Key Takeaways
- Me at the Zoo was the very first video uploaded to YouTube, on April 23, 2005.
- The video uploaded by YouTube co-founder Javed Karim is now preserved for exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.
- It has attracted over 382 million views since it was first uploaded on the platform.
- The original look of the video’s design is preserved. A UX developer has recreated its look for the exhibit.
The 19-second clip ‘Me at the Zoo’ features Javed Karim discussing the elephants. Since its upload, it has become an internet landmark. After two decades, the video’s layout has received a special honour at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.
V&A Museum Acquires YouTube’s First Video
The museum acquired the video’s view page, which was revealed on February 18th, 2026. The museum’s goal is to preserve and document Internet history. The museum officials hired a UX designer to recreate the look of YouTube in 2005. The old interface had a simple design, a basic rating system, and a much smaller description box.
There is a stark difference in the look and feel of YouTube’s interface then and now. Which is exactly why the Me at the Zoo and its vintage look are now on display at the V&A East storehouse.
It is not the first time that the video has received such a prestigious recognition. In April 2025, YouTube honoured this video by replacing the scroll button with a special cake graphic. YouTube only gives this type of recognition to iconic videos. Now, in Feb 2026, the video view page has earned a place in the museum.
Why this Milestone Matters For the Creators?
The video proves that taking the first step is important, no matter the result. Who knew the first-ever video uploaded on YouTube would create history in the world of the internet and mark the beginning of YouTube? Also, the video is not high-production or high-budget. It is raw, authentic, and simple. Take that leap of faith: begin your journey by creating your YT channel and uploading the first video.
Final Thoughts
A simple 19-second video of me at the Zoo is exciting for the creator community. If you are in London, visit the V&A East Storehouse and see the masterpiece in person. YouTube has come a long way, but this moment still reminds us that humble beginnings can create a huge impact.
