2017-08-07, 15:59
There's always been trouble and instability with those services, they simply weren't built for the mass of traffic that Kodi attracted. Basically, either the API's the add-on uses get closed due to too many requests, or they possibly even might get blacklisted. So either the author has to get a new key every time, or he has to intervene with the staff (I don't really know exactly). There are frequent blackouts, server downtime, API crashes, and I believe this will not change in the near future.
I've been using the API keys for a long time, they do seem to add more stability to the system overall. Basically, if there's a free API to be had, take the time and register, it will do you good in the long run, especially for important stuff like artwork, info, or YouTube. Of course, none of it will protect you from, say, server crashes, but it will shield you from these Kodi-specific issues.
As for AD specifically, I've started to use Artwork Beef recently, and was able to completely replace Artwork Downloader. So far, I've been enjoying it, it does seem a bit more stable and less intrusive than AD. It is a hassle to remove it and its artwork and replace it all with Artwork Beef, though.
I've been using the API keys for a long time, they do seem to add more stability to the system overall. Basically, if there's a free API to be had, take the time and register, it will do you good in the long run, especially for important stuff like artwork, info, or YouTube. Of course, none of it will protect you from, say, server crashes, but it will shield you from these Kodi-specific issues.
As for AD specifically, I've started to use Artwork Beef recently, and was able to completely replace Artwork Downloader. So far, I've been enjoying it, it does seem a bit more stable and less intrusive than AD. It is a hassle to remove it and its artwork and replace it all with Artwork Beef, though.