Imagine combining the versatility of Kodi, the open-source media player, with the convenience of your Roku. It sounds like a dream come true and this dream just turned into reality! So, is Kodi available on Roku, and how do you watch it?
Sadly, Kodi is not officially accessible on Roku Players. However, you can use screen mirroring on Android, iOS, and Windows devices to watch Kodi content on your Roku device. Just be sure you have screen mirroring enabled on the Roku and that both devices are connected to the same WiFi network.
Don’t feel intimidated if you haven’t used screen mirroring on your Roku device yet. The process is straightforward and allows you to enjoy content from third-party applications like Kodi. But there’s a lot to keep in mind before diving into the deep end. Let’s look at everything you need to know about streaming Kodi on a Roku Player.
Is Kodi Available on a Roku?
Kodi is a free, open-source media player application created by the Kodi Foundation. The application transforms a computer, smartphone, or tablet into a digital set-top box, allowing access to content from the internet, home networks, and local storage. It is available for several operating systems and platforms.
Unfortunately, unlike the on the Firestick, Kodi is not officially accessible on Roku Players. Roku has a separate operating system—Roku OS—which does not allow the installation of third-party software, such as Kodi.
Fortunately, there are a few workarounds you can use to access Kodi on a Roku Player, including screen mirroring and third-party screen mirroring apps like AllCast or Miracast. It is possible to cast Kodi TV shows and movies using Android, iOS, and Windows devices.
Does Roku Have a Kodi App?
No, Roku does not provide an official Kodi App in the Channel Store. It is unlikely that a Kodi App will be added to the Channel Store in the future. Roku uses a separate OS that does not support the installation of third-party programs like Kodi.
That said, you can use workarounds, like screen mirroring, to stream your favorite TV shows and movies from Kodi to a compatible Roku device. Kodi is free to use, and the screen mirroring process is straightforward. Keep reading for more information on how to use the Kodi App on your Roku streaming player.
How to Watch Kodi on a Roku
Although there isn’t an official Kodi App for Roku devices, you can cast the platform from other devices.
Screen mirroring allows you to display Kodi content from a smartphone, tablet, computer, or laptop onto your Roku Player. Both devices must be connected to the same WiFi network, and you must enable screen mirroring on the Roku.
Keep in mind that these methods may not offer the same level of functionality as using Kodi on a supported device. Kodi may violate Roku’s terms of service, so use the following methods at your discretion.
Using an iPhone
You can cast Kodi content to your Roku device using an iPhone with the screen mirroring feature on compatible models. The process is straightforward, but you must have screen mirroring enabled, and both devices must be on the WiFi network.
Use the following steps to get started:
- Power on your Roku device and click the Home Button using the Roku Remote.
- Navigate to ‘Settings’ and select ‘System Updates.’ Ensure you have the latest software update.
- From ‘Settings,’ navigate to ‘Screen Mirroring.’
- Choose ‘Enable Screen Mirroring’ and click ‘OK’ to confirm your choices.
- Ensure your iPhone is on the same WiFi network as your Roku.
- Open the Control Center on your iPhone.
- Select ‘Screen Mirroring.’ Your iPhone will start scanning for nearby devices.
- Select your Roku model once it appears in the list of nearby devices.
- Launch the Kodi App on your iPhone to start casting media to your Roku.
Keep in mind that some media may not be available for casting due to copyright laws or other restrictions. Furthermore, screen mirroring doesn’t always offer the same level of functionality as using a supported device.
Using an Android
It’s possible to use an Android smartphone or tablet to stream Kodi content to a compatible Roku device. The process is similar to the iPhone but varies slightly. Both devices will need to be on the same WiFi network, and your Roku must have screen mirroring enabled.
Use the following instructions to get started:
- Power on your Roku device and click the Home Button using the Roku Remote.
- Navigate to ‘Settings’ and select ‘System Updates.’ Ensure you have the latest software update.
- From ‘Settings,’ navigate to ‘Screen Mirroring.’
- Choose ‘Enable Screen Mirroring’ and click ‘OK’ to confirm your choices.
