WatchThis!

WatchThis! is a browser extension designed to simplify sharing YouTube videos directly with friends. Instead of sending links through traditional messaging platforms, users can recommend videos that appear right on their friends' YouTube homepage, making video discovery more personal and accessible. The tool is aimed at individuals who frequently share YouTube content and seek a more streamlined, integrated way to offer recommendations.

The extension adds a Recommend button to every YouTube video. By clicking this button, users can select friends from their list, and the chosen video will show up as a recommendation on the friends' YouTube startpage the next time they visit. Friends are added by sharing a unique invite link; once accepted and the extension is installed, users are connected for instant sharing. WatchThis! emphasizes privacy, storing only the minimal data necessary to deliver recommendations. It does not track viewing habits, and all data is encrypted. The project is open source, allowing anyone to review the code for transparency regarding privacy and data handling.

WatchThis! is available for all Chromium-based browsers, including Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Brave, and Opera. Support for Firefox is planned for the near future. The service is completely free to use and is funded through voluntary community donations. While there is a possibility of introducing a Pro tier if hosting costs are not covered, a generous free tier will always remain available. The tool is community-funded and privacy-focused, positioning itself as an accessible solution for sharing YouTube video recommendations among friends.