The Amazon FireStick has become one of the most popular streaming devices around the world, turning any regular TV into a smart entertainment hub. Among the many apps FireStick users rely on, Kodi stands out as a flexible and powerful media center application that lets you organize and access movies, TV shows, music, photos, and more from various sources.
Like any app, it’s important to keep Kodi updated on your FireStick to enjoy the latest features, improved performance, bug fixes, and security patches. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about updating Kodi on FireStick — why it matters, the different methods you can use, and best practices for a smooth upgrade process.
What Is Kodi?
Before diving into the update process, let’s quickly review what Kodi is and why it’s such a popular app for FireStick users.
Kodi is a free, open-source media player software originally designed for the Xbox and now available for multiple platforms including Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, and FireStick. It serves as a central hub where you can access your locally stored media or stream content through add-ons.
While Kodi itself does not offer any content, it enables users to integrate services and repositories through official and third-party add-ons, allowing them to stream movies, TV shows, music, and live TV.
Why Should You Update Kodi on FireStick?
If you’re still running an older version of Kodi on your FireStick, you might be missing out on essential updates. Here’s why keeping it up to date is a smart move:
📌 New Features
Each new version of Kodi typically introduces improved functionality, better compatibility with add-ons, and enhancements to its user interface and navigation system.
📌 Security Improvements
Older versions of Kodi might be more vulnerable to security risks. Updating ensures you have the latest patches to protect your data and device.
📌 Bug Fixes
Every Kodi update addresses known glitches or bugs that may affect app performance, streaming quality, or stability.
📌 Compatibility with New Add-ons
Some new Kodi add-ons or builds require the latest version of the app to work properly. Keeping Kodi updated ensures you can access and install the latest add-ons.
Check Your Kodi Version on FireStick
Before updating, it’s helpful to know which version of Kodi you’re currently running. Here’s how you can check:
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Launch Kodi on your FireStick.
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Go to the Settings (gear icon).
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Select System Information.
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On the Summary tab, look at the Build Version listed at the bottom right.
This will show you the exact version number and build of Kodi currently installed on your device.
Best Methods to Update Kodi on FireStick
Since Kodi isn’t available on the Amazon Appstore, updates aren’t automatic. You’ll need to manually install the latest version by sideloading it onto your FireStick. Let’s walk through the most reliable methods to do this.
Method 1: Update Kodi via the Downloader App
This is the easiest and most popular method for updating Kodi on FireStick.
📥 Steps:
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Enable Apps from Unknown Sources
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Go to your FireStick Settings.
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Select My Fire TV.
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Click Developer Options.
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Turn on Apps from Unknown Sources for Downloader.
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Install the Downloader App
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From the FireStick home screen, go to Find and then Search.
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Type Downloader.
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Install the app from the search results.
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Download the Latest Kodi APK
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Open Downloader.
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In the URL field, enter the official Kodi download link for Android/ARMV7A (32-bit), which is the compatible version for FireStick.
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Click Go to begin downloading the APK file.
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Install the Kodi APK
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Once downloaded, select Install.
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Wait for installation to complete.
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Choose Done and delete the APK to save storage space.
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This method essentially installs the latest version over your existing Kodi app, preserving your settings and add-ons in most cases.
Method 2: Update Kodi Using a File Manager (Alternative)
If you prefer, you can also use a file manager app like ES File Explorer or File Manager+ to sideload the new Kodi APK.
📥 Steps:
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Install your preferred file manager from the Amazon Appstore.
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Download the latest Kodi APK to your cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.).
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Use the file manager to access your cloud storage.
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Download and install the Kodi APK on your FireStick.
This method works well if you already have the APK stored online or locally.
Should You Uninstall Kodi Before Updating?
Generally, you don’t need to uninstall the old version of Kodi before updating. The new version typically installs over the existing app, keeping your settings, add-ons, and libraries intact.
However, if you’re facing persistent issues like app crashes or corrupted settings, a fresh installation might be better. Just remember to back up your Kodi data if you want to restore it after reinstalling.
How to Back Up Kodi Data Before Updating
If you’re concerned about losing your add-ons, builds, or settings during the update, it’s a good idea to back up your Kodi data.
📥 Steps:
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Install a Kodi backup add-on (like Backup or KodiBackup) from the Kodi repository.
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Use the add-on to create a backup of your current setup.
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Save the backup to external storage or a cloud service.
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After updating, reinstall the backup add-on and restore your settings.
This ensures you can safely update Kodi without starting from scratch.
What’s New in the Latest Kodi Version (2025 Update)
As of 2025, the latest stable version of Kodi offers several improvements:
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Enhanced user interface with a cleaner layout.
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Improved support for modern streaming add-ons and IPTV services.
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Faster app performance with better memory management.
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Updated EPG (Electronic Program Guide) for live TV add-ons.
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Better support for 4K video playback and Dolby Atmos audio.
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Improved compatibility with Android 12-based devices and Fire OS updates.
These updates make it worthwhile for FireStick users to upgrade from older Kodi versions.
Troubleshooting Kodi Update Issues on FireStick
If you experience problems after updating Kodi, try these troubleshooting steps:
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App Not Opening: Clear Kodi’s cache and data from FireStick settings.
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Add-ons Not Working: Update or reinstall the affected add-ons.
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Buffering Problems: Check your internet connection or use a performance optimization add-on.
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Compatibility Errors: Ensure you’ve downloaded the correct APK version for FireStick (Android/ARMV7A 32-bit).
Best Practices for a Smooth Kodi Experience on FireStick
To get the best out of Kodi on your FireStick, follow these tips:
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Use a VPN: Helps maintain privacy, protects your data, and can bypass geo-restrictions.
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Clear Cache Regularly: Prevents the app from slowing down.
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Avoid Overloading with Add-ons: Too many add-ons can affect performance.
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Keep Add-ons and Builds Updated: New versions often fix bugs and improve compatibility.
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Use an External Player: For better playback, configure Kodi to use players like MX Player or VLC.
Legal Disclaimer
Kodi itself is a legal media player. However, its legal standing depends on how you use it. Official Kodi add-ons provide access to legal content, while some third-party add-ons might offer unauthorized streams. Always ensure you’re accessing content legally and avoid add-ons that provide pirated material.
Final Thoughts
Updating Kodi on FireStick is a straightforward process, and doing it regularly ensures you enjoy the latest features, bug fixes, and improved performance. Whether you choose the Downloader method or use a file manager app, keeping Kodi up to date will help you avoid glitches and compatibility issues with new add-ons.
Remember to back up your Kodi data before major updates and stick to legal, official add-ons for safe and reliable streaming.
With this guide, you should now feel confident about updating Kodi on your FireStick and enjoying a smoother, faster, and more secure media center experience.