Was the original purpose of YouTube focused on entertainment or utility?

The original purpose of YouTube was primarily focused on utility rather than entertainment, although it encompassed elements of both. When YouTube was launched in 2005 by Steve Chen, Chad Hurley, and Jawed Karim, its primary goal was to provide a platform for easy video sharing and user-generated content.

While entertainment content quickly became popular on YouTube, including comedy sketches, music videos, and viral videos, the platform's utility as a tool for sharing personal videos, tutorials, educational content, and other practical information was equally significant.

YouTube's founders recognized the utility of video as a medium for communication, expression, and sharing experiences. They aimed to democratize video sharing by creating a platform that made it accessible to anyone with an internet connection and a camera, regardless of their technical expertise or resources.

In essence, while entertainment content played a prominent role on YouTube and contributed to its early growth and popularity, the platform's original purpose was rooted in utility, providing users with a convenient and accessible way to share and consume video content for a wide range of purposes, from entertainment to education, communication, and beyond.