Essential Tools for Kodi Add-on Development

Developing Kodi add-ons becomes easier with the right tools. Below is a list of software, IDEs, and frameworks that will assist you in creating efficient and feature-rich Kodi add-ons.

Table of Contents

• 1. Text Editors
  • Sublime Text 3
  • Notepad++
• 2. Python Integrated Development Environments (IDEs)
  • PyCharm
• 3. Auto-Completion Add-ons
  • Kodistubs
• 4. Frameworks for Kodi Add-on Development
  • KodiSwift
  • PyXBMCt
• Related Resources

1. Text Editors

Sublime Text 3

Description: Sublime Text is a fast, sophisticated text editor that supports many programming languages. It features a minimalistic user interface with dark mode and customizable themes. The “Goto Anything” function allows for quick navigation, making it ideal for large-scale projects.

• Notable Features:
  • Multi-platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux)
  • Plugin support through an API
  • Multiple cursors for faster editing

Download Link: Sublime Text 3

Notepad++

Description: Notepad++ is a free, open-source text editor for Windows. It supports many programming languages and is known for its simplicity and performance. It is especially useful for quick edits due to its lightweight nature.

• Notable Features:
  • Tabbed interface for multitasking
  • Syntax highlighting for numerous languages
  • Macro recording for repetitive tasks

Download Link: Notepad++

2. Python Integrated Development Environments (IDEs)

PyCharm

Description: PyCharm is a highly capable Python IDE that offers a wide array of features, including code completion, error detection, and integrated version control. PyCharm is compatible with various frameworks and is useful for both beginners and experienced developers.

• Notable Features:
  • Intelligent code analysis and suggestions
  • Integration with Git and other version control systems
  • Supports remote development environments

Download Link: PyCharm

3. Auto-Completion Add-ons

Kodistubs

Description: Kodistubs are Python module stubs for Kodi that help mimic Kodi’s API. These stubs provide auto-completion, making coding smoother and helping prevent syntax errors in real-time.

• Notable Features:
  • Provides code hints and documentation within your IDE
  • Improves productivity by reducing errors
  • Easily integrates with popular Python IDEs

Download Link: Kodistubs

4. Frameworks for Kodi Add-on Development

KodiSwift

Description: KodiSwift is a lightweight framework that simplifies the creation of Kodi add-ons. A fork of xbmcswift2, it has been updated to be compatible with newer Kodi APIs. This framework is suitable for both new and experienced developers.

• Notable Features:
  • Simplifies routing and menu creation
  • Updated for the latest Kodi APIs
  • Ideal for all skill levels

Download Link: KodiSwift

Tutorial: KodiSwift Tutorial (Tutorial may be outdated)

PyXBMCt

Description: PyXBMCt is a Python framework that helps build Kodi addon UIs. Inspired by PyQt, it features widgets, layout managers, and event handlers, making it easy to create simple yet functional Kodi UIs. PyXBMCt ensures a consistent appearance by using Kodi’s Confluence skin textures.

• Notable Features:
  • Offers a range of pre-built widgets for UI elements
  • Supports layout management and event handling
  • Consistent look across different Kodi skins

Download Link: PyXBMCt

Related Resources

About Kodi Add-ons: A comprehensive guide on Kodi add-on structure, functionality, and best practices for development.