Kodi Smart TV App: How to Install Kodi on a Smart TV

Yes, you can run Kodi on some smart TVs, but the installation method depends on the TV’s operating system and model. The simplest option is Google Play on compatible Android TV or Google TV sets. Kodi also has a webOS build for supported LG TVs. If your TV is unsupported, connect a Kodi-compatible streaming device or computer by HDMI. Kodi is a media player; it does not supply movies or channels.

Check your TV’s operating system

Find the model and operating system under Settings > About or System; menu names vary. “Smart TV” alone does not confirm Kodi support, so check the manufacturer’s specifications.

Kodi’s Android download page currently lists stable version 21.3 “Omega.” Its webOS page lists Kodi 21; the official guide supports webOS 4 or later, except K5LP-based TVs. Confirm your exact model before starting.

Install Kodi from Google Play on Android TV or Google TV

1. On Google TV, open Apps or Search. On Android TV, open the Google Play Store. Search for “Kodi.” Google’s Google TV instructions and Android TV instructions show the current routes.

2. Choose the listing published by Kodi Foundation and select Install. Google Play chooses a compatible package and handles updates. If Kodi is missing, the store may not support your TV model or region.

3. Open Kodi from the apps row. Allow media access if you want it to browse files stored on the TV or connected storage. On Android TV 11 or later, local files may require a separate permission: go to Settings > Apps > Kodi > Permissions and allow Files and media. Labels vary by device.

Kodi can organize video, music, and pictures from local or network storage. Its official app includes no media. Add-ons can extend Kodi, but use sources you trust and only access content you are authorized to watch.

After installation: add your media

An empty Movies or TV Shows library does not mean installation failed: Kodi does not ship with media or populate the library automatically. Add a local folder or a network share through Kodi’s media-source controls. For network folders, check that sharing is enabled and the TV can reach the computer. If local files do not appear, revisit Kodi’s file permissions.

Sideload Kodi on a compatible Android TV

Use this method only if your TV runs Android and its manufacturer permits APK installs. Menu names and available options vary.

1. Open the official Kodi Android download page. Choose the stable release, not a prerelease. Select an APK that matches the TV’s processor and Android support. Kodi lists ARMV7A (32-bit) and ARMV8A (64-bit); check the model specifications instead of guessing.

2. Download the APK from Kodi’s site, copy it to a USB drive, and connect the drive to the TV.

3. On the TV, find the install-from-unknown-apps setting, often under Settings > Apps or Security. If available, allow installation only for the file manager that will open the APK. Turn the permission off afterward. If the TV blocks sideloading, do not bypass its safeguards; use the app store or an external Kodi device.

4. In the file manager, open the Kodi APK on the USB drive and confirm Install. Launch Kodi from the apps list when setup finishes. If installation fails, check Android version, processor architecture, and available storage before trying again.

What about LG webOS, Samsung Tizen, and other TVs?

LG webOS: Kodi has a webOS build, but it is not distributed through the LG Content Store. Supported TVs require Developer Mode and a Kodi webOS installation package. Check your model and follow the official Kodi webOS installation guide; download only from the Kodi webOS download page.

Samsung Tizen and other unsupported systems: Kodi’s official downloads do not list a Tizen build, and an Android APK will not work on Tizen. Use an external streaming box or small computer that supports Kodi, connected to an HDMI input. The TV then acts as the display.

Use official downloads and media sources

For setup details, use Kodi’s official Android installation guide. Kodi’s official version contains no content, and Team Kodi does not endorse watching copyrighted material without permission. Keep the app updated through Google Play or the official Kodi page for your device.