FOD (Fuji TV On Demand) supports official in-app downloads on eligible mobile devices, but not local FOD video files on a laptop. For a FOD download, use the mobile app for in-app viewing or a desktop workflow for supported local files on Windows or macOS.
The laptop limitation can be frustrating when you want episodes for a commute or a larger screen. In my view, the practical choice comes down to where you want the video to play: inside the FOD app or as a local desktop file.
This guide covers the official mobile method and the desktop workflow, then explains how screen recording and browser extensions differ from downloading a video file.
The FOD App Supports Mobile and Tablet Downloads
If you are using a smartphone or tablet, saving eligible content is straightforward. According to the official FOD Help Center, the platform offers a built-in download feature for supported iOS and Android devices.
FOD (Fuji TV On Demand) is a Japan-based service intended for use in Japan. As of October 2026, FOD SHORT is a separate vertical-drama service available in 13 overseas countries and regions, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The FOD download rules in this guide apply to the Japan-based FOD service, not FOD SHORT.
Here is how you do it:
- Open the FOD app and sign in with an account on the Standard Course or Point MAX Course. The Ad-Supported Light Course does not include downloads.
- Navigate to the series or movie you want to watch.
- Look for the Download icon (an arrow pointing downward) next to the episode title and tap it.
Official Limits You Need to Know
FOD app downloads and exported video files work differently, and the official mobile download feature has several limits worth checking before a trip or commute:
- In-App Playback: FOD app downloads are for viewing inside the app; they are not exported as standalone video files.
- Eligible Plans: Downloads are available with the Standard Course and Point MAX Course. The Ad-Supported Light Course does not include downloads.
- Download Count: One account can keep up to 25 downloaded titles in total, including no more than 15 movies.
- Device Limit: The download feature can be used on up to two supported mobile devices per account.
- Viewing Period: A downloaded title can normally be viewed for up to 48 hours after the download completes. If its streaming or rental availability ends sooner, the earlier deadline applies.
- Annual Limits: Some titles can be downloaded only twice per year, and renewing the viewing period counts toward that limit.
- File Formats: MP4 and MKV are video-file formats used by the desktop workflow described below; official FOD downloads remain managed inside the app.
- For Travel within Japan: Check the remaining viewing period in My List before leaving. FOD is a Japan-only service, and FOD does not officially support overseas access or login.
Screen Recording and Browser Extensions Have Limits
Browser extensions, screen recorders, and video-file downloads use different workflows. For short mobile viewing, the official FOD app is the simpler option; local MP4 or MKV files require the desktop workflow covered in the next section.
Browser extensions such as Video DownloadHelper may detect streaming requests, but protected streams may not expose a complete standalone video file. Command-line tools such as yt-dlp likewise should not be treated as equivalent to FOD's in-app download feature or a supported desktop file workflow.
OBS Studio records screen output; screen recording and downloading a video file are different workflows. Recording generally runs for the length of playback, and the result does not automatically include selectable audio tracks, subtitle files, or episode metadata. Use any local-copy workflow only with content you are authorized to access and where platform terms and applicable law permit.
KeepStreams Saves FOD Videos on Windows and macOS
For users who need local MP4 or MKV files on a Windows or macOS computer, FOD's in-app downloads are a different workflow and remain inside the mobile app. KeepStreams offers a desktop workflow to save a local copy for personal offline viewing, for content you're authorized to access, where permitted by platform terms and applicable law.
KeepStreams for FOD is a desktop tool separate from FOD's official in-app download feature. It uses a built-in browser to process supported FOD videos and save them locally.
In my view, the practical fit here is local MP4 or MKV output with batch episode selection, rather than another in-app viewing option.
Here is a quick rundown of how it works:
1. Download and install KeepStreams: Get KeepStreams for FOD from the official website. Open KeepStreams, select VIP Services, and click on the FOD icon.
Use this workflow only with an authorized FOD account and content you are authorized to access. Do not redistribute saved content. Follow applicable law and FOD's platform terms; permission depends on the title, your rights, and the specific use case.
2. Log in and analyze the video: Go to the FOD site with the built-in browser, log in, and play the video you want. Wait for KeepStreams to analyze it. If analysis does not start automatically, click the orange Download button.
3. Choose Settings: Select episodes, resolution, available audio tracks, and available subtitles in the pop-up window. MP4 and MKV are video containers, while SRT is a separate subtitle-file format.
4. Download and check progress: Click "Download Now" to start immediately or "Add to Queue" for batch selection. Open Downloads to view real-time progress, download speed, and completed video files.
The completed MP4 or MKV files can be opened from the local output folder with a compatible media player.
FAQs
Q1. Can I download FOD videos for free with KeepStreams?
The KeepStreams for FOD trial lets you save up to three full FOD videos within 30 days. It does not include a FOD subscription or access to paid titles.
Q2. Does installing the FOD Android app give me MP4 files?
No. An APK installs the Android app, while FOD app downloads remain available for playback inside that app. The desktop workflow saves supported videos as local MP4 or MKV files.
Q3. What should I do if a FOD download gets stuck?
Confirm that you are signed in and that the title plays in your FOD account, then update KeepStreams and retry. If the analysis error or crash repeats, send the error message, app version, and operating system details to KeepStreams support through the official site.
Conclusion
For mobile viewing in Japan, use the official FOD app and check the remaining viewing period before leaving. Eligible downloads can normally be viewed for up to 48 hours after completion, subject to the title's own availability. If you need supported local MP4 or MKV files on Windows or macOS, KeepStreams for FOD provides a separate desktop workflow for authorized personal offline viewing.
If you're interested in saving content from other Japanese streaming platforms, you may also find our guides on DMM video downloads and ABEMA video downloads helpful.
NOTE:
FOD™ content is protected by copyright. Use an authorized account and save only content you are authorized to access.
Do not redistribute saved content. Follow applicable law and FOD's platform terms; permissions depend on the title, your rights, and the specific use case.
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