Our Story
Why we built FilterTube and our mission to create calmer, more focused digital experiences.
Decluttering for Sanity
FilterTube was born from a simple belief: everyone deserves control over their digital experience. In a world of endless content and algorithmic feeds, we're building tools that put users back in the driver's seat.
The Problem We're Solving
Modern video platforms are designed to maximize engagement, not user well-being. Algorithmic feeds often surface content that can be overwhelming, distracting, or even harmful for users with ADHD, autism, PTSD, or anxiety.
Parents struggle to create safe viewing environments for their children, while individuals seeking focused, educational content find themselves lost in endless streams of clickbait and sensationalized videos.
Existing filtering tools are either too basic, unreliable, or come with privacy concerns. We knew there had to be a better way.
Real User Needs
"You're not alone in seeking better filtering. The need is clear in locked threads like this one requesting basic features."
Google Support Thread:
"How to block videos by keyword or tag?" - A locked thread with hundreds of requests for basic filtering features that major platforms still don't provide.
Our Approach: Privacy-First, User-Controlled
Privacy First
All filtering happens locally in your browser. We never collect, store, or transmit your data.
Community Driven
Open source development with features requested and tested by real users who need better filtering.
Precision Control
Granular filtering options that let you create exactly the viewing experience you want.
Designed for Neurodiversity
ADHD Support: Reduce cognitive overload and eliminate distracting content that can derail focus and productivity.
Autism Considerations: Predictable, consistent filtering that creates calm, structured viewing environments.
Anxiety & PTSD: Proactive content filtering to avoid triggers and create safer digital spaces.
Accessibility at the Core
FilterTube isn't just another browser extension—it's an accessibility tool. We recognize that for many users, effective content filtering isn't a convenience; it's a necessity for mental health and well-being.
Our design philosophy prioritizes clear interfaces, predictable behavior, and gentle interactions that don't overwhelm users who may be sensitive to visual noise or unexpected changes.
Every feature is tested with accessibility in mind, ensuring that FilterTube works well with screen readers, keyboard navigation, and other assistive technologies.
Technical Innovation: v2.0 Data Interception
Beyond CSS Hiding
Most content filters work by hiding elements after they've already loaded—causing visual flicker and unreliable filtering. FilterTube v2.0 takes a revolutionary approach.
We intercept YouTube's raw data before it's rendered, filter it at the source, and then allow only the approved content to display. This results in zero visual flicker and 100% reliable filtering.
Why This Matters
- •No Visual Flicker: Content appears clean from the first moment
- •Faster Performance: No need to process unwanted content
- •Better for ADHD: Eliminates distracting visual changes
- •More Reliable: Works regardless of YouTube's UI changes
Independent & Transparent
Legal Position
FilterTube is an independent project, not affiliated with Google, YouTube, or any major tech company. We operate under fair use principles, providing users with tools to customize their own viewing experience.
Our extension works by modifying how content is displayed in your browser—similar to ad blockers, accessibility tools, or browser themes. We don't modify YouTube's servers or violate any terms of service.
Trademark Notice: YouTube™ and YouTube Kids™ are trademarks of Google LLC. FilterTube is not endorsed by or affiliated with Google LLC.
Our Vision for the Future
Expanding Platforms
- •Native mobile apps for iOS and Android
- •Support for additional video platforms
- •Enhanced YouTube Kids filtering and safety features
- •Cross-device filter synchronization
Advanced Features
- •AI-powered semantic content analysis
- •Thumbnail content analysis and blurring
- •Community-driven filter sharing
- •Enhanced accessibility features
Our ultimate goal is to create a digital ecosystem where users have complete control over their content consumption, leading to healthier, more intentional relationships with technology.
Join Our Mission
FilterTube is more than software—it's a movement toward more mindful, user-controlled digital experiences. Join thousands of users who have already taken back control of their feeds.