YouTube is one of the most popular sources for videos on the internet. Users can view videos uploaded by other users for free through the site. There is a social element included as well, with user comment capabilities for each video. Users can maintain a profile which includes a list of their favorite videos as well as any they have uploaded.
Users can follow each other and send private messages. YouTube also provides convenient search features and the ability to embed videos or share them through email, links, forums or social networking websites. Each video page includes all the sharing tools, a like or dislike rating option, viewing stats and a list of suggested similar video clips.
YouTube users can also post video responses to clips shared by other users. The site provides its users with a place to watch free videos as well as a basic social networking resource. The site also includes a section where users can use Xtranormal, Stupeflix and GoAnimate to make videos for upload.
YouTube came to be in September of 2005. It was founded by Chad Hurley, Jawed Karim and Steve Chen. Each founder spent time as a part of Paypal during the company’s early years. Within its first year, YouTube had grown in popularity and was purchased by Google. The site has maintained partnerships with many well-known companies, including the Warner Music Group, CBS, BBC and the Universal Music Group.
In June of 2007, international versions of YouTube were launched for users in France, Brazil, Ireland, Japan, Poland, Italy, Netherlands and the United Kingdom.
YouTube has become hugely popular over the years. Today it stands out as one of the most popular websites available. Many users visit YouTube each day for entertainment or to look for specific videos. The site continues to remain popular, although it has evolved from its original launch in 2005.
Most users are familiar with the look of YouTube. The website features a white background with showcased videos found on the homepage. The individual video pages include a player for the clip as well as a list of suggested videos along the right hand side. Below the video, users can post comments and responses to the clip or use the various sharing tools to pass it along to others across the web.
A visitor can join the YouTube community by clicking on the blue “Create Account” link found in the upper, right hand corner of the homepage. The registration form requires an email address, username, location, postal code, date of birth and gender. The user can also sign up for occasional product related emails from third party companies (although this is not a requirement). A second box is automatically selected that will allow other users to find the user’s channel on YouTube if they have an email address. This can be unchecked if the user prefers. Users can also sign up through an existing Google account.
One of the most appealing aspects of YouTube is the price. Anyone can create an account and access the site for free. There are no subscription fees or set up cost for using the features available on YouTube. No premium paid membership option is available at this time. All users can watch clips as often as they like and access community and sharing tools for free.
YouTube is one of the most popular options for watching videos online. Any user looking to past the time can find a number of entertainment options on YouTube. The site is also ideal for users who want to share a video clip.