Android Deep Links in Kodi 22 RC1, WebOS Audio Boosts, but Linux Menu Glitches Loom

The Kodi development team has released version 22 RC1, introducing significant platform-specific features while exposing new visual defects on Linux systems. According to Neowin, this release candidate allows Android applications to launch Kodi directly to specific streams, enhancing user navigation. Simultaneously, the update adds PulseAudio integration for webOS devices, aiming to improve audio performance on LG smart televisions.

What new features does Kodi 22 RC1 introduce?

Kodi 22 RC1 focuses on platform-specific improvements rather than universal core changes. The most notable addition is support for Android deep links, which permits external apps to open Kodi and navigate directly to specific media streams or content. This feature streamlines the user experience on mobile operating systems by reducing manual navigation steps within the media center interface.

Additionally, the release integrates PulseAudio support for webOS. This change targets LG smart TVs running the webOS platform, providing better audio management and compatibility. These updates aim to modernize Kodi’s integration with contemporary operating systems, addressing long-standing requests for deeper app interoperability on Android and improved audio handling on webOS.

Are there known issues with this release?

Yes, Linux users have reported significant visual defects in Kodi 22 RC1. According to Neowin, the update causes washed-out menu colors on Linux distributions, making interface elements difficult to read. This regression affects the usability of the media center on desktop Linux environments. The issue appears specific to the Linux build of this release candidate, indicating a rendering problem that has not yet been resolved in this version.

What is the recommended approach for updating?

Security operations teams and users are advised to exercise caution before installing this release candidate. Neowin explicitly recommends creating a full system backup before applying the update. This precaution protects user data and configuration files in case the installation fails or introduces stability issues. Release candidates are pre-release software intended for testing, so they may contain unresolved bugs or regressions that affect system stability.

What does this mean for organizational risk?

For organizations deploying Kodi in managed environments, this update presents mixed implications. While the Android and webOS features offer functional improvements, the Linux rendering bug poses a usability risk. Deploying untested release candidates in production environments can lead to service disruptions. Teams should prioritize stability over new features, waiting for a stable release before widespread deployment. Monitoring user feedback and vendor patches is essential to mitigate potential operational impacts.

What to do and how to stay safe: Kodi

• Create a full backup of Kodi configurations and media libraries before testing any new software versions.
• Monitor official vendor channels for stable release announcements before deploying updates to production environments.
• Test new software versions in isolated environments to identify rendering or compatibility issues.
• Review platform-specific changelogs to understand potential impacts on supported operating systems.

Step-by-step guide: Browser Security Settings for Small Business Teams

General security guidance from the TechSec Feed newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

Does Kodi 22 RC1 fix the Linux HDR menu issue?

No, the release introduces washed-out menu colors on Linux, which is a known issue in this version.

Can Android apps now open specific streams in Kodi?

Yes, Kodi 22 RC1 adds support for Android deep links, allowing direct navigation to specific streams.

Is PulseAudio support available for webOS in this update?

Yes, the update includes PulseAudio integration for webOS devices to improve audio handling.