www.youtube.com

'you tube' is a site were users can create an account and download and share video clips. The website is a clear example of convergence and narrowing the gap between television and the internet. The fact that users can watch episodes of 'the simpsons', watch trailers for their favorite movie and even watch music videos via you tube shows how television and the internet are slowly merging into one product and how with the use of new media technologies, it is not necessary to own a television in order to watch programmes.
However it is clear that the most important aspect of youtube is the fact that members are allow to post their own videos. This allows the consumers of the media to be more involved in making the media. The site thus encourages democratisation as users have the chance to play a role in the mediaIt also benefits independant film makers as it provides them with a platform to advertise their work on- for free. Also, fans of films can make their own parodies of films, such as the famous 'lord of the rings' spoof produced by a group of teenagers.
Video technology on phones and new digital camcorders has allowed people of all ages to make a contribution to the media, without paying.