Kodi
Kodi Foundation
Kodi (formerly XBMC) is a free and open-source media player and entertainment hub for digital media. It allows users to play and view most videos, music, podcasts, and other digital media files from local and network storage media and the internet. Kodi features a 10-foot user interface for use with televisions and remote controls and is available across multiple platforms including macOS.
User Sentiments
Top Likes
- Versatile media player supporting various formats
- Customizable interface with skins
- Extensible functionality through add-ons
- Free and open source
Top Dislikes
- Initial setup can be complex for some users
- Menu system can be unwieldy
- Performance can be slow when loading files or add-ons
Popular Comments
MacUpdate User - ValueTech
2025-01-20
Kodi is an excellent media center, especially considering it's free and open source. It supports a wide variety of media formats and has tons of customization options.
G2 - Verified User
2023-09-22
Very useful and versatile using the video addons. The number of integrated features.
G2 - Demacrcus D.
2022-07-21
Kodi is easy to setup but addons…
Reddit User - CentipedeStar
2022-10-28
That's how it works, that's normal. You're not really supposed to use the mouse.
MacRumors Forum User - raman3366
2014-10-10
Fantastic App. App is really fantastic for those who use xbmc media centre.
Softonic User
2025-01-21
Kodi is suitable for everything from watching Movies to streaming live TV and listening to Music. Everything is extremely well presented and Kodi is clearly inspired by Apple TV in the way it looks and feels.
Detailed Review
Kodi is a highly popular, free, and open-source media player application available for macOS and other operating systems. It serves as a comprehensive entertainment hub, allowing users to manage and play a wide array of digital media, including videos, music, podcasts, and images, from both local and online sources. Originally named XBMC (Xbox Media Center), Kodi has evolved into a versatile platform that caters to home theater enthusiasts and general users alike. Its 10-foot user interface is designed for comfortable navigation from a distance, making it ideal for use with TVs and remote controls. While Kodi itself is a media player, its functionality is significantly expanded through the use of add-ons, which can provide access to streaming services, online content, and various tools.
Standout Features
- Media Management: Organizes and catalogs your media library with artwork, descriptions, and metadata fetched from the internet.
- Versatile Playback: Supports a wide range of audio, video, and image formats.
- Add-ons: Extensive library of add-ons to extend functionality, including streaming services, utilities, and customization options.
- Customizable Interface: Highly skinnable interface, allowing users to change the look and feel of Kodi.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Available on macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, and more.
- Remote Control Support: Designed for use with remote controls, enhancing the home theater experience.
Conclusion
Kodi is a powerful and flexible media center application for Mac users who want a centralized platform for their entertainment needs. Its open-source nature, combined with a vast ecosystem of add-ons, provides extensive customization and functionality beyond a typical media player. While the initial setup and navigation might require a bit of learning, especially for new users, the benefits of having a unified media hub are considerable. Kodi is particularly well-suited for users who have a large local media library or who want to stream content from various online sources, offering a robust and free solution for managing and enjoying digital entertainment on macOS.
