If you are wondering, “how do I upgrade Kodi?” the answer depends on the device you use. In most cases, upgrading is free and preserves your media library, settings, and add-ons. However, backing up your Kodi data first is wise, especially when moving between major versions.
Before You Upgrade Kodi
Before installing a newer Kodi release, check a few important details:
- Identify your current version: Open Kodi and go to Settings > System information.
- Check your device: The upgrade process differs on Android TV, Fire TV, Windows, macOS, Linux, Raspberry Pi, and iPhone or iPad.
- Review add-on compatibility: Some older add-ons may not work after a major Kodi upgrade.
- Keep your login details: Write down usernames, passwords, and repository information for services you use.
- Ensure enough storage: Leave room for the installer and temporary update files.
- Use the official source: Download Kodi only from the official Kodi website or your device’s trusted app store.
Minor updates usually fix bugs and security issues. Major upgrades can introduce interface changes, new features, or compatibility problems, so do not rush to update a working setup without a backup.
How Do I Upgrade Kodi on Android TV and Google TV?
Android TV and Google TV usually offer the simplest upgrade process.
- Open the Google Play Store on your television or streaming device.
- Select your profile icon and open Manage apps and games or Manage apps.
- Find Kodi under available updates.
- Select Update.
- Wait for the installation to finish, then launch Kodi.
If Kodi does not appear in the update list, search for it directly in the Play Store. Open its app page and select Update if available.
For devices without Google Play, such as some Android TV boxes, you may need to install Kodi manually. Visit the official Kodi download page using the device’s browser, choose the Android version that matches your hardware, and enable installation from unknown sources when prompted. Android devices commonly use ARM-based versions, but choosing the wrong package can cause installation errors.
Your Kodi profile normally remains in place during an update. Even so, manually installed add-ons or older repositories may stop working if the new Kodi version changes compatibility requirements.
How Do I Upgrade Kodi on Fire TV?
Amazon Fire TV devices typically require a manual installation because Kodi is not always available directly through the Amazon Appstore.
The easiest method is to use the Downloader app:
- Install Downloader from the Amazon Appstore.
- Open it and enter the official Kodi website address.
- Select Android, then choose the ARM-compatible release for your Fire TV.
- Download and install the APK.
- Open Kodi after installation and remove the downloaded APK if you need storage space.
On newer Fire TV software, you may need to allow Downloader to install unknown apps. Open Settings > My Fire TV > Developer Options > Install unknown apps, then enable Downloader.
Do not uninstall your existing Kodi installation before upgrading unless necessary. Installing the newer APK over the current version is more likely to preserve your settings and media sources. If Fire TV reports that the application cannot be installed, confirm that you downloaded the correct Android architecture and that your device has enough free storage.
How Do I Upgrade Kodi on Windows, macOS, and Linux?
On Windows, download the latest installer from the official Kodi website. Choose the correct Windows version, run the installer, and follow the prompts. Installing the new version over the existing one generally keeps your profile and settings.
On macOS, download the current disk image from Kodi’s official site. Open the downloaded file and drag Kodi into the Applications folder, replacing the older copy when asked. macOS may require permission to open an application downloaded from the internet.
Linux upgrades depend on your distribution. On Ubuntu-based systems, Kodi may be updated through the software center or terminal after the appropriate official repository has been configured. You can then use your normal package manager to install available updates. Other distributions may provide Kodi through their own repositories or community packages.
Avoid mixing unofficial builds with standard Kodi installations. Modified versions can create update problems, overwrite settings, or include unwanted software. If you use a specialized Linux media-center distribution, follow that project’s upgrade instructions instead of installing a separate desktop package.
Upgrade Kodi on Raspberry Pi, iPhone, and Other Devices
Raspberry Pi users often run Kodi through LibreELEC, OSMC, or another dedicated operating system. In these cases, update Kodi through the operating system’s settings or update utility. Before upgrading, create a backup or system image because a failed update can affect the entire media-center installation.
On iPhone and iPad, Kodi installation and upgrades are more complicated because Kodi is not normally distributed through Apple’s App Store. Users may need a compatible sideloading method, and the process can change with iOS updates. Use the official Kodi documentation and avoid downloading modified IPA files from unknown websites.
For Xbox, Kodi updates generally come through the Microsoft Store. Open the Store, check your app updates, and install the available Kodi update. On other platforms, such as certain smart TVs, updates may be handled automatically by the manufacturer or may not be supported at all.
After upgrading, open Kodi and test your main functions: play a local file, check your media library, verify subtitles, and confirm that important add-ons still operate correctly.
Back Up Kodi Before a Major Upgrade
A backup protects your library information, sources, settings, and add-ons. The easiest approach is to install Kodi’s Backup add-on from the official Kodi repository. Open the add-on, choose a backup location, and save the backup to external storage or a network location rather than only on the device.
You can also manually copy Kodi’s user-data folder, although its location differs by operating system. This method is useful for advanced users but is easier to get wrong. Do not restore a complete profile from a much newer Kodi release into an older version, as the database may not be compatible.
If an upgrade causes problems, uninstalling and reinstalling Kodi may not remove the profile folder. A clean reinstall sometimes requires deleting that folder manually, so make sure your backup is stored safely before troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will upgrading Kodi delete my settings? Usually, no. Installing a newer version over the existing installation normally preserves your profile, sources, library, and settings. A backup is still recommended before a major version change.
Why did my Kodi add-ons stop working after the upgrade? The add-on may not support the new Kodi version, its repository may be unavailable, or the add-on may need an update. Check the developer’s official information and avoid suspicious replacement repositories.
Should I uninstall Kodi before upgrading? Normally, no. Install the new version over the existing one. Uninstalling first can remove access to your current configuration, depending on the platform and uninstall options.
Conclusion
The safest answer to “how do I upgrade Kodi?” is to back up your profile, use an official download or app store, and follow the method for your device. Afterward, test your library and add-ons before deleting the backup or old installation.
