If youre looking for a complete guide on how to update Kodi on your Firestick to the latest version youre in the right place!
In this comprehensive humanized guide well walk you through the process of updating Kodi on your Firestick provide troubleshooting tips and answer frequently asked questions to ensure you can enjoy Kodis latest features without a hitch.
Table of Contents
- What is Kodi?
- Why Should You Update Kodi on Firestick?
- Prerequisites Before Updating Kodi
- How to Check Your Current Kodi Version
- Methods to Update Kodi on Firestick
- Method 1: Using the Downloader App
- Method 2: Using ES File Explorer
- How to Update Kodi Without Losing Data
- Troubleshooting Common Kodi Update Issues
- FAQs About Updating Kodi on Firestick
- Conclusion
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1. What is Kodi?
Kodi is a free open source media player that allows users to stream a wide variety of content from the internet or local storage initially developed for Xbox under the name XBMC Kodi has evolved into a cross platform application that can be installed on devices like Firestick smartphones, tablets and even personal computers its modular design allows for the installation of addons that provide users with an almost limitless library of content.
From streaming your favorite TV shows and movies to accessing live TV or even listening to music Kodi is a powerhouse for all things media and with its customizable interface it provides a userfriendly experience tailored to your preferences.
2. Why Should You Update Kodi on Firestick?
Keeping your Kodi version updated on your Firestick is crucial for several reasons:
- New Features: Each Kodi update often comes with enhanced functionality improved user interface (UI) elements, and better compatibility with addons.
- Bug Fixes: Updates address bugs that may cause issues like crashes or malfunctioning addons.
- Security Improvements: Newer versions of Kodi tend to patch security vulnerabilities that could expose your device to threats.
- Addon Compatibility: Some addons may not work on older Kodi versions so updating ensures your favorite addons continue functioning correctly.
In short updating Kodi guarantees that your Firestick is running smoothly and securely with access to the latest content and addons.
3. Prerequisites Before Updating Kodi
Before diving into the update process, there are a few things you should prepare:
- Ensure Sufficient Storage: Make sure your Firestick has enough storage space to download and install the latest version of Kodi firesticks storage is limited so uninstall unnecessary apps if needed.
- Stable Internet Connection: Since youll be downloading the Kodi update a reliable internet connection is essential for a smooth installation process.
- Enable Apps from Unknown Sources: Kodi isnt available on the Amazon Appstore so youll need to allow the installation of third party apps. Heres how:
- Go to Settings on your Firestick.
- Select My Fire TV.
- Click Developer Options.
- Toggle on Apps from Unknown Sources.
4. How to Check Your Current Kodi Version
Before updating Kodi its a good idea to check which version youre currently running on your Firestick this will help you determine whether an update is needed.
- Open Kodi on your Firestick.
- On the home screen click on the Settings icon (the gear symbol in the top left corner).
- Select System Information.
- Under the System tab youll see your current Kodi version listed.
Once you know your version you can compare it to the latest release on the official Kodi website to determine if an update is necessary.
5. Methods to Update Kodi on Firestick
There are a couple of ways to update Kodi on your Firestick below well cover two primary methods: using the Downloader app and using ES File Explorer.
Method 1: Using the Downloader App
Step 1: Install the Downloader App
- If you havent already installed the Downloader app go to the Firestick home screen click on the search bar and type Downloader.
- Select Downloader from the search results and click on Download to install it.
2: Open Downloader
- Launch the Downloader app from your apps library.
- On the main screen youll see a URL field where you can enter a web address.
3: Download the Latest Kodi APK
- In the URL field type the official Kodi download link:
https://kodi.tv/download
- This will take you to the Kodi website where you can choose your platform select Android (since Firestick runs on a version of Android).
- On the next screen select the ARMV7A (32-bit) version of Kodi this is the version compatible with Firestick.
- Click Download to start the download.
4: Install Kodi
- Once the APK is downloaded a prompt will appear asking if you want to install the app.
- Click Install and wait for the installation to complete.
5: Launch Kodi
- After installation you can choose to launch Kodi immediately or go back to your home screen your Kodi will now be updated to the latest version.
Method 2: Using ES File Explorer
Step 1: Install ES File Explorer
- Search for ES File Explorer in the Firestick search bar and install it this app serves as both a file manager and a way to sideload APK files.
2: Open ES File Explorer
- Once installed launch ES File Explorer.
3: Download Kodi APK
- In the ES File Explorer app, go to the Downloader feature.
- Click on + New at the bottom of the screen.
- In the Path field type
https://kodi.tv/download
and in the Name field type Kodi. - Click Download Now to download the Kodi APK.
4: Install Kodi
- Once the APK finishes downloading click Open File then click Install.
- Follow the on screen instructions to complete the installation.
6. How to Update Kodi Without Losing Data
One of the biggest concerns for Kodi users is updating the software without losing their addons settings or custom builds. Thankfully if you follow the steps above Kodi will be updated without affecting your data.
Here are a few tips to ensure you dont lose data during the update:
- Back Up Kodi Data: You can use Kodi backup addons like Backup or Ares Wizard to save all your settings addons and other data.
- Install Over Existing Kodi: The methods provided above install the new version over your existing one ensuring that your custom settings and addons remain intact.
- Check Addon Compatibility: While your data should remain intact check whether your current addons are compatible with the latest Kodi version.
7. Troubleshooting Common Kodi Update Issues
If you encounter any problems during or after updating Kodi here are some common issues and how to solve them:
Problem 1: Kodi Keeps Crashing
- Solution: This is often caused by incompatible addons try disabling or uninstalling addons one by one to identify the culprit alternatively you can reset Kodi to its default settings and reinstall your addons.
2: Firestick Running Out of Storage
- Solution: Uninstall apps you no longer use to free up storage space you can also use a USB drive with an OTG cable to expand your Firesticks storage.
3: Update Won’t Install
- Solution: If the installation fails restart your Firestick and ensure that youre downloading the correct version of Kodi if the problem persists you may need to uninstall Kodi and reinstall it from scratch.
FAQs About Updating Kodi on Firestick
1. Is it safe to update Kodi on Firestick? Yes updating Kodi is safe and recommended for improved performance, security and new features.
2. Will I lose my addons if I update Kodi? No updating Kodi via the methods outlined above should not delete your addons or settings however its always a good idea to back up your data beforehand.
3. How often should I update Kodi? You should update Kodi whenever a new stable release is available which is typically every few months staying up to date ensures you have the latest features and security enhancements.
4. Whats the latest version of Kodi? As of October 2024 the latest version of Kodi is Kodi 21 Omega but always check the official Kodi website for the latest version.
Conclusion
Updating Kodi on your Firestick to the latest version is crucial for maintaining optimal performance security and access to the newest features whether you choose to use the Downloader app or ES File Explorer the process is simple and straightforward with this guide you should have no problem keeping your Kodi installation up to date without losing any of your data or settings.
Remember regularly updating Kodi ensures that your media streaming experience remains smooth and enjoyable so take a few minutes to follow these steps and enjoy all the latest that Kodi has to offer!