More collecting.
Less figuring things out.

The bundle includes the full Android app, Windows desktop app, Collection Data Service, setup instructions and this support page. Organize collections with images, custom fields, categories, favorites and ratings, with media-specific features where supported.

The full Android edition also enables Remote storage and Kodi. The trial already includes local collection features, metadata lookup and backup import/export.

1. Download your full-edition APK using the link supplied with your purchase.
2. Open it on a device running Android 8.0 or later.
3. If Android asks, allow your chosen browser or file manager to install this trusted APK, then complete installation.
4. Open CollectHive and choose Local storage for a library on your device, or Remote storage for a Collection Data Service.

You can turn off the install permission afterwards. Barcode scanning needs Google Play services.

Extract the complete Windows package to a writable folder owned by your user. Open Windows → Start Collections.cmd. Keep the App and Service folders together. The package targets 64-bit Windows PCs and includes the .NET runtimes.

The launcher reuses an existing local service on port 5080, or starts one for the desktop session. Its temporary service closes when that desktop session ends. For an always-on service, follow the optional service setup in START-HERE.txt.

The Windows executables are unsigned in this release. Confirm the download source and checksum if Windows shows an unknown-publisher warning. Do not disable your security protections.

Embedded web windows require Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime. If it is missing, install the Evergreen Runtime from Microsoft’s official WebView2 page, then reopen CollectHive. An internet connection and, for some providers, a provider account are also needed.

Android Local storage keeps a separate database on your device. Saved items can be viewed and edited without a Collection Data Service. Online lookup still needs internet access.

Remote storage uses a Collection Data Service running on a Windows PC. Windows and Android can share that same library over a trusted private network. Switching modes does not merge or automatically transfer databases.

The Windows desktop app uses the service even when the service runs on the same computer.

1. Set up the Collection Data Service on your Windows PC using the package instructions. Enable private-LAN access if another device will connect.
2. Connect the PC and Android device to the same trusted private network.
3. In Android’s Collection Data Service settings, select Remote storage and enter the PC’s LAN hostname or IP address and service port (5080 by default).
4. Point the Windows app at that same service.

The PC must be on and the service running. localhost on your phone means the phone itself, so use the PC’s LAN address.

The service has no authentication. Never expose it to the public internet or forward its port through your router.

Check that the PC is awake, the service is running, and the hostname/IP and port are correct. Confirm the Windows network is Private and the service’s private-network firewall rule is enabled. Guest Wi-Fi and device isolation can block access even when internet browsing works.

Previously cached remote content can remain available offline; writes that require the service need a working connection. Avoid clearing the app’s data or reinstalling to troubleshoot connectivity.

This bundle does not include hosted cloud sync. Android Local storage is in the app’s private data. The Windows service stores its library in %LOCALAPPDATA%\Collections by default, or the data folder selected during service setup.

Metadata lookups contact external providers; Kodi integration contacts your configured database or players. Android’s backup behavior can also depend on your device’s backup settings.

Use the app’s database backup/export function and save the ZIP somewhere separate from the device. Windows and Android Local storage support compatible portable backups with collection definitions, items, episodes and images.

Keep the original backup when moving devices. Open the destination’s import screen and check carefully which database will be replaced before proceeding.

A database import replaces the current destination database. It is not a merge. Export a fresh backup of the destination first.

An in-place update signed with the same key preserves the app’s data. Install the new APK over the existing app; do not uninstall or clear storage first.

If Android reports a signature conflict, the installed app and new APK may use different signing keys. Earlier debug-signed test/trial versions cannot update directly to the release-signed APK. Keep the installed app, export and retain your collection backup, and request migration guidance before removing anything. A collection backup does not necessarily include preferences or provider sign-ins.

Close the portable CollectHive session, extract the new package to a new folder, and start it there. Keep your existing collection data directory and settings.

An installed Windows service needs a separate service upgrade. The package’s first-install script deliberately refuses to overwrite an existing service or installation directory. Ask support for upgrade instructions and keep a current backup.

First check the selected collection, search text and filters. On Android, confirm Local or Remote storage is the mode you were using. In Remote storage, check that the service address still points at the correct PC and library.

Do not import another backup, clear app data or uninstall while investigating. Record what changed and the active storage mode before contacting support.

Provider coverage varies by collection type and edition. Check the title, issue number or barcode, your internet connection, and any required provider sign-in. Try a more specific search or enter the missing details manually.

Your chosen title and comic issue number should remain under your control. Review imported metadata and artwork before saving.

The full edition can import a compatible Kodi MySQL library through the Collection Data Service and send supported media to configured Kodi players. Configure the database and players in Kodi settings; the players must be reachable and able to open the stored media location.

On Android, Kodi library import requires Remote storage. Kodi software, media files, database access and player configuration are supplied separately.

CollectHive checks new items for duplicates to help prevent repeated entries. Search the relevant collection and review existing titles and issue numbers. Edit the existing item if you intended to add details to it.

Use the order-support channel from the store where you bought CollectHive, or visit the CollectHive product page. Keep your order reference available. Purchase terms and download delivery depend on the seller’s listing.