- Ensure your Android device is connected to the same WiFi network as your Roku Player.
- Open the ‘Settings App’ on your Android device.
- Select ‘Display.’
- Next, click ‘Cast Screen’ or ‘Wireless Display.’
- Choose your Roku model from the list of available devices.
- Launch the Kodi App on your Android device to start casting media to your Roku.
It’s possible that some TV shows or movies are restricted due to copyright laws or other restrictions. The screen mirroring feature may not offer the same level of functionality as using a supported device.
Using a Laptop
Alternatively, you can use your laptop or computer to watch Kodi content on a compatible Roku device. The steps are a bit different depending if you have a Windows or Mac laptop, but the process is simple overall.
Use the following instructions based on your device:
For Windows:
- Power on your Roku device and click the Home Button using the Roku Remote.
- Navigate to ‘Settings’ and select ‘System Updates.’ Ensure you have the latest software update.
- From ‘Settings,’ navigate to ‘Screen Mirroring.’
- Choose ‘Enable Screen Mirroring’ and click ‘OK’ to confirm your choices.
- Connect your Windows PC to the same WiFi network as your Roku device.
- Now, click the Windows Key + P to launch the Connect App on your laptop.
- Once your Roku model appears in the list of nearby devices, select it to start a screen mirroring session.
- Launch Kodi on your Windows laptop to start streaming media.
For Mac:
- Power on your Roku device and click the Home Button using the Roku Remote.
- Navigate to ‘Settings’ and select ‘System Updates.’ Ensure you have the latest software update.
- From ‘Settings,’ navigate to ‘Screen Mirroring.’
- Choose ‘Enable Screen Mirroring’ and click ‘OK’ to confirm your choices.
- Connect your Mac to the same WiFi network as your Roku device.
- Press the Apple Icon near the top left of the screen and click ‘System Preference.’
- Next, select ‘Displays.’
- Click on ‘AirPlay Display’ or ‘Display Listed,’ depending on your model.
- Select your Roku model from the list of available devices to start screen mirroring.
- Launch the Kodi App on your Mac to enjoy content on your Roku Player.
It’s essential to note that some of the features may not be available when streaming Kodi to a Roku Player. Some television shows, movies, and live TV channels may not also be available.
What About Jailbreaking?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to jailbreak a Roku Player. Roku devices use a closed operating system known as Roku OS. Unlike other platforms, like Android, Roku does not allow users to modify the system, sideload unauthorized apps, or bypass restrictions. This means “jailbreaking” a Roku in the traditional sense is not feasible.
That said, users can enable “Developer Mode” to add unofficial or private channels to their Roku devices.
Develop Mode uses the device’s IP address to sideload unofficial channels. Be aware, however, that doing so can violate Roku’s terms of service and expose you to security risks and legal troubles. Unauthorized modifications can void warranties, compromise security, and lead to other consequences.
It is recommended to use your Roku device as intended and follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer for the best results. Of course, we have guides on using Kodi on FireStick, and also how to update Kodi on FireStick, so, if you really want to use Kodi, considering adding one of Amazon's simple streaming sticks (on Amazon) to your arsenal.
Does My Roku Device Support Screen Mirroring?
Nearly all current-generation Roku Players and Roku TV variants provide screen mirroring features. To determine your Roku model, navigate to Settings > System > About. Here are a few exceptions to keep in mind:
- Roku Express: The 3960, 3930, and 3900 support the screen mirroring feature. The 3700 Roku Express does not support screen mirroring.
- Roku Express+: Models 3931 and 3910 support the screen mirroring functionality but not model 3710. On the 3910 Roku Express+, screen mirroring is only accessible via HDMI and not on the composite or A/V ports.
Is Kodi Free to Watch?
Yes, Kodi is a free, open-source media player software application allowing users to stream various types of content, like movies, TV shows, and live TV.
Although, not all the content in Kodi’s catalog is free to watch. Users may need to pay for specific additional features or subscribe to access premium content. Furthermore, some media may be illegal, so users should practice caution to ensure they are not violating copyright laws while using Kodi.
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