YouTube is an online video platform owned by Google. It is used for video hosting, livestreaming, music, education, entertainment, news, commentary, short-form video, community posts and creator monetisation.
YouTube's own About page states its mission as giving everyone a voice and showing them the world. In practical terms, the platform connects viewers, creators, advertisers, music rights holders, media companies and educational channels through a large recommendation and search system.
History
YouTube was founded in 2005 by Chad Hurley, Steve Chen and Jawed Karim. The first video, "Me at the zoo", was uploaded by Karim in April 2005. Google acquired YouTube in 2006.
The platform later expanded beyond simple video upload and playback. Major additions included partner monetisation, Content ID, livestreaming, channel memberships, YouTube Premium, YouTube Music, YouTube Kids, Shorts and YouTube Studio.
Creator Tools
Creators can upload videos, manage channels, use analytics, schedule premieres, run livestreams, respond to comments and manage copyright claims. YouTube Studio is the main dashboard for publishing, analytics, channel settings and monetisation controls.
The YouTube Partner Programme allows eligible channels to earn money from advertising and other features, subject to policy and eligibility requirements.
Moderation and Policy
YouTube has rules on copyright, harmful content, harassment, misinformation, child safety, spam and other policy areas. Enforcement can include removal, age restriction, demonetisation, warning, strike or channel termination.
Moderation remains controversial because decisions can affect public debate, news distribution, music rights, education, satire, creator income and advertiser safety.
Products
Related products and services include YouTube Music, YouTube Premium, YouTube Kids, YouTube TV, YouTube Studio, YouTube Shorts and YouTube Advertising.
See Also
References
Discussion log
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