Freetube has been a great alternative for me. While it still doesn't have tabs, I just figured out earlier today that middle clicking opens the link or video to a new window.
I’ve been using free tube for about a month now and been really happy.
My only downsides are that I use it on multiple comps, and like to watch YouTube on my tv as well, and by freetubes very nature, those don’t sync subs/history etc. which is expected of course.
The other bummer for me personally is I did really like the YouTube algorithms suggestions for me, so it’s a little harder for me to find new creators now.
But all in all, minor issues for some completely free software that works well and does what it says it’ll do! Would absolutely suggest people at least give it a try!
I have had free tube very loosely recommend me some related videos, but nothing like the full feed yet.
I wonder if they could somehow make a section of like “videos that are not from your subs, but would be recommended under your subs videos” to explore other creators with similar content.
No idea if you can scrape that kinda info from YouTube without all the account stuff though.
Occasionally I'll click over to the Trending list to see if there's anything if interest. That mostly seems to represent what teenagers are watching but there are occasional gems in there.