How to Install Kodi on a Firestick

This step-by-step guide shows you how to install Kodi on an Amazon Fire TV Stick (“Firestick”). Even if you’re a novice, follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll have Kodi installed in no time!

1. Important Note

• Safety and Legality: Installing Kodi is perfectly legal. However, using unofficial add-ons to stream pirated content is not. Always ensure the content you access is copyright-compliant.
• Fire OS Versions: The exact menu labels or the layout on your Firestick may vary slightly based on the Fire TV OS version.

2. Enable Apps from Unknown Sources

1. Go to the Firestick Home Screen.
   Scroll to the top navigation bar and select the gear icon for “Settings.”
2. Select “My Fire TV” (or “Device”).
   This opens a submenu of system settings.
3. Enable Developer Options (if needed).
   Some newer Firesticks hide Developer Options by default. If you don’t see it, go to “About” > highlight “Fire TV Stick” > press the select button on your remote 7 times until you see a notification that Developer Options are enabled.
4. Turn on “Apps from Unknown Sources.”
   It may also appear as “Install unknown apps.” In that case, you can toggle it on specifically for “Downloader” after installing the Downloader app.

3. Install the Downloader App

You need a simple utility called “Downloader” (free on the Amazon Appstore) to sideload apps like Kodi.

1. From the Home Screen, select “Find” (or the magnifying glass icon).
2. Type “Downloader.” You should see the orange Downloader app icon (by AFTVnews) in the results.
3. Select “Downloader” and choose “Download” or “Get.” Wait for it to install.

4. Download and Install Kodi

1. Open the Downloader App.
   The first time, it may request permission for storage. Select “Allow.”
2. Use the URL bar on the Home tab.
   You’ll see a field labeled “Enter a URL.”
3. Type https://kodi.tv/download and press “Go.”
   You’ll either see a direct link to the Android APK, or you can navigate to it through the Kodi site’s interface.
4. Select the Android icon on Kodi’s download page.
   Since Fire OS is based on Android, this is the correct version.
5. Choose the “ARMV7A (32BIT)” build.
   This typically works best on Firestick devices. Download starts automatically.
6. After the download completes, select “Install.”
   Downloader will prompt you to begin the installation.
7. Once installed, click “Done” or “Open.” If you choose “Done,” you can delete the APK to save space.

5. Launch Kodi

1. Return to the Home Screen and select “Your Apps & Channels.”
2. Scroll to find Kodi (if it’s not at the top, click “See All”).
3. Launch Kodi. Give any permissions requested (e.g., access to storage), and you’re all set!

6. FAQ & Troubleshooting

1. Developer Options Missing?

On newer Firesticks, go to Settings > My Fire TV > About. Highlight “Fire TV Stick,” then press the select button 7 times quickly. Return to the previous menu, and “Developer Options” should appear.

2. Downloader Blocked or “Not Allowed”?

Ensure you’ve allowed “Downloader” to install unknown apps. Go to Settings > My Fire TV > Developer Options (or “Install Unknown Apps”) and toggle Downloader to ON.

3. Downloader Can’t Connect or Install?

Check your internet connection and confirm the URL is correct. You can also clear Downloader’s cache by going to Settings > Applications > Manage Installed Applications > Downloader > Clear Cache.

4. Updating Kodi

To update, repeat the process by downloading the latest Kodi APK from https://kodi.tv/download and install it over your existing version.

5. Alternative Methods?

Tools like “Apps2Fire” (Android) can sideload apps to the Firestick, but Downloader is usually the simplest method for most users.

Conclusion

That’s all it takes! By enabling “Apps from Unknown Sources” and using the free “Downloader” app, you can sideload Kodi quickly and securely. Always download Kodi from its official source to avoid issues. If you run into problems, revisit the troubleshooting tips above or consult the official Kodi forums. Enjoy your new streaming setup!