Quick Guide: How To Get Kodi On Samsung Smart Tv Now

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You might wonder how to put Kodi on your Samsung Smart TV. Can you install the Kodi app right onto your TV? The quick answer is no, you cannot directly install the Kodi app onto a Samsung Smart TV because these TVs use Samsung’s own operating system, called Tizen OS, which does not support the Kodi application. However, there are good ways to get Kodi onto your Samsung Smart TV by using other devices or methods. This guide will show you the best ways to enjoy Kodi on your big screen.

How To Get Kodi On Samsung Smart Tv
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Deciphering Why Direct Kodi Install Isn’t Possible

Samsung Smart TVs are great for watching shows and movies. They come with their own system, Samsung Smart TV Tizen OS. This system is made for specific apps found in the Samsung app store. Kodi is not one of these apps.

Kodi is a powerful media player. It lets you play videos, music, and pictures from many places. It was first made for other types of devices, like computers and Android boxes. Samsung’s Tizen OS is different. It does not have the right parts or allow the kind of access Kodi needs to run properly. Because of this difference, there is no simple Samsung TV Kodi app download available in Samsung’s app store. You cannot just search for Kodi and install it like you would Netflix or YouTube.

So, if you cannot put the Kodi app right on the TV, how can you use Kodi and see it on your Samsung screen? You need to use something else that can run Kodi, and then show that on your TV. Think of it like using your TV as a display for another device.

The Best Way to Get Kodi on Samsung TV: Use an External Device

This is the most popular and often the Best way to get Kodi on Samsung TV. Instead of trying to put Kodi on the TV itself, you put Kodi on a small, separate box or stick. Then you plug that box or stick into your Samsung TV. The TV just shows what is happening on that device. This method gives you the full Run Kodi on Samsung Smart TV experience.

Why is this the best way?
* You get the complete Kodi program, with all its features.
* It usually runs very smoothly.
* You control Kodi using a remote that comes with the external device, which is easy.
* Many devices that run Kodi well are not expensive.

There are different types of external devices you can use.

Popular External Device for Kodi Samsung TV Setup

Here are some common devices people use:

Amazon Fire TV Stick

This is a very popular choice. Fire Sticks are small and plug right into an HDMI port on your TV. They run a version of Android, which Kodi works very well on.

How to Connect Fire Stick to Samsung TV

Connecting a Fire Stick is simple:
1. Find an empty HDMI port on the back or side of your Samsung TV.
2. Plug the Fire Stick directly into the HDMI port.
3. Plug the small power cable into the Fire Stick.
4. Plug the other end of the power cable into a wall outlet or a USB port on your TV (wall outlet is better for power).
5. Turn on your Samsung TV.
6. Use your TV remote to change the input source. Change it to the HDMI port where you plugged in the Fire Stick (like HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.).
7. You will see the Fire TV Stick setup screen. Follow the steps on your TV screen. This involves connecting it to your Wi-Fi and logging in with your Amazon account.

How to Run Kodi on Samsung Smart TV Using a Fire Stick

Once your Fire Stick is set up and you see its main menu on your Samsung TV screen, you can install Kodi onto the Fire Stick.

You cannot download Kodi directly from the Amazon Appstore. You need to install it using a different method, like “sideloading.” This sounds hard, but it is not.

Here are the basic steps to put Kodi on your Fire Stick and Run Kodi on Samsung Smart TV:

  1. Prepare the Fire Stick:

    • Go to the Fire Stick settings.
    • Find “My Fire TV.”
    • Choose “Developer Options.”
    • Turn ON “Apps from Unknown Sources.” You might see a warning. Click “Enable” or “Turn On.” This lets you install apps not from the Amazon Appstore.
    • Go back to the main settings menu.
    • Go to “Preferences.”
    • Choose “Privacy Settings.”
    • Turn OFF “Device Usage Data” and “Collect App Usage Data.” This is good for privacy and can make things a bit faster.

  2. Install a Downloader App:

    • Go back to the Fire Stick home screen.
    • Search for an app called “Downloader.”
    • Install the “Downloader” app from the search results. It has an orange icon.

