If you are using an older Kodi version (the latest as of date is 21.1 Omega) on your Fire TV / Stick, this guide is for you. I will show you how to update Kodi on FireStick or Fire TV. The instructions apply to any device running on Fire OS, including FireStick 3rd Gen, 4K & 4K Max, FireStick Lite, Fire TV Cube, New FireStick 4K, New FireStick 4K Max and TVs with preloaded Fire OS.
Why Update Kodi?
Kodi developers occasionally roll out new updates. Although downloading Kodi updates on Windows and Android devices is pretty easy, it isn’t as straightforward for Fire TV devices.
Unfortunately, the Kodi app is not available on the Amazon App Store. Therefore, new updates don’t install automatically on FireOS devices. So, you must update Kodi manually.
Here are some reasons why you must update Kodi on FireStick regularly.
- Fixing Bugs: If Kodi faces various software bugs or glitches, a new update will most likely fix the system issue that causes them.
- Minimal Lags: Kodi users complain about lags and buffering issues while streaming or using the app. Installing the Kodi update is the best way to enjoy lag-free streaming.
- New Features: New updates come with new and improved features. It may include customizations, streaming options, and more.
- Security Updates: Most importantly, updating Kodi may also fix system vulnerabilities and risks.
Note: If you are facing buffering problems on your Kodi, the new update may fix them. However, you can also check out our guide on Kodi buffering issues.
Attention, FireStick Users!
Governments and ISPs constantly monitor your online activity, and accessing copyrighted content on your Fire TV Stick could lead to serious trouble. Currently, your IP is visible to everyone. I strongly recommend getting the best FireStick VPN to mask your IP address and securely stream your favorites.
I personally use ExpressVPN, the fastest and most secure VPN available. Not only is it easy to install on any device, it comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. Plus, if you're not 100% satisfied, you can always get a refund. ExpressVPN is currently also offering a whopping 3 extra months free on their annual plan!
Read: How to Install and Use Best VPN for FireStick
How to Update to the latest Kodi 21.1 Omega on FireStick
Below are the complete step-by-step instructions on how to update Kodi on FireStick.
Step 1: Prepare FireStick for Kodi Update
Here are the quick steps to set up FireStick to update Kodi (you may also follow our step-by-step instructions to prepare FireStick):
1. Go to the FireStick home screen and navigate to Magnifying Glass > Search. Please search for the Downloader app and follow the on-screen instructions to install it on your device.
2. Go to Fire Stick Settings > My Fire TV > Developer Options. There, you should see Install Unknown Apps. Please open it and select Downloader to turn it ON.
Now, select Fire TV Stick and click it 7 times to enable Developer Options. If you’re still not sure how to do it, here’s a step-by-step guide to enable developer options.
Updating Kodi on Fire TV Stick
The latest update available on the date is Kodi 21.1 Omega.
1. Press and hold the Home key on your remote and click Apps on this popup.
2. Open the Downloader app on the Your Apps & Channels window.
3. Click the input box.
4. A popup keypad box will open. For the latest Kodi 21.1 Omega, enter firesticktricks.com/kapk. Then, click GO.
Note: FireStickTricks.com does not own any APKs. This URL points to an external location.
5. Once the update file is downloaded, FireStick will automatically stage it. Click Install.
6. Wait for Kodi APK to install.
7. When the App Installed message is displayed, Kodi has been updated on FireStick.
Congratulations! The Kodi app on Fire TV Stick has been updated to the latest version. Launch Kodi and go to Settings > System to verify the new update. The version info is at the bottom.
How to Use Kodi on FireStick Safely
Everything you stream on Kodi is visible to your ISP and Government. Streaming free movies, TV shows, and Sports might get you into legal trouble. I always connect ExpressVPN on my FireStick, which is the fastest VPN for streaming. I suggest you do the same. A VPN for FireStick helps you bypass Online Surveillance, ISP throttling, and content geo-restrictions.
We do not encourage the violation of copyright laws. But what if you unintentionally stream content from an illegitimate source? It is not always easy to distinguish between a legitimate and illegal source.
So, before you stream any content on FireStick with Kodi, let’s see how to use ExpressVPN to keep your streaming activities hidden from prying eyes.
Step 1: Get ExpressVPN HERE. It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can use it freely for the first 30 days, and if you are not satisfied with the performance (which is highly unlikely), you can ask for a full refund.
Step 2: On your Fire TV / Stick, go to the Find > Search option. Type “Expressvpn” (without quotes) in the search bar and select ExpressVPN when it appears in the search results.
Step 3: Click the “Download” button to install the ExpressVPN Fire TV / Stick app.
Step 4: Open the app and enter the login credentials you created while buying the ExpressVPN subscription. Click “Sign in”.
Step 5: Click the Power icon to connect to a VPN server. That’s all. Your connection is now secure with the fastest and best VPN for FireStick.
You can also read more about using ExpressVPN with Fire TV / Stick.
How to Update Kodi Using the ES File Explorer App (Alternate method)
With the ES File Explorer App, you may sideload and update Kodi on FireStick. This is an alternate method. If you have already used the Downloader app for this purpose, there is no need to follow this method.
Note: ES File Explorer is no longer accessible. To sideload apps, you must pay $9.99 monthly (or use the unofficial version of ES File Explorer). That is why I recommend using the Downloader app. Install the ES File Explorer app and follow these quick steps below:
- Launch the ES File Explorer app.
- On the right, select and then click the Downloader icon.
- Click +New at the bottom.
