Kodi 22 “Piers” is here in Beta, bringing a refreshed interface and better 4K playback performance, while Kodi 21 “Omega” remains the current stable release. This guide covers both options for the Google TV Streamer — the simple Play Store install (stable Omega) and the sideload method that gets you the newest Kodi 22 beta straight from the official Kodi download page.

Before You Start

  • Your Google TV Streamer connected to Wi-Fi and signed into a Google account
  • About 10 minutes
  • A VPN is optional but strongly recommended if you plan to stream third-party add-ons — see our note below

Method 1: Install Kodi from the Play Store (Easiest)

This is the fastest way to get Kodi running, but it currently installs the stable Kodi 21 “Omega” release only — the Play Store does not yet carry the Kodi 22 beta. If you want Kodi 22 specifically, skip to Method 2 below.

  1. From the Google TV Streamer home screen, open the Google Play Store app.
  2. Use the search icon and type Kodi.
  3. Select the official Kodi app (published by the XBMC Foundation) and choose Install.
  4. Once installed, open Kodi from your apps row and complete the on-screen welcome setup.

Method 2: Sideload Kodi 22 Beta (Newest Version)

To get Kodi 22 “Piers” specifically, you’ll sideload the APK using the free Downloader app. It’s a three-step process.

Step 1: Turn On Developer Options

  1. Go to Settings (gear icon) > System > About.
  2. Scroll down to Android TV OS build and click it 7 times until you see “You are now a developer!”
  3. Go back to System and open the new Developer options menu, then turn on Unknown sources (or “Install unknown apps”) for the Downloader app once it’s installed.

Step 2: Install the Downloader App

  1. Open the Play Store and search for Downloader (by AFTVnews).
  2. Install and open it, then allow any permissions it requests.

Step 3: Download and Install Kodi 22

  1. In the Downloader app, enter this address: kodi.tv/download
  2. On the site, select Android, then look under the Prerelease section for Kodi 22 “Piers” and choose the ARM build (this is the correct architecture for the Google TV Streamer).
  3. When the APK finishes downloading, select Install when prompted.
  4. Once installed, open Kodi from your apps row.

Prefer the stable release instead? Choose Kodi 21 “Omega” from the main downloads section of the same official Kodi download page rather than the Prerelease section — the install steps are identical.

First-Time Setup

When Kodi opens for the first time, head to Settings > Add-ons to browse the official add-on repository, or connect your own media sources under Settings > Media > Library. Keep in mind that some third-party add-ons stream from unofficial sources, which is where a VPN comes in.

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Why We Recommend a VPN With Kodi

A VPN encrypts your connection so your internet provider can’t see what you’re streaming, and it can also help mask your IP address from the services you connect to. It’s a smart habit for any streaming box, not just for Kodi.

More Kodi 22 Install Guides

Not sure the Google TV Streamer is the right box for you? Check out our full Google TV Streamer Buying Guide for a breakdown of specs, pricing, and how it compares to other streaming devices.

FAQ

Is Kodi free on the Google TV Streamer?

Yes. Kodi is completely free and open-source, whether you install it from the Play Store or sideload it from the official Kodi download page.

Is sideloading Kodi 22 safe on Google TV Streamer?

Yes, as long as you download the APK directly from the official kodi.tv site as shown above. Avoid third-party APK sites, which can bundle modified or unsafe files.

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