DO NOT USE totalhometv

Those using Kodi need to think seriously about their options. Streaming feeds are rapidly diminishing, and more and more of the existing feed suppliers are splashing "use a VPN" warnings. It's not going to be too long before the whole thing collapses (or becomes WAY too specialised) imho.

Kodi (formerly XBMC)

Issue is, it's a little 'home hobbyist'. Never really simple to use. Writing has been on the wall for a while, increasing instability.

When we starting selling Kodi boxes a few years ago.I was never a fan (being tasked with support ) - at the time realising is technical, certainly not suitable for all. Why did we sell ? Because people wanted cheap & that was the cheapest option.

We always advised people it was a little technical & even with instructions, it is simply not a locked down / stable solution - the compromise or real price you pay for 'free'. Problem is, most sales people don't want to tell you the facts.

We pulled the plug on supplying this equipment a little while ago. We were not happy with the level of difficulty generally for the average user, stability and also spotted the usual wave of local opportunists appearing on websites / facebook groups, with their own new TV companies. In reality individuals looking to make a quick buck. OK people need to earn money, but at least know what you are doing.

Problem is as Kodi is such an unreliable pain in the backside half the time, unless you are prepared to call it a hobby, many need a lot of support from their supplier - who fact is, can't do much if streams are unstable or apps go down as has ZERO control over anything. So any promises made about content cannot be guaranteed either. These individuals or companies usually give up & eventually disappear when the burden of complaints or need for service gets too great.

You can only do so cheap, before there is simply a poor or non existent service.

Hosted based service is different - can use better hardware which is nothing like Kodi. One singular software solution, integrated, simple. Can also supply services to Android / Apple platforms in application - though native MAG box more pleasant, familar usage territory, much like UK Sky box, with the catch up and on demand services too.

Excellent post and most informative.

Just to qualify my original post, I recognise the need for updating though I did not have the time or inclination to find out myself how to do this. Historically I paid 20 euros per box for the update so was somewhat shocked at the 60 euros being quoted to update a single box.

My post was more aimed at the ridiculous rate of inflation and the reaction to my surprise at said increase.

However there is one positive point I can make. It motivated me to learn how to do this myself and there are a myriad of instructional videos all over the net.

I agree, kodi is not the best platform and will be changing to a more suitable alternative, I think iota is the way to go.

Though when I do make the change it will be with a more honest (and polite) supplier!