- Enter this URL https://www.firesticktricks.com/kapk in the Path field and any name in the Name field.
- Click Download Now.
- Wait for the Kodi APK file to download.
- Click Open File.
- Click Install.
- Wait for a few seconds while Kodi installs on your device.
- Click Open.
That’s all. You have the latest Kodi update on your Fire Stick / Fire TV.
Kodi Update Failed on FireStick?
If the above method to update your Kodi app isn’t working, follow the steps below. We will do a clean install using this method, and your existing data will be lost.
Step 1: Uninstall Kodi from the Fire TV Stick
First, we need to uninstall the current version of Kodi from your Fire TV Stick. Follow the steps below.
1. Go to Fire Stick Settings and open Applications. Then, select Manage Installed Applications.
2. Navigate to Kodi and click it.
3. Click Force Stop to ensure Kodi is not running in the background.
4. Now click Uninstall.
Step 2: Reinstall the Kodi App on the Fire TV Stick
Now that you have removed Kodi from your Fire TV/Stick, we will reinstall Kodi 21.1 Omega, the latest stable release. The steps are similar to the update method, as shown above.
FAQ’s
The following section discusses some common FAQs regarding updating Kodi on FireStick.
How do you update Kodi on Amazon FireStick?
Users must manually update Kodi on FireStick as the app is unavailable on the Amazon Store. Therefore, you can use the Downloader application to install the Kodi updates on your streaming device. The above article describes the elaborate steps for updating Kodi. Please refer to it. Moreover, the above instructions are valid for all Fire TV devices.
What’s the latest version of Kodi?
The latest version of Kodi is 21.1 Omega, released to the public on August 2024.
Is Kodi Safe & Legal?
Kodi is safe and legal, as it’s a free media player. The app is officially available on many App Stores, such as Google Play and Microsoft Store, so we can’t question its safety and legal status.
However, Kodi depends on various official and unofficial add-ons to stream content. Some of these add-ons may contain malware or pirated content. So, streaming copyrighted content via add-ons is illegal and unsafe.
What you can watch on Kodi?
Kodi is often termed an entertainment hub. The open-source media player lets you stream everything, including movies, TV shows, live TV, sports, kids’ content, adult stuff, news, anime, and more. Download a relevant addon from the official repository to enjoy hours of uninterrupted media streaming.
Wrapping Up
The above guide described how to update Kodi on FireStick. You can use Downloader or the ES File Explorer app to update Kodi on your streaming stick. Both methods are straightforward and will quickly update Kodi software across all FireOS devices. However, as the ES File Explorer app is a paid service, I recommend you use the Downloader application and install the relevant updates for free.
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great help to those that want to cut the cord
thanks keep it up
Thank you Mike! Glad to be of service.
Installed Kodi today, appears to be v19.2 when I’ve checked in settings but can’t find any of the recommended downloads that you recommend amongst the lust…..am I looking in the wrong place?
Hi Tony, simply installing Kodi on your device won’t do the trick. To utilize Kodi to the fullest and reap its full benefits, you’ll need Kodi Addons. These addons complement Kodi by helping users access tons of streaming services, TV channels, music and radio stations, and more. The guides to help you download the addons are found underneath each addon description.
Why the hell would you give a step by step tutorial on how to download the latest version of Kodi, only to suggest, at the end of said tutorial, to not use it and down an older version? Now I’m starting from scratch.
Hi CarRamrod, this is a guide on how to update Kodi to the latest version. As per your request, I have added the recommendation for 19.2 at the top of the post for future readers.
I was running 18.6 and downloaded 19.3 as above on to my Firestick 2 and installed. It ran the first time setup then closed. Each time to tried to run it again it would close immediately. I tried to then downgrade to 19.2 this downloaded but would not install with an error saying not installed. So my Kodi is now screwed and I will have to delete and reinstall from scratch losing everything I had set up previously.
Hi Tony, it is always recommended to backup your Kodi before downloading a new version. You will find how to back-up up your Kodi at the top of this guide.
Even though 19.3 is the latest version, most third-party add-ons do not support it yet. If you want to revert to 19.2, please try updating again using this URL – https://www.firesticktricks.com/k192.
I just want to reply concerning the people that doesn’t want to pay for anything. I know I’m more than happy to pay for a VPN and real- Debrid because it is still enormously cheaper than a cable are satellite bill… and this is a true Proverb, “ You get what ya pay for” so if I don’t pay for something I’ll end up with nothing… peace to all my coed cutters….
Hello Patrick. I’m Huston. I want to express my gratitude towards you for this site. It is very informative and easily understood. Plain laymen terms. I hope you continue with your contributions.. thanks brother…
Hi Hulon, thank you. Your words mean a lot!
I updated to Leia v. 18.9. I’m still getting “no stream available” on my add-ons. What do I do?
Hi Jan, you may want to take a look at this guide: https://www.firesticktricks.com/kodi-not-working.html
Simple, thorough and effective thanks ^____^
Well. Followed your directions. Very clear by the way. In order to download it’s telling me I need to upgrade to ESPremium. It’s offering a free trial but I don’t want to have to pay after that.
Hey, the first method I showed in the guide is using the Downloader app. It is free and works great. ES File Explorer method is an alternative for users who are unable to access the downloader app.
followed your video kept defaulting then I noticed you forgot the”s” in hppts;//
Hi, we are coming up with a new and updated video soon. In the meantime, please follow the instructions provided in the screenshot tutorial in this guide.