Metacafe: The Ultimate Guide to Short-Form Video Entertainment

Welcome to the most comprehensive resource on Metacafe—the legendary short-form video platform that shaped the way we consume online entertainment. Dive deep into its history, features, impact, and discover the best alternatives for video lovers and creators.

What is Metacafe?

Metacafe was a pioneering video-sharing website founded in 2003 in Tel Aviv, Israel. Unlike other platforms, Metacafe specialized in short, engaging videos—typically between 90 seconds and 3 minutes—across categories like humor, sports, music, games, technology, and more. Its focus on bite-sized, viral content made it a favorite destination for millions of users worldwide.

The History of Metacafe

Metacafe was founded by Eyal Hertzog and Arik Czerniak, quickly attracting investment from major venture capital firms. By 2006, it had become the third largest video site globally, trailing only YouTube and Dailymotion. Its unique approach to content curation and creator rewards set it apart in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

In its early years, Metacafe partnered with major movie studios, video game publishers, TV networks, music labels, and sports leagues, offering a diverse and dynamic video library. The platform was supported by advertising and worked closely with brands across various sectors.

In 2007, Erick Hachenburg, a former Electronic Arts executive, became CEO. The company continued to innovate, but as mobile and social media platforms surged, Metacafe struggled to keep pace. In 2012, it was acquired by The Collective, a digital talent agency, and eventually ceased operations in August 2021.

Key Features of Metacafe

Producer Rewards Program

One of Metacafe’s standout features was its Producer Rewards Program. This initiative allowed content creators to monetize their videos based on performance. If a video reached at least 20,000 views, achieved a VideoRank rating of 3.00 or higher, and complied with community standards, the creator earned $5 for every 1,000 U.S. views.

This program incentivized originality and quality, leading to several viral hits that gained national media attention. Notable examples include the Can Tossing Video, the Beer Launching Fridge, and the Ron Paul Girl series.

How to Use Metacafe (When It Was Active)

  1. Visit the official Metacafe website.
  2. Browse or search for videos by category or keyword.
  3. Create an account to upload, comment, and rate videos.
  4. Share your favorite videos on social media or via email.
  5. Upload original content and participate in the Producer Rewards Program.

Watching videos did not require an account, but uploading, commenting, and rating did.

Best Metacafe Alternatives

The Legacy of Metacafe

Metacafe’s influence on the world of online video cannot be overstated. It helped popularize short-form, viral content and inspired a new generation of creators and platforms. Its focus on quality, community, and creator rewards set standards that many modern platforms still follow.

Even after its closure, Metacafe is fondly remembered by millions who enjoyed its unique blend of entertainment and innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for the Best Metacafe Experience

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Conclusion

Metacafe’s journey from a startup in Tel Aviv to a global video-sharing powerhouse is a testament to the power of innovation and community. While the platform is no longer active, its legacy lives on in the countless creators and viewers it inspired. Whether you’re reminiscing about the golden age of online video or searching for the next big thing, Metacafe’s story is one worth remembering.