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Kodi updates add new features, improve performance, and fix security or playback problems. Because Kodi is usually sideloaded rather than installed from the Amazon Appstore, the update process differs from updating most Fire TV apps. This guide explains how to update Kodi on FireTV while keeping your add-ons, settings, and media libraries safe.
Before You Update Kodi on FireTV
Before updating, check which Kodi version is currently installed. Open Kodi and select Settings from the home screen. Choose System Information, then look for the version number.
You should also prepare your Fire TV:
- Make sure the device has a stable internet connection.
- Keep at least 500 MB of free storage available.
- Connect the Fire TV to power during the update.
- Close Kodi and other running apps.
- Back up Kodi if you have extensive custom settings or add-ons.
An update normally installs over the existing version and preserves your Kodi data. However, problems can occur if the download is interrupted, the wrong APK architecture is selected, or an older installation is incompatible with the new release.
For the safest download, use the official Kodi website at kodi.tv. Avoid modified APKs, unofficial download pages, and “free streaming” packages. These may include malware, unwanted add-ons, or altered software.
How to Update Kodi on FireTV with Downloader
The easiest method is to download the current Android version of Kodi directly to your Fire TV.
1. Install or open Downloader
From the Fire TV home screen, use Find or the search icon and look for Downloader. Select the official Downloader app, install it, and open it.
If Fire TV asks for permission to install apps from Downloader, select Settings, enable Downloader, and return to the app.
On some Fire OS versions, this setting is located under:
Settings > My Fire TV > Developer Options > Install unknown apps > Downloader
If you do not see Developer Options, open Settings > My Fire TV > About, highlight your Fire TV device, and press the select button seven times. Return to the previous menu and Developer Options should appear.
2. Download Kodi
In Downloader, enter the official Kodi website address:
https://kodi.tv/download/android/
Select the Android logo and choose the appropriate APK.
Most newer Fire TV devices use ARM64, while some older or lower-cost models may require ARMV7A (32-bit). If you are unsure, check your Fire TV model’s specifications or try the ARM64 version first. Installing the wrong architecture may cause an error or prevent Kodi from opening.
3. Install the update
When the APK finishes downloading, choose Install. Fire TV may warn that Kodi is an unknown app; this is expected when sideloading software outside the Amazon Appstore.
Wait for the installation to finish, then select Done. Choose Delete when Downloader asks whether to remove the APK file. Deleting it saves storage and does not remove Kodi itself.
Open Kodi and check Settings > System Information to confirm that the new version is installed.
Alternative Ways to Update Kodi on FireTV
Downloader is the simplest option, but you have alternatives.
Update from a computer or phone
You can download the official Kodi APK on a computer, copy it to a USB drive, and use a compatible file manager on Fire TV. This is useful when the Fire TV browser or Downloader is not working. Make sure the APK comes from Kodi’s official website and matches your device architecture.
Some users transfer the APK over their local network with an Android file-transfer app. This works, but it requires installing a trusted file manager and enabling the appropriate permissions.
Reinstall when an update fails
If Kodi refuses to update, do not immediately select Clear data. First, restart the Fire TV and try installing the APK again. The new APK must use the same Kodi package name and a compatible signing key to update the existing installation.
If the installation still fails, uninstalling and reinstalling Kodi may solve the problem, but uninstalling can erase your Kodi settings, databases, and add-ons. Back up your Kodi data first if possible. A backup add-on can save your configuration so you can restore it after reinstalling.
Fix Common Kodi Update Problems
“App not installed” usually means the APK is incompatible, the device lacks storage, or the existing Kodi installation conflicts with the downloaded file. Confirm the APK architecture, free storage, and download source.
If Kodi installs but crashes, restart Fire TV by going to Settings > My Fire TV > Restart. You can also open Settings > Applications > Manage Installed Applications > Kodi and select Clear cache. Do not select Clear data unless you are prepared to reset Kodi.
If add-ons disappear after updating, check Settings > Add-ons > My add-ons and restart Kodi. Add-ons made for older Kodi versions may not work with a major release. Update them through Kodi’s add-on manager when updates are available.
If video playback becomes unreliable, update the affected add-on, restart your router, and check whether the problem affects all content or only one source. Kodi itself cannot fix a broken or overloaded streaming source.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does updating Kodi delete my add-ons?
Usually, no. Installing a compatible APK over the existing version normally preserves add-ons, settings, and libraries. Still, backing up important Kodi data is recommended before a major update.
Can Kodi update automatically on Fire TV?
Kodi generally does not update automatically through the Amazon Appstore because it is commonly sideloaded. You usually need to download and install the newer APK manually, unless you use a separate trusted update tool.
Is it legal to use Kodi on Fire TV?
Kodi is legal software. However, the legality of content depends on the add-ons and sources you use. Stick to legitimate services and content you are authorized to watch. Avoid add-ons that provide unauthorized access to copyrighted streams.
Conclusion
Learning how to update Kodi on FireTV is straightforward: download the correct Android APK from Kodi’s official website, install it with Downloader, and avoid clearing Kodi data unless necessary. Keep your Fire TV updated, maintain free storage, and back up important settings before major Kodi upgrades.