  3. Use Downloader to Get Kodi:

    • Open the “Downloader” app.
    • If it asks for permission to access files, say “Allow.”
    • You will see a box to type a web address.
    • You need to type the web address where you can download the Kodi installation file (APK file). Find the latest version address on the official Kodi website (kodi.tv/download). Look for the Android version and find the link for the “ARMV7A (32BIT)” file. A common address format might look like https://kodi.tv/downloads/android/arm/ followed by the file name, or you can often find direct links by searching online (be careful to use a trusted source, like the official Kodi site). A simpler way often shared online is a shortcut URL that redirects, but the official site is best. Let’s assume you find the direct link or a trusted shortcut. Type that address carefully into the Downloader app.
    • Click “Go.”
    • Downloader will download the Kodi file.
    • Once it finishes downloading, a box will pop up asking if you want to install the app.
    • Click “Install.”
    • After installation finishes, you will see a message saying the app is installed.
    • Click “Done.”
    • Downloader will ask if you want to delete the installation file. It is good to delete it to save space. Click “Delete,” then click “Delete” again to confirm.

  4. Open Kodi:

    • Go back to the Fire Stick home screen.
    • Go to “Your Apps & Channels.”
    • Find the Kodi app icon. It is usually near the end of your list of apps.
    • Click on the Kodi icon to open it.
    • Kodi will start on your Fire Stick, and you will see the Kodi screen on your Samsung TV.

Now you can use Kodi fully. You can add video add-ons, music, and connect it to your own media library. Using a Fire Stick is a very effective External device for Kodi Samsung TV use. It really is the Best way to get Kodi on Samsung TV for most people who want the full Kodi experience.

Android TV Box

An Android TV Box is like a small computer that runs Android TV. It connects to your TV with an HDMI cable. These boxes are designed for TV and often come with a good remote.

Setting up Kodi on an Android TV Box
  1. Connect the Box: Plug the Android TV box into your Samsung TV with an HDMI cable. Connect it to power.
  2. Turn on and Set Up: Turn on the box and your TV. Change the TV input to the right HDMI port. Follow the on-screen steps to set up the Android TV box (connect to Wi-Fi, log in with Google account).
  3. Install Kodi: Once the box is set up, go to the Google Play Store app on the box. Search for “Kodi.”
  4. Download and Install: Click on the Kodi app and click “Install.” Since it is in the official Play Store for Android TV, installation is easy and direct.
  5. Open Kodi: Find the Kodi app on your Android TV box’s home screen and open it.

Using an Android TV box is another great External device for Kodi Samsung TV needs. It also offers the full Run Kodi on Samsung Smart TV experience.

Windows or Mac Mini PC

You can also use a small Windows or Mac computer. These connect to your TV with an HDMI cable.

Setting up Kodi on a Mini PC
  1. Connect the PC: Plug the Mini PC into your Samsung TV with an HDMI cable. Connect it to power. You will also need a mouse and keyboard to set it up.
  2. Turn on and Set Up: Turn on the computer and TV. Change the TV input. Set up Windows or macOS if needed.
  3. Download and Install Kodi: Open a web browser on the Mini PC. Go to the official Kodi website (kodi.tv/download). Download the Windows or macOS version of Kodi. Run the downloaded file and follow the steps to install Kodi on the computer.
  4. Open Kodi: Find Kodi in your applications list and open it. It will show up on your Samsung TV screen.

This method works well, but it might be more expensive than a Fire Stick or Android TV box. You also need a way to control the computer from your couch (a wireless keyboard/mouse or a special remote app). But it gives you a very powerful way to Run Kodi on Samsung Smart TV.

All these external device methods provide the full Kodi experience on your Samsung TV. They avoid the problem of the Samsung Smart TV Tizen OS not supporting Kodi directly.

Mirroring Kodi to Samsung TV (Less Ideal)

Another way to see Kodi on your Samsung TV is by showing the screen of another device (like your phone or computer) on the TV. This is called screen mirroring or casting.

With screen mirroring Kodi Samsung TV shows exactly what is on the screen of your phone or computer. If you open Kodi on your phone, you will see Kodi on your TV.

Samsung TVs have a feature called Samsung Smart View. This can sometimes be used to mirror your phone’s screen. So, you could try to Mirror Kodi to Samsung TV using Samsung Smart View Kodi or other screen mirroring apps.

