FreeTube: An Open Source YouTube App with Portable Configuration
Introduction:
In the world of online video streaming, YouTube has undoubtedly become a dominant platform. However, some users may have concerns about privacy and data tracking while using the official YouTube website or app. This is where FreeTube comes into play. FreeTube is an open-source YouTube app that provides users with a more private and customizable experience. In this article, we will explore the portable version of FreeTube and how to configure it for easy portability.
Understanding FreeTube’s Portable Version:
By default, FreeTube does not offer a portable configuration option. Its files are stored in the AppData folder on Windows systems, making it less convenient for users who prefer a portable setup. However, there is a simple workaround to make FreeTube portable.
Making FreeTube Portable:
To make FreeTube portable, you can follow these steps:
-
Create a Shortcut: Locate the freetube.exe file on your system and create a shortcut for it. You can typically find this file in the installation directory of FreeTube.
-
Modify the Shortcut Properties: Right-click on the newly created shortcut and select “Properties” from the context menu. In the properties window, you will see a field labeled “Target.”
-
Add Portable Configuration: In the “Target” field, add "–user-data-dir=.\Data" at the end of the existing path. This command tells FreeTube to store all settings and data in a folder named “Data” within the same directory as the executable file.
-
Save Changes: Click on “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes made to the shortcut properties.
Benefits of Using FreeTube’s Portable Version:
The portable version of FreeTube offers several advantages for users who prefer to carry their applications on external storage devices or use them across multiple computers:
-
Portability: With FreeTube’s portable configuration, you can easily carry the app on a USB drive or any other portable storage device. This allows you to use FreeTube on different computers without leaving any traces behind.
-
Customization: By having all settings and data stored in the portable folder, you can customize FreeTube according to your preferences and retain those settings across different devices. This includes options such as theme selection, playback quality, and privacy settings.
-
Privacy and Security: FreeTube’s portable version ensures that your personal data and browsing history are kept within the portable folder.
Conclusion:
FreeTube is an excellent open-source alternative to the official YouTube app, offering users more control over their online video streaming experience. While the portable configuration option is not available by default, creating a shortcut with the appropriate command allows you to make FreeTube portable. This enables you to carry your personalized settings and data with you wherever you go, ensuring a consistent and private viewing experience.