Draft:Vidlii

VidLii is a video sharing website that was created by Jan in December 2015 as an alternative to YouTube. The website is designed to resemble the early days of YouTube, with a simple and nostalgic interface that harkens back to the early 2000s. VidLii is part of the Alt-Vid Community, which is a group of video creators and enthusiasts who use retro-style platforms to express themselves.

History
VidLii was launched by Jan, a web developer and video enthusiast, in December 2015, as a personal project to recreate the old YouTube experience. Jan was inspired by the changes and controversies that YouTube underwent in the 2010s, such as the introduction of the Google+ integration, the removal of video responses, the algorithm changes, the demonetization issues, and the censorship of certain content. Jan wanted to create a platform that would allow users to upload and watch videos without any restrictions or limitations, and to enjoy the simplicity and diversity of the early YouTube community.

VidLii initially had a small user base, mostly consisting of Jan’s friends and acquaintances. However, the website gradually gained more popularity and attention, especially after it was featured on various media outlets and websites, such as MakeUseOf, TechRadar, Wired, and Nostalgia Nerd. VidLii also attracted users who were dissatisfied with YouTube’s policies and practices, or who wanted to explore their creativity and nostalgia in a different way.

As of March 2024, VidLii has over 2 million registered users and 10 million uploaded videos.

Features
VidLii allows users to upload, watch, rate, comment, and share videos of various genres and topics, such as gaming, music, comedy, animation, and more. Users can also customize their channels and profiles, as well as create playlists and groups. VidLii supports multiple video formats and resolutions, including Flash Video (FLV) and WebM. VidLii also features a partner program that enables eligible users to earn revenue from their videos and access exclusive features, such as custom thumbnails, banners, and video quality options.

VidLii’s interface is inspired by the early versions of YouTube, such as the 2005 and 2008 layouts. VidLii uses a simple and colorful design, with a white background and blue accents. VidLii also incorporates elements from the early YouTube culture, such as the star rating system, the video response feature, the bulletin board, and the classic YouTube logo. VidLii also allows users to choose from different themes and skins, such as the 2010 and 2012 YouTube layouts.

Reception
VidLii has gained popularity among nostalgic and creative users who enjoy the freedom and diversity of the platform. VidLii has been described as a “YouTube clone that’s stuck in 2008”, a “retro renaissance”, and a “YouTube alternative for nostalgia lovers”. VidLii has also been praised for its retro design, user-friendly interface, and unique community, which offer a different and refreshing experience from the modern YouTube.

However, VidLii has also faced some challenges and criticisms, such as technical issues, legal disputes, content moderation, and competition from other platforms. VidLii has also been accused of hosting inappropriate or offensive content, such as hate speech, pornography, gore, and spam. VidLii has stated that it does not endorse or support any of the content uploaded by its users, and that it respects the freedom of expression and creativity of its community.