Applications offering real-time television access via the Kodi media center platform enable users to stream broadcast content directly to their devices. These applications, often referred to as add-ons, provide access to various channels, including news, sports, and entertainment, mirroring the functionality of traditional cable or satellite television services within the Kodi environment. An example is an add-on that aggregates publicly available IPTV streams, presenting them within a structured and navigable interface for Kodi users.
The value of these applications lies in their ability to consolidate numerous streaming sources into a single, easily accessible platform. This eliminates the need to switch between different websites or applications to access desired content. Historically, the development and usage of these applications have been driven by a desire for media access independent of traditional distribution channels and associated costs.