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If Kodi 20 “Nexus” on an Android 11-or-later device can’t see media on a USB drive, grant Kodi the Files and media permission and set it to Allow all the time. Team Kodi published this instruction specifically for USB storage on Android 11 and later; it is not a universal fix for every missing file or content source.
Give Kodi permission to access USB storage
Team Kodi’s December 20, 2022 instructions for Kodi 20 Nexus RC 2 specify this Android settings path:
- Open Settings on your Android device.
- Tap Apps, then select Kodi.
- Open Permissions and select Files and media.
- Choose Allow all the time.
The menu names may differ on some manufacturers’ Android devices or TV interfaces. If you don’t see the exact path, open Kodi’s app information in Android Settings and look for its storage or files-and-media permission. The official instruction is documented in Team Kodi’s Kodi “Nexus” RC 2 announcement.
What this permission does—and does not do
This change addresses Kodi’s access to media on locally attached USB storage. It does not establish that every missing-media problem is caused by permissions, or guarantee access to every storage location. If the drive is still missing afterward, the cause may be unrelated, such as a library entry or file path that needs attention.
#1 Best Overall
- 4K UHD Resolution & Audio Support: Xiaomi 4K UHD resolution supports 4K content, while HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support is available for compatible content. The TV also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio formats
- Powerful 6nm Platform Performance: Powered by a 64-bit 6nm high-performance platform, featuring a quad-core A55 CPU (up to 2.5 GHz) and large memory (2 GB + 32 GB), it ensures smooth operation
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It also does not unlock another app’s private files. Android’s documentation on managing all files on a storage device says that even apps granted the broad MANAGE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE permission cannot access other apps’ app-specific directories under Android/data. A USB media permission is not a way around that restriction.
Do you need to back up Kodi first?
Changing this Android permission is a settings adjustment; Team Kodi does not say a backup is needed just to make it. If you are separately installing or upgrading Kodi and have data you cannot afford to lose, Team Kodi advises backing up the userdata folder beforehand, particularly before a major-version upgrade. See its Kodi 20.4 Nexus release announcement for that general caution.
Rank #2
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
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- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
Kodi is a free, open-source media player for local and network media, and this fix is a permission change—not a recommendation to buy a drive, device, or utility. Kodi’s Android download page is available for installation information; a past Kodi 20 listing should not be taken as a statement of the current release.
Quick Recap
Best Value
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Rank #4
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- 【Stable WiFi 6 & Bluetooth 5.0 Technology】 Built-in upgraded WiFi 6 module greatly improves network speed and anti-interference ability for this box for tv. Combined with Bluetooth 5.0 technology, this modern tv box android 2026 realizes fast wireless pairing with audio devices and game controllers.
- 【Complete Accessories & User-Friendly Operation】 This compact smart box for tv is fully equipped with essential accessories: TV box，remote control, high-definition HDMI cable, power adapter and detailed user manual. Simple plug-and-play design makes this Android TV box easy to install, and reliable customer support guarantees your satisfying using experience.
Rank #3
- Android 14.0 and RK3518 Chipset:MORTAL X5S equipped the latest Android 14 operating system and the quad-core RK3518 chip ensure smooth operation of the TV
- 2GB RAM 16GB ROM: With 2GB of RAM and 16GB of ROM, this device is capable of meeting users’ daily needs, In addition, Android tv box features a TF card slot that allows users to expand storage capacity up to 128GB
- 8K Video Decoding: Supports decoding and playback of the vast majority of audio and video formats. You can enjoy stunning 8K HD video, which offers even sharper picture quality than 4K, delivering a more lifelike viewing experience
- 2.4/5.8 GHz Wi-Fi 6: Android TV box features built-in 2.4 GHz/5.8 GHz Wi-Fi 6 and supports RJ-45 10/100 Mbps Ethernet LAN, ensuring a stable network connection and smooth audio playback
- Multiple Connection Options: Bluetooth 5.4 technology and the TV box’s two built-in USB ports let you easily connect your phone, speakers, keyboard, and other peripherals
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