What is youtube-dl?
Introduction
youtube-dl is a powerful command-line program that allows users to download videos from various websites, including YouTube and over 1000 other sites. It is a platform-independent tool that requires the Python interpreter to run.
Features and Compatibility
youtube-dl is not just a standalone program; it can be enhanced with front-ends like Youtube-DLG and integrated into other applications such as MPV. This integration allows users to watch online videos within their preferred local applications.
GitHub Repository and Forks
In October 2020, the GitHub repository for youtube-dl was shut down. However, it was restored in November of the same year. During this period, a fork of youtube-dl called youtube-dlc (also known as yt-dlc) was created. Unfortunately, the development of youtube-dlc was soon discontinued. However, another fork called yt-dlp (yt-dl plus) emerged as a continuation of the project.
Development History
The development of youtube-dl started back in 2006 by rg3. However, rg3 withdrew from the project in 2011, and since then, the lead developer has changed.
youtube-dl has become a popular tool for downloading videos from various websites, offering users flexibility and control over their media consumption. With its compatibility with different platforms and integration capabilities, it has gained a loyal user base. Despite the challenges faced by the project, the development of youtube-dl continues to evolve with the support of the community.
