Today, I am going to provide you a quick tutorial on how to install OSMC and Kodi on Raspberry Pi device. You can use this guide for both your Raspberry Pi 3 and Raspberry Pi 2 boards. Though I have not tested this method on the older Pi models, you can experiment if you still love the ancient Raspberry Pi versions.
What are OSMC and Kodi?
As mentioned, OSMC (Open Source Media Center) is a newer version of Raspbmc which is based on Debian Linux Distribution. Though the primary task of OSMC is to run Kodi on Raspberry Pi, it can do a lot of other things too. You can use this Linux OS on other platforms like Windows, and Mac OS X. OSMC surely brings some variety to use the Kodi on different types of devices.
On the other hand, Kodi (formerly XBMC) is a type of media center which was initially meant for Xbox gaming consoles only. But, due to its expansive features and popularity, soon it started being used by many other platforms. And it supports the Raspberry Pi too! Whoa! Today, Kodi is the most used media center platform across the devices in the world.
Why should you install OSMC and Kodi on Raspberry Pi?
Do you love the ‘Game of Thrones’ series? Do you want to create a Raspberry Pi media center? If the answer is ‘Yes’ for the questions, then you may have to use OSMC which is the successor of Raspbmc and Kodi on your Raspberry Pi 3 / Pi 2 device.
How to install OSMC on Raspberry Pi?
Let’s take a look at the things you will need to finish this process;
- Raspberry Pi 3/ Pi 2 / Pi 1
- A Pi compatible micro SD card (8GB recommended)
- Raspberry Pi power supply
- Latest OSMC image
- An HDMI/Mini HDMI cable
- USB WiFi adapter & a reliable internet connection
- USB Keyboard
- A sturdy case to protect your Pi set up (optional)
After gathering all the needed accessories and tools, start installing the OSMC & Kodi on your beloved Pi model.
Step-1: Assemble all the components with your Raspberry Pi
Step-2: Boot up your Pi and connect it to the web using the wireless adapter
Step-3: Now, download the latest OSMC software image
Step-4: Attach the NOOBS preloaded Micro SD Card to the system
Step-5: Install the Raspbian OS on your Pi using NOOBS if you have not done it yet
Step-6: Now, run the downloaded image file of OSMC application
Step-7: You will see two drop-down menus to select the language & to choose the device you want to install the OSMC on. Look for the language you want to work with and choose it & select your device, i.e., Raspberry Pi 3 / Raspberry Pi 2 / Raspberry Pi 1 or any relevant Pi model of yours
Step-8: Click on “Next” arrow
Step-9: Now, it’s time to choose the version of the software you want to install (I recommend selecting the latest version)
Step-10: Uncheck the box of “Use a local build on my computer” if it is marked
Step-11: Again, click on “Next” arrow
Step-12: From the list of devices shown on the screen, select the button ahead of ‘on an SD card’ and click “Next.”
Step-13: When the process is done, your SD card will unmount automatically from the system. Take it and attach it to your Raspberry Pi device
Step-14: Reboot your Raspberry Pi and installation of some files will start
Step-15: After the files are installed, your Pi will reboot again OSMC will load
Step-16: In the OSMC window, follow the instructions and customize the configuration in the way you want
Step-17: Enjoy the OSMC / Kodi on your system
Ok, so you have installed the OSMC and Kodi on your Raspberry Pi device. Enjoy using this media center and live the world.
Are Kodi and OSMC related to each other?
Yes, both the applications are connected closely. The Raspbian supported OSMC platform helps you to mount the Kodi on your Raspberry Pi quickly without doing a separate installation.
I hope this guide on installing Kodi and OSMC on your Raspberry Pi 3 or Pi 2 device helped you. Let the world know your innovative ideas and how well you are using the Raspberry Pi media center. Take part in the comment section below & spread your thoughts.
