KODI Controversy
What's a KODI you ask?
KODI is a term that describes an open source streaming software platform that is becoming not only highly popular, but also controversial.
Basically KODI is a platform that can stream all of your digital Audio and Video programs in a single place. However, its reputation is becoming more and more utilized for illegal activity such as pirating content as it allows you to gain access to pay TV as well as even First Run movies and Music not yet for sale outside the theaters or other media outlets.
Simply, Kodi is really only a free, open source software that can be utilized as a centralized media centre, which allows you store all of your digital content in a single location, as it also allows you to access it any capable device. There is yet another bonus being: the cost. The Kodi software itself is completely free to download and use, perfect for those tired of forking out large monthly fees for subscription based services only sold in packages and with programs they don’t make full use of... but have to pay for anyway.
Is Kodi Legal?
Although Kodi’s name is regularly reported in media releases on illegally-streamed content, the actual Kodi software itself is not illegal to use. However, the Kodi software can be programed in such a way as to perform illegal activities, such as streaming live broadcasts, copyright protected sports, or pirate copies of first run Hollywood films pay TV series, but without the paying part.
Kodi is a unique and special media player, with versatility and open source construct which have made on of the more popular platforms. One reason for this is that it actually supports almost all audio and video file formats... no more obsolete content and all accessible in a single location.
So what is illegal?
Well Kodi is not, so owning it is not... it is really as easy as buying a "Legal" Amazon Fire Stick (as example), looking on YouTube for instructions on how to download the "Legal" Kodi software and then set it up to allow certain Plugins to run.
The UK Government are cracking down on specific Kodi enebled boxes, as well as Amazon and eBay, which have blocked sales of ‘so-called Kodi boxes’ and similar devices,. But here is the kicker, Amazon still sells a Fire Stick that can be loaded with Kodi for free. The Stick cost only $40.00 USD and the Kodi can be downloaded, installed and utilized for free. In fact Amazon sells many books on how to do it...
And Apple has blocked a "Native Kodi" app from it's App Store due to concerns over its use of third-party plug ins so if you want to access Kodi on your iPhone or iPad you will need need to jailbreak your device first.
So as Kodi itself does nothing wrong, it still remains remains very controversial, with growing popularity, it is highly likely the controversy will continue.
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Image Credit: pcadvisor, futurecdn