Preparing for the Installation
Enabling the Unknown Sources Option
The initial step involves enabling “Unknown sources” within Kodi’s settings. This is essential because Kodi, by default, restricts installations from sources outside its official repository.
Start by opening Kodi on your device. Navigate to the settings menu, which is typically represented by a gear icon in the top-left corner or sometimes in the bottom of the screen. Depending on the skin you are using, it may appear elsewhere. Select “System Settings” or simply “System”. Within System Settings, you will find an option titled “Add-ons.” Click on it. Now, locate the “Unknown sources” option and toggle the switch to the “On” position. A warning message might appear, explaining the potential risks of installing add-ons from unknown sources. Read the warning carefully and proceed by clicking “Yes” if you are comfortable. This is a necessary step to allow you to install builds such as Xenon.
Adding the Source for Xenon Build
The next step is to add the source containing the necessary repository for Xenon Build. This is akin to adding a library from which you can access the build installer.
Go back to the Kodi home screen and navigate to the settings menu again. From there, select “File manager”. This is where you will add the source for the build. Within the file manager, double-click on “Add source”. In the dialogue box that appears, you’ll see a field labeled “Enter the paths or browse for the media locations.” Within this field, you’ll need to input the exact URL where the Xenon Build repository is hosted. Be sure to provide the precise URL, as any minor error will prevent the process from working correctly. (Make sure to replace this with a valid repository URL).
Next, in the same window, provide a name for this source in the “Enter a name for this media source” field. Give it a name that’s easy to remember, such as “xenon-repo” or something similar. Once you have entered both the URL and the name, click “OK.”
Installing the Repository
Now that the source has been added, you need to install the repository itself. This step is crucial as it provides the platform for installing Xenon Build.
Return to the Kodi home screen. Select “Add-ons” from the main menu. This is where you manage and install all Kodi add-ons and builds. Now, within the “Add-ons” menu, click on the “Package installer” icon, which looks like an open box or a folder icon. This icon will take you to the add-on installation options. Select “Install from zip file”. A file browser will appear. Navigate to the source you added in the previous step (e.g., “xenon-repo”). You should see the repository listed. Select the ZIP file for the repository. The exact name of the ZIP file might vary depending on the repository’s structure, but it will be easily identifiable. Wait for the “Add-on enabled” notification. This indicates that the repository has been successfully installed.
Initiating the Installation Process
Installing Xenon Build Itself
With the repository installed, the next step involves installing the Xenon Build installer.
From the Kodi home screen, select “Add-ons.” Click on the “Package installer” icon. Select “Install from repository”. From the list of repositories, find and select the repository you installed in the previous step (e.g., “Xenon Repo”). Navigate to “Program add-ons”. You should see the “Xenon Build Installer” (or a similar name). Select the installer and click “Install”. The build installer itself will download and install.
Once installed, follow the prompts to choose the specific version of the Xenon Build you want to install. You might have several options for the version, with different add-ons and features. Select your preferred version and follow any additional on-screen instructions. The Xenon Build installation will then begin. This process may take a while, depending on your internet speed and the size of the build. Be patient and let it complete.
Restarting Kodi
After the installation completes, Kodi will either automatically restart or prompt you to do so. If it doesn’t restart automatically, manually restart Kodi to ensure the changes take effect. Simply close Kodi completely and reopen it.
Navigating the Installed Xenon Build
Customizing Xenon Build to Your Preferences
One of the benefits of using a Kodi build is the ability to customize it. Within Xenon Build, you’ll likely be able to customize the skin or interface. If you do not like the default skin, go to the skin settings to change it. You may also adjust video settings such as picture quality. Different builds will have different options here. Many builds allow you to configure various add-ons by modifying settings for things like streaming quality.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Legal Considerations and Ethical Streaming
It is very important to remember to only stream content that you have the legal right to access. Streaming copyrighted material without permission is illegal. Xenon Build primarily provides an environment and access to add-ons. The legality of the content available through those add-ons depends on their source and the user’s rights.
Once again, the use of a VPN is strongly recommended not only for privacy but for accessing specific content.
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to use Kodi builds?
Using Kodi itself is legal. However, the legality of streaming content through Kodi depends on the source of the content and the user’s rights. Streaming copyrighted content without permission is illegal.
What are the best add-ons for Xenon Build?
The best add-ons will depend on your personal preferences. Xenon Build often comes pre-loaded with popular add-ons. Experiment with the pre-installed options to discover what you like. You can also research add-ons from the internet and add them if you want.
How to uninstall Xenon Build?
Uninstalling a build typically involves removing the build’s associated add-ons and resetting Kodi to its default settings. You can often do this through the build’s installer or through a Kodi reset.
My Xenon build is not working properly, what should I do?
Troubleshoot the issue by checking the add-ons, checking the internet connection, and consider clearing cache, or a full reinstall. Consulting online Kodi forums can often help as well.