How Screen Mirroring Kodi Samsung Might Work

  1. Install Kodi on a Phone or PC: Put the Kodi app on your phone (Android or iOS, but Kodi is easier on Android phones) or your computer (Windows or Mac).
  2. Use Mirroring Feature:
    • For Android Phone: Use the built-in screen mirroring feature (often called Cast, Smart View, Screen Cast, etc.) on your phone. Find your Samsung TV in the list of devices and try to connect.
    • For iPhone: Use AirPlay (if your Samsung TV supports it, newer models do).
    • For Windows PC: Use the “Connect to a wireless display” feature (Windows + K).
    • Using Samsung Smart View: Samsung has a Smart View app for phones and sometimes built-in features on TVs. You can try using this to initiate Samsung Smart View Kodi mirroring from a compatible device.
  3. Open Kodi on the Source Device: Once the screen is mirrored, open Kodi on your phone or computer. You should see it appear on your Samsung TV.

Problems with Mirror Kodi to Samsung TV

While mirroring seems easy, it is often not the Best way to get Kodi on Samsung TV for regular use.
* Quality: The picture quality might not be as good as using a direct connection from an external box. It can look blurry or choppy.
* Smoothness: Video playback might not be smooth. It can stutter or lag.
* Control: You have to control Kodi using your phone or computer. This can be awkward from your couch.
* Device Must Stay On: The phone or computer that is mirroring must stay on and unlocked while you watch. This drains its battery.
* Compatibility: Screen mirroring does not always work perfectly with all devices and TVs. Samsung Smart View Kodi compatibility can vary.

Screen mirroring Kodi Samsung is okay for showing something quickly, but for watching movies or shows regularly, using an external device is much better.

Using DLNA/UPnP (Limited Use)

Kodi has a feature that lets it share its media library over your home network. This uses technology called DLNA or UPnP. Your Samsung Smart TV can often connect to devices on your network that are sharing media this way.

How DLNA/UPnP Works with Kodi and Samsung TV

  1. Set up Kodi as a Server: On a device that runs Kodi (like a computer or an Android box), go into Kodi’s settings. Find the “Services” settings.
  2. Enable UPnP/DLNA: Turn on the option that says “Share my libraries” or “Enable UPnP/DLNA server.”
  3. Access from Samsung TV: Go to the main menu on your Samsung Smart TV. Look for something like “Source,” “Media Server,” “Network,” or “Connected Devices.” Your TV should find the device running Kodi on your network.
  4. Browse Media: You can open the connection to the Kodi device through your TV’s menu. You will be able to see and play the videos, music, and pictures that Kodi is sharing from your library.

What DLNA/UPnP Does NOT Do

This method does not Run Kodi on Samsung Smart TV. You do not see the Kodi menus or interface on your TV. You only see your media files listed using your Samsung TV’s own menu system. You cannot use Kodi add-ons this way. It is only for playing media files that Kodi has indexed from your own library.

So, while it uses Kodi, it is not a way to experience the full Kodi application on your TV. It is more about using Kodi as a media server that your TV can access. It is not a replacement for the Kodi setup on Samsung Smart TV alternatives that let you run the actual app.

Comparing the Methods

Let’s look at the pros and cons of each method to help you decide the Best way to get Kodi on Samsung TV for you.

Method How Kodi App Runs? Ease of Setup (Generally) Performance & Experience Features Available Cost (Generally) Notes
External Device Runs fully on the external device Medium Excellent (Smooth, High Quality) Full Kodi (Add-ons, Library) Varies (Low for Stick, Higher for PC) Recommended for full Kodi. Connect Fire Stick to Samsung TV is popular.
Screen Mirroring/Casting Runs on phone/PC, screen shown on TV Easy Can be Poor (Laggy, Lower Quality) Full Kodi (but controlled remotely) Free (using existing devices) Good for quick showing, bad for watching full movies. Samsung Smart View Kodi might be used.
DLNA/UPnP Runs on network device (Kodi acts as server) Medium Good (for playing local files) Only plays shared media files Free (using existing devices) Does NOT show the Kodi interface. No add-ons.

As you can see, using an External device for Kodi Samsung TV connection is clearly the winner if you want the complete Kodi experience with add-ons and a smooth picture. It is the Best way to get Kodi on Samsung TV. Screen mirroring is a quick fix but not great for watching. DLNA is only for playing your own media files.

Detailed Steps: Connect Fire Stick to Samsung TV for Kodi

Let’s go over the Fire Stick steps again simply, as this is such a popular method for Kodi setup on Samsung Smart TV alternatives like using an external player. This will help you Run Kodi on Samsung Smart TV using this method.

