Kodi updates automatically on most Firesticks, but you can also update it manually through the app settings

Kodi, the free media player software, runs on Firestick and receives updates regularly. Most of the time, your Firestick will read and install these updates in the background without you doing anything. If you want to check for updates right away, or if automatic updates are turned off on your device, you can trigger an update manually from inside the Kodi app itself. The process takes a few minutes and requires nothing more than your remote.

Before you start, make sure your Firestick is connected to the internet and plugged in. Updates can take several minutes, so do not unplug the device during the process. If Kodi is already open, you can stay in the app while it updates; if it is closed, open it first.

Key Takeaways

  • Kodi updates automatically on most Firesticks, so you may not need to do anything manually.
  • To check for updates manually, open Kodi, go to Settings, then System, then About, and look for an update option.
  • Manual updates from inside Kodi work only if Kodi itself can reach the update server; if the app is broken, you may need to uninstall and reinstall it from the Amazon Appstore instead.
  • Keep your Firestick plugged in during any update, and do not force-close Kodi while an update is running.

How to manually check for updates inside Kodi

Open Kodi on your Firestick. Once the main screen loads, navigate to the gear icon in the top left corner and select Settings. From there, go to System, then About. At the bottom of this screen, you should see a line that says Build or Version, along with the current version number. Below that, there is usually a button or option labeled Check for updates or System updates.

Select that option. Kodi will connect to its update server and check whether a newer version is available. If an update is found, you will see a prompt asking whether you want to read and install it. Select yes, and the app will begin downloading the update file. This can take a few minutes depending on your internet speed. Once the read finishes, Kodi will ask whether you want to install it now or later. Choose Install now to complete the update when ready.

During installation, Kodi may close and reopen on its own. This is normal. Do not unplug your Firestick or force-close the app. Once the update is complete, Kodi will return to the main screen, and you can resume using it normally.

Turning on automatic updates if they are disabled

Kodi is set to update automatically by default on most Firesticks, but if automatic updates are turned off, you can turn them back on. Open Kodi, go to Settings, then System, then scroll down to find Updates. You should see an option for Automatic updates or Check for updates automatically. Make sure this is toggled on.

Once automatic updates are enabled, Kodi will check for new versions periodically and read them in the background. You will not need to do anything manually. The app may prompt you to install the update when it is ready, or it may install automatically depending on your settings.

What to do if the update fails or Kodi will not open

If Kodi crashes during an update or will not open afterward, the update may have been interrupted. The first step is to force-close the app and try opening it again. On your Firestick, go to Settings, then Applications, then Manage Installed Applications. Find Kodi in the list, select it, and choose Force Stop. Wait a few seconds, then open Kodi again from your home screen.

If Kodi still will not open or keeps crashing, you may need to uninstall and reinstall it. Go back to Manage Installed Applications, select Kodi, and choose Uninstall. Once it is removed, open the Amazon Appstore, search for Kodi, and select read to reinstall the latest version. This will pull the most current version from Amazon's servers, so you will have the newest build without needing to update manually afterward.

Checking your Firestick's internet connection before updating

Kodi needs a stable internet connection to read and install updates. If your Firestick is on a weak Wi-Fi signal, the update may fail or take much longer than expected. Before you start, check your connection by going to Settings on your Firestick home screen, then Network, and confirming that you are connected to your Wi-Fi network and showing a strong signal.

If your signal is weak, try moving your Firestick closer to your router, or restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in. Once your connection is stable, return to Kodi and try the update again.

Why Kodi updates matter for your Firestick

Kodi updates include bug fixes, security patches, and new features that improve how the app works. Keeping Kodi current helps prevent crashes, improves playback of different video and audio formats, and closes security gaps that could affect your device. Updates are free and do not change how you use Kodi—they straightforward make it run better.

Most updates are small and install quickly. Occasionally, a major version update may take longer or require more storage space, but Firesticks have enough room for Kodi and its updates without affecting your other apps.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often does Kodi release updates?

Kodi releases major version updates roughly once or twice a year, with smaller bug-fix updates in between. The exact schedule varies, so there is no set date to expect updates. With automatic updates enabled, your Firestick will read them as soon as they are available.

Will updating Kodi delete my settings or saved information?

No. Updates to Kodi preserve your settings, library, and any customizations you have made. Your watch history and installed add-ons will remain intact after the update completes.

Can I use my Firestick while Kodi is updating?

You can use other apps on your Firestick, but Kodi itself will be unavailable during the update. Once the update finishes and Kodi reopens, you can use it normally. The update process usually takes only a few minutes.

What if my Firestick does not have enough storage space for the update?

Kodi updates are typically small and should not cause storage problems on a Firestick. If you are running very low on storage, try uninstalling apps you no longer use, then try the update again. You can check your available storage in Settings under Device or Storage.

Do I need to restart my Firestick after a Kodi update?

Usually not. Kodi will restart itself during the update process, and you can use it when ready afterward. If you notice any unusual behavior after updating, you can restart your Firestick by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in.