How to Install Freetube on Manjaro Linux

FreeTube is a cutting-edge, open-source application that provides a private and ad-free YouTube experience. Catering to users who value their privacy, FreeTube offers a range of features that set it apart from the standard YouTube experience. In this introduction, we’ll take a closer look at these differences.

Key Features and Differences of FreeTube

• Privacy Focused: FreeTube utilizes a local API, meaning your viewing history, subscriptions, and preferences are stored only on your device. This prevents YouTube and third parties from tracking your activity.
• Ad-Free Experience: Say goodbye to annoying ads! FreeTube blocks advertisements, providing a seamless and uninterrupted viewing experience.
• Open Source: FreeTube’s source code is publicly available, allowing users to inspect, modify, and contribute to the project. This promotes transparency and community engagement.
• Cross-Platform: FreeTube is compatible with various platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it accessible to many users.
• Inbuilt Download Manager: FreeTube includes a built-in download manager, allowing you to download videos in various resolutions and formats without needing external software.
• Customizable Interface: Personalize your FreeTube experience with a customizable interface, including dark mode and adjustable video player sizes.
• Subscriptions and Playlists: Manage your subscriptions and create playlists without a Google account. This feature allows you to keep your favorite content organized and easily accessible.
• Video Playback Control: FreeTube provides advanced video playback control, such as speed adjustments, video quality selection, and theater mode, ensuring the optimal viewing experience.

Now that you better understand what sets FreeTube apart from the standard YouTube experience, you’re ready to make the switch. The following guide will demonstrate how to install FreeTube on Manjaro Linux from the AUR.

Step 1: Update Manjaro

Ensure your system is updated before continuing with this tutorial. This is optional but recommended, especially given how Manjaro is based on a rolling Linux distribution.

sudo pacman -Syu

Sometimes, you may need a complete database download if you have not upgraded your Manjaro system for a while; use the following command if the above update command does not work.

sudo pacman -Syyu

Install Freetube with Manjaro

Situational – Enable AUR for ‘pamac.’

First, by default, AUR is disabled. You will first need to enable it, which you can do with the following command.

sudo sed -Ei '/EnableAUR/s/^#//' /etc/pamac.conf

Run FreeTube installation commands.

Now that you have enabled the AUR. Run the following command that will build or install FreeTube on your system.

pamac build freetube

The process should not take more than a minute or two at max. Once done, you can move on to launching the application.

How to Launch Freetube

Once you complete the setup process, you can launch the app in a few ways.

Open the software program via the Command Line Terminal. The process involves entering the command shown below into the prompt window.

freetube

The best way to use FreeTube for desktop users that prefer not to use the command line terminal is to open the GUI of the application by following the path.

Taskbar > Internet > Freetube

Example:

With the application now open, you can search or enter URLs, view trends, and more with the FreeTube application.

Example:

Do not forget to check out the settings menu to configure your FreeTube player.

Example changing to dark mode:

Getting Started with Freetube on Manjaro Linux

Once you have successfully installed FreeTube on your Manjaro Desktop, it’s time to explore its features and customize the application to fit your needs. In this section, we’ll provide some guidance on general tips, customizations, and other helpful information to help you maximize your FreeTube experience.

1. Personalize Your Interface

Customize your FreeTube interface to match your preferences and enhance your viewing experience:

• Themes: Choose between light and dark modes to suit your visual preferences.
• Player Size: Adjust the video player’s size to create a comfortable viewing environment.
• Font Size: Modify the font size for improved readability.
• Language: Set your preferred language for the application’s interface.

2. Manage Your Content

Organize your favorite channels and videos for easy access:

• Subscriptions: Subscribe to your favorite channels without needing a Google account.
• Playlists: Create and manage playlists to categorize and access your favorite content.
• History: Keep track of your recently watched videos with the local viewing history feature.

3. Advanced Video Playback Control

Take control of your video playback for the optimal viewing experience:

• Video Quality: Manually select the desired video quality, or let FreeTube choose the best quality based on your internet connection.
• Playback Speed: Adjust the playback speed to your preference, from 0.25x to 2x the normal speed.
• Theater Mode: Enable theater mode for a more significant video player and an immersive experience.
• Audio-Only Mode: Conserve bandwidth and enjoy content without video when audio is enough.

4. Inbuilt Download Manager

Utilize FreeTube’s built-in download manager for offline viewing:

• Download Videos: Easily download videos in various resolutions and formats.
• Download Audio: Extract and download audio-only files for a more lightweight option.

5. Privacy Settings

Fine-tune your privacy settings for a secure and private YouTube experience:

• Local API: Ensure your viewing history, subscriptions, and preferences are stored locally on your device.
• Proxy Configuration: Configure a proxy to enhance your privacy and bypass geo-restrictions further.

Following these tips and customizations can create a personalized and enjoyable FreeTube experience on your Manjaro Desktop.

Additional Commands & Tips

How to Update FreeTube

The best way to upgrade the software is to use the following terminal command.

sudo pamac checkupdates -a

sudo pamac upgrade -a

It is advised to run terminal commands occasionally, even if you have set up AUR auto-updates using the automatic GUI updater; this ensures you are not missing anything.

How to Remove (Uninstall) FreeTube

Execute the following terminal command for users wanting to remove the software.

pamac remove freetube

Finally, for those who enabled the AUR with Manjaro’s package manager and later changed their minds about using it and instead wanted to use something else, you can easily disable it using this command.

sudo sed -Ei '/EnableAUR/s/^/#/' /etc/pamac.conf

Conclusion

In conclusion, installing FreeTube on Manjaro Desktop provides users with a privacy-focused, ad-free, and customizable YouTube alternative. By following the installation guide and taking advantage of the various features and settings, users can enjoy a personalized and secure video streaming experience. With its open-source nature and cross-platform compatibility, FreeTube is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and feature-rich YouTube client on their Manjaro Desktop.