This comprehensive guide will show you two easy methods for installing Kodi on the Chromecast with Google TV streaming device.
Kodi is one of the most popular and powerful media center apps available today. It offers users endless entertainment options through various add-ons and builds.
Installing Kodi on your new Chromecast with Google TV opens up a whole new world of streaming possibilities. You‘ll be able to access free movies, TV shows, live sports, and more!
In this guide, you‘ll learn:
- What is Kodi and why install it on Chromecast with Google TV
- Step-by-step instructions for installing via the Google Play Store
- Step-by-step instructions for sideloading with Downloader app
- How to move Kodi to the home screen for easy access
- Why you should use a VPN for privacy when streaming with Kodi
- Troubleshooting tips for any issues during installation
- Additional resources to get the most out of Kodi
Let‘s get started!
What is Kodi?
Kodi is open-source media center software that allows users to access free movies, TV shows, live channels, kids content, sports, and more through community-built add-ons.
It provides a central hub to manage your personal media library while enabling limitless streaming possibilities. Kodi essentially turns any device into an all-in-one entertainment system.
Although Kodi itself is 100% legal, some of the third-party add-ons accessible through the platform may provide copyright-infringing content. This makes using a VPN for privacy extremely important.
Kodi is available on almost any device you can think of – Firestick, Android TV boxes, Roku, Windows, Mac, iOS, and more. The Kodi team does an excellent job keeping the platform updated across various operating systems.
Now let‘s get it installed on the new Chromecast with Google TV!
Install Kodi on Chromecast via Google Play Store
The easiest way to install Kodi on your Chromecast is directly through the Google Play Store. Here are the quick steps:
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From the Chromecast home screen, click on the magnifying glass icon to search.
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Type "Kodi" into the search bar.
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Select the Kodi app from the search results.
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Click Install.
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Once installed, go back to the Chromecast home screen.
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Scroll down to the Apps section and find the Kodi app icon.
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Highlight the Kodi app and hold the OK button on your remote.
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Choose Move to move Kodi to your preferred location on the home screen.
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Click OK to place it.
That‘s it! Kodi will now be available right from your Chromecast home screen for quick and easy access.
The first time opening Kodi, you may need to accept a few permission popups for data access and storage.
Once those are accepted, Kodi will fully launch – then the real fun begins!
Sideload Kodi using Downloader App
You can also install Kodi on the Chromecast by sideloading the APK file using a third-party app called Downloader.
This method involves accessing developer options to allow app installation from "Unknown Sources".
Here are the step-by-step instructions:
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From the Chromecast home screen, search for "Downloader" in the Google Play Store. Install it.
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Go to Settings > System > About and select "Android TV OS build" multiple times until Developer Options are enabled.
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Return to Settings > Apps > Security & Restrictions. Enable "Unknown Sources" for Downloader.
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Open the Downloader app and allow requested permissions.
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In the URL bar, enter:
example.com/kodiand click Go to download the Kodi APK. -
Once downloaded, click Install.
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After installation completes, click Delete in Downloader to remove the APK.
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Return to the Chromecast home screen and you will now see Kodi available in your Apps.
That‘s all there is to it! The Downloader method does involve a few extra steps, but gives you the flexibility of sideloading any Android APK in the future.
Protect Your Privacy with a VPN
When streaming free movies, shows, live sports, and other content with Kodi, it‘s highly recommended to use a trusted VPN.
A VPN will encrypt all of your internet traffic and hide your IP address. This prevents your internet service provider from monitoring what you stream through Kodi.
It also provides essential privacy protection and anonymity when accessing potentially questionable add-ons.
Some top VPN choices to consider for privacy when using Kodi include:
- ExpressVPN
- NordVPN
- Surfshark
- Private Internet Access
A quality VPN is an essential accessory when streaming with Kodi – don‘t skip this step!
Get the Most Out of Kodi
Now that you have Kodi installed on your Chromecast with Google TV, here are some recommended resources to help you get the most out of this incredible streaming platform:
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Kodi Add-Ons – Discover new add-ons for free movies, shows, sports, music, and more.
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Kodi Wiki Add-on Guide – Detailed directory of popular Kodi add-ons.
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Best Kodi Builds – Pre-configured Kodi set ups for easy streaming.
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Kodi Buffering Fixes – Solutions for improving slow streaming.
Take your streaming experience on Chromecast to the next level with the power of Kodi. The add-ons and customization options are endless.
Common Kodi on Chromecast Issues
Here are some common troubleshooting fixes for any issues that arise with Kodi on your Chromecast:
Kodi not installing – Ensure you have allowed permissions and enabled install from Unknown Sources if sideloading. Disable any antivirus temporarily.
Kodi crashing on launch – Try re-installing Kodi or perform a factory reset of the Chromecast device. Update to the latest Kodi version.
Kodi streams not loading – Check for VPN or proxy interference. Ensure you are using reputable add-ons and have a stable internet connection.
Buffering and lagging – Close background apps, restart router, clear Kodi cache, adjust buffering in Kodi settings upward.
Still having issues? The official Kodi forum is a great place to search for solutions.
Is Kodi on Chromecast Legal?
The Kodi media center software itself is perfectly legal. However, some of the third-party add-ons and content accessed through Kodi may exist in legal grey areas.
Copyright law around streaming remains complex. While Kodi enables you to manage and view your own personal media library, caution is advised when installing certain add-ons that provide free access to movies, shows, sports, etc.
Using a VPN helps keep your streaming activities private and anonymous for greater peace of mind. But legality with regards to content will depend on your location and local laws.
In summary, Kodi itself is just a media player software. But it does provide access to add-ons that stream copyrighted material. Use common sense and stay safe with a VPN!
Unlock Endless Streaming on Chromecast
Installing Kodi opens up a whole new world of streaming on your Chromecast device. From free movies and shows to live sports and music, the entertainment options are endless.
I hope this guide has equipped you with the step-by-step process for successfully installing Kodi through both the Google Play Store or Downloader sideloading methods.
Be sure to protect your privacy with a trusted VPN. And explore the many add-ons to optimize your Kodi streaming experience!
Enjoy all your favorite entertainment unlocked on Chromecast with the power of Kodi. Feel free to contact me with any questions!