These steps help you Connect Fire Stick to Samsung TV and then put Kodi on it.

Getting the Fire Stick Ready

  1. Plug the Fire Stick into an HDMI port on your TV.
  2. Plug the power cable into the Fire Stick and the wall.
  3. Turn on your TV and go to the right HDMI input.
  4. Follow the steps on the TV screen to set up the Fire Stick (connect Wi-Fi, log in to Amazon).
  5. On the Fire Stick, go to Settings.
  6. Go to My Fire TV.
  7. Go to Developer Options.
  8. Turn ON Apps from Unknown Sources.
  9. Go back to Settings.
  10. Go to Preferences.
  11. Go to Privacy Settings.
  12. Turn OFF Device Usage Data.
  13. Turn OFF Collect App Usage Data.

Putting Kodi on the Fire Stick

  1. From the Fire Stick Home screen, find the Search icon (magnifying glass).
  2. Type “Downloader” and search for it.
  3. Click on the Downloader app (orange icon) and click Get or Download.
  4. Once installed, click Open.
  5. If asked to allow access to files, click Allow.
  6. In the Downloader app, you will see a box to type a web address. You need the address for the Kodi APK file. The best source is the official Kodi website. Go to kodi.tv/download on a computer or phone to find the latest Android version link (ARMV7A 32BIT). Let’s assume you found the link.
  7. Type that link into the box in the Downloader app. It will look something like https://xxxxx/kodi-version-arm.apk. (Note: You MUST get the correct, current link from the official Kodi site or a very trusted source. Links change.) A common shortcut is often used, like troypoint.com/dl or similar, but use with caution and verify the source.
  8. Click Go.
  9. Downloader will get the file.
  10. After the download, a new window will pop up. Click Install.
  11. After installation finishes, click Done.
  12. Downloader will ask if you want to delete the file. Click Delete, then Delete again.

Opening Kodi on Your TV

  1. Go back to the Fire Stick Home screen.
  2. Find Your Apps & Channels. You might need to click See All.
  3. Scroll down to find the Kodi app icon.
  4. Click the Kodi icon.

Kodi will now open and Run Kodi on Samsung Smart TV, controlled by your Fire Stick remote. This is how people successfully use Kodi with their Samsung TVs because a direct Samsung TV Kodi app download does not exist.

Kodi Setup on Samsung Smart TV Alternatives Explained

When people talk about Kodi setup on Samsung Smart TV, they are really looking for ways to use Kodi with their Samsung TV, since a direct installation is impossible due to the Samsung Smart TV Tizen OS. The alternatives are the methods we discussed:

  1. Using an External Streaming Device: This is the main and best alternative. Devices like Fire Sticks, Android TV Boxes, and Mini PCs run Kodi and plug into the TV. This is what most users mean by getting Kodi on their Samsung TV. It provides the full Kodi application experience.
  2. Screen Mirroring: Showing your phone or computer screen (with Kodi running on it) on the TV. This is less of a setup and more of a temporary display method.
  3. Using Kodi as a DLNA Server: Letting the TV play files shared by Kodi over the network. This is for local media only and does not show the Kodi interface.

These are the practical Kodi setup on Samsung Smart TV alternatives you have right now. The lack of a Samsung TV Kodi app download means you must rely on these other methods.

Why External Devices Are the Winner

Let’s make it clear why using an External device for Kodi Samsung TV setup is the best path:

  • Full Features: You get all of Kodi. You can use add-ons for streaming, manage your movie library, listen to music, and much more.
  • Smooth Playback: These devices are built to play media well. Videos are usually smooth and look great on your Samsung screen.
  • Good Control: You use a remote made for the device, which is easy to use from your couch.
  • Stable: It is a reliable way to watch. Screen mirroring can disconnect or have stutters.
  • Independent: Your phone or computer is free to use for other things.
  • Constant Experience: The way Kodi looks and works is the same, no matter which Samsung TV model you have, as long as it has an HDMI port.

Using an external device gives you the true Run Kodi on Samsung Smart TV experience you are likely looking for. It overcomes the barrier created by the Samsung Smart TV Tizen OS.

