YouTube: A Global Video Platform YouTube, an American online video-sharing platform owned by Google, launched on February 14, 2005. Founded by former PayPal employees, it has become the world's second-most visited website, boasting over 2.7 billion monthly active users as of January 2024. These users collectively watch over one billion hours of video daily. The platform, headquartered in San Bruno, California, offers a vast library of content, including music videos, news, films, and vlogs, generated by individuals and established media corporations alike. YouTube's revenue model encompasses advertising, paid subscriptions (YouTube Premium), and paid content. In 2023, advertising revenue reached $31.7 billion. Combined advertising and subscription revenue surpassed $50 billion from Q4 2023 to Q3 2024. Acquired by Google in 2006 for $1.65 billion, YouTube has expanded its reach significantly through mobile apps and partnerships with other platforms. While its influence on popular culture and internet trends is undeniable, criticisms persist regarding misinformation, copyright infringement, privacy concerns, and content moderation inconsistencies.