YouTube is an American social media and online video-sharing platform owned by Google. It was founded on February 14, 2005, by Chad Hurley, Steve Chen, and Jawed Karim, who were former employees of PayPal. Its headquarters are in San Bruno, California. YouTube is the second-most-visited website in the world, after Google Search.
YouTube allows users to upload, view, share, and comment on videos. It monetizes through advertisements and subscriptions for access to premium content. The application is available for Android and iOS users.
YouTube aims to provide personalized content for all ages and interests. However, its primary target demographic is users aged 15-35 who engage with the platform for various content, including music, entertainment, and education. As of January 2025, 46% of YouTube's audience was female, and 54% was male.
Key features include:
* **Video Uploading and Sharing**: Users can upload, share, and view videos.
* **Playlists**: Users can create and share playlists.
* **YouTube Music**: Access to a vast library of songs and podcasts.
* **Live Streaming**: Ability to broadcast live video content.
* **Customization**: Users can create custom thumbnails and add chapters to videos.
* **Community Features**: Tools for viewers to discuss videos, share fan art, and connect with creators.
* **Offline Downloads**: YouTube Premium members can download videos to watch offline.
* **Background Play**: YouTube Premium allows playing videos in the background while using other apps.
* **Ad-free Viewing**: YouTube Premium members can watch videos without ads.
YouTube offers several subscription options:
* **Individual Plan**: $13.99 per month or $139.99 per year.
* **Family Plan**: $22.99 per month for up to five family members.
* **Student Plan**: $7.99 per month for eligible students.
YouTube began as a venture capital-funded technology startup. Between November 2005 and April 2006, the company raised $11.5 million in funding from Sequoia Capital and Artis Ventures. In November 2006, Google acquired YouTube for US$1.65 billion.
YouTube's competitive positioning is influenced by its vast user base, extensive content library, and strong brand recognition. The platform faces competition from other video platforms, social media sites, and streaming services like TikTok. YouTube's competitive advantages include its scale, recommendation algorithm, and diverse product offerings.