Making Your Kodi Experience Smooth

Once you have Kodi running on an external device and connected to your Samsung TV, here are some tips for a better experience:

  • Internet Speed: Make sure your home Wi-Fi is fast and stable. Streaming requires good internet.
  • Wired Connection: If possible, connect your external device (like an Android box or Mini PC) to your router using an Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi. This is usually faster and more reliable.
  • Kodi Add-ons: If you plan to stream using add-ons, research reputable ones. Be aware that the legality of streaming content via some add-ons can vary depending on what you are watching and where you live.
  • Kodi Updates: Update Kodi on your external device sometimes to get new features and fixes.
  • Remote Control Apps: For Android TV boxes or Mini PCs, you can often use a remote control app on your phone. Some Kodi remote apps are also available. The Fire Stick comes with its own remote.
  • TV Remote: Your Samsung TV remote might be able to control some functions of the external device if you enable HDMI-CEC (sometimes called Anynet+) in your TV and device settings. This can make things a bit easier.

By using an external device, you bypass the limitations of the Samsung Smart TV Tizen OS and get the full power of Kodi right there on your large Samsung display. This is the practical and Best way to get Kodi on Samsung TV today, since a direct Samsung TV Kodi app download is not available. Forget screen mirroring for long watches; connect a box or stick and enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to common questions about getting Kodi on Samsung Smart TVs.

Q: Can I really not install Kodi directly on my Samsung Smart TV?

A: No, you cannot. Samsung Smart TVs use a system called Tizen OS. Kodi is not made for Tizen OS, and there is no official Kodi app in the Samsung app store. You cannot do a direct Samsung TV Kodi app download.

Q: What is the easiest way to use Kodi with my Samsung TV?

A: The easiest and Best way to get Kodi on Samsung TV for most people is to use an external streaming device like an Amazon Fire TV Stick or an Android TV box. These devices plug into your TV and can run the full Kodi app.

Q: How do I use a Fire Stick with my Samsung TV to get Kodi?

A: You connect the Fire Stick to an HDMI port on your Samsung TV. Then, you install the Kodi app onto the Fire Stick (often by using the Downloader app since it is not in the Amazon app store). Once Kodi is on the Fire Stick, you just open it, and it shows on your TV. This lets you Run Kodi on Samsung Smart TV via the Fire Stick.

Q: Can I use screen mirroring to show Kodi on my Samsung TV?

A: Yes, you can use screen mirroring (like Samsung Smart View Kodi or other mirroring methods) to show the screen of a phone or computer running Kodi on your TV. However, this method often has problems like lag, poor picture quality, and you must keep the mirroring device on. It is not ideal for regular watching.

Q: What kind of external device for Kodi Samsung TV connection should I get?

A: Amazon Fire TV Sticks (like the 4K or 4K Max) are very popular because they are not too expensive and work well with Kodi. Android TV boxes offer a similar experience. Even a small Windows or Mac computer can work, but they cost more.

Q: Does using an external device give me the full Kodi experience?

A: Yes. When you install Kodi on an external device like a Fire Stick or Android TV box, you get the complete, official Kodi application. You can use all its features, including add-ons, library management, and settings, getting the full Run Kodi on Samsung Smart TV experience (through the external device).

Q: Is using DLNA/UPnP on my Samsung TV the same as running Kodi?

A: No. Using DLNA/UPnP lets your Samsung TV find media files (videos, music, pictures) that Kodi is sharing over your home network. You can play these files using your TV’s built-in media player. You do not see the Kodi interface or use Kodi add-ons this way. It is not a way to Run Kodi on Samsung Smart TV; it is just using Kodi as a server for your TV.

Q: Are there other apps like Kodi available on Samsung TVs?

A: Samsung Smart TV Tizen OS has its own app store with many streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, Plex, and more. While these apps let you watch media, none of them are exactly like Kodi, which is designed to be a full, customizable media center that can play media from many different sources, including your own files and certain add-ons. They are Kodi setup on Samsung Smart TV alternatives for watching content, but not for getting the Kodi interface.

Q: Is it complicated to install Kodi on a Fire Stick or Android box?

A: It is usually not very complicated. For Android TV boxes from the Google Play Store, it is as easy as installing any other app. For Fire Sticks, it requires a few extra steps (turning on unknown sources, using a downloader app) but many guides (like this one) make it simple.

By understanding that you need an external device due to the limitations of Samsung Smart TV Tizen OS and the lack of a direct Samsung TV Kodi app download, you can choose the Best way to get Kodi on Samsung TV for your needs and start enjoying your media collection.