Bilibili is one of China’s biggest video and entertainment platforms. It is often called the “Chinese YouTube” because users can watch videos, follow creators, upload content, and interact with online communities.
However, Bilibili is not simply another version of YouTube.
The platform has its own style, culture, and features. It became famous because of its strong connection with anime, comics, gaming and youth culture. Today, Bilibili also offers entertainment, technology, education, music, lifestyle content and live streaming.
In August 2026, Bilibili received new attention after announcing a wider international rollout of its app. This has created an important question for users around the world:
Where is Bilibili officially available, and can users in India use it?
This article explains what Bilibili is, when it started, where it is currently available, what its latest global expansion means, and whether Indian users and creators should pay attention to it.
What Is Bilibili?
Bilibili is a video-sharing, entertainment and online community platform.
Users can explore content such as:
- Anime and animation
- Gaming
- Entertainment
- Technology
- Educational videos
- Music
- Lifestyle
- Creator content
- Live streaming
The platform started with a strong focus on ACG culture, which means Anime, Comics and Games.
Over time, it grew into a much larger video platform with different types of content and communities.
One of Bilibili’s most famous features is called Danmu, also known as bullet comments.
Unlike traditional comments that stay below a video, Danmu comments can appear directly on the screen while a video is playing.
When Was Bilibili Launched?
Bilibili started in June 2009.
It was originally created as an online community for people interested in anime, comics, games and internet culture.
The platform was officially renamed Bilibili in January 2010.
Since then, the company has grown from a niche ACG community into a major video and entertainment platform.
Who Created Bilibili?
Bilibili was founded by Xu Yi, also known online as 9bishi.
The original platform was created for people who shared an interest in anime, comics and gaming culture.
Today, Bilibili is headquartered in Shanghai, China, and operates as a much larger digital entertainment and video platform.
Why Is Bilibili Called the Chinese YouTube?
The comparison comes from the basic features of both platforms.
Like YouTube, Bilibili allows users to:
- Watch videos
- Follow creators
- Discover new content
- Upload videos
- Interact with other users
- Watch live streams
However, Bilibili has developed its own identity.
Its strongest communities have traditionally included:
- Anime fans
- Gamers
- Young internet users
- Technology enthusiasts
- Creative communities
The platform also has a different way of handling viewer interaction.
What Are Danmu or Bullet Comments?
Danmu is one of Bilibili’s best-known features.
Imagine watching a video and seeing comments from other viewers move across the screen at the exact moment something interesting happens.
For example, if a funny scene appears at 2 minutes and 30 seconds, a viewer can leave a reaction for that exact moment.
When another person watches the video, the comment may appear at 2:30.
This creates a shared viewing experience.
Instead of watching a video alone and then reading comments later, viewers can see reactions while the video is playing.
Users can generally control or hide these comments if they prefer a cleaner viewing experience.
What Can You Watch on Bilibili?
Bilibili is no longer limited to anime and gaming.
Anime and Animation
Anime remains an important part of the Bilibili ecosystem.
The international version of the service focuses strongly on anime and animation content, although the available library can change depending on country and licensing rights.
Gaming
Gaming is another major category.
Users can find:
- Gameplay videos
- Gaming tutorials
- Game reviews
- Esports content
- Gaming creators
- Live streams
Entertainment
The platform also includes entertainment videos and different types of creator content.
Educational Content
Users can explore videos about:
- Technology
- Science
- History
- Digital skills
- Business
- Languages
- Lifestyle
Live Streaming
Bilibili also supports live content and creator-audience interaction.
Where Is Bilibili Officially Available?
This is where many online articles can become confusing.
Bilibili has a Chinese platform and also operates an international service. The international service has already established a presence in several Southeast Asian markets.
According to Bilibili’s official international website, the service is available outside Greater China in:
- Indonesia
- Philippines
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Singapore
- Malaysia
In Indonesia, the international service is also known as Bstation.
These are the countries that Bilibili itself currently lists as established international markets on its official international website.
Established Bilibili International Markets
| Country or Region | Status |
|---|---|
| Greater China | Main Bilibili ecosystem |
| Indonesia | Official international service, also known as Bstation |
| Philippines | Official international availability |
| Thailand | Official international availability |
| Vietnam | Official international availability |
| Singapore | Official international availability |
| Malaysia | Official international availability |
The content, language support, and available features can still vary from one market to another.
What About the New Global Bilibili Launch?
In August 2026, Bilibili began a wider international push.
Recent reports indicate that Bilibili has launched or relaunched its international app for a broader global audience. The current rollout is focused on Android, while an iOS version is expected to follow.
The company is also expected to continue adding countries and improving localization over time.
This is an important difference:
The new global rollout does not mean that every country has the same official local service, content library or creator features.
Some countries already have an established Bilibili international presence. Other markets are part of a newer and gradually expanding global rollout.
Is Bilibili Officially Available in India?
As of August 21, 2026, India is not listed among the established international markets on Bilibili’s official international website.
The official list currently names Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, and Malaysia outside Greater China. India is not included in that list.
At the same time, Bilibili’s newer international expansion means that users in additional markets may begin seeing access to the Android app.
However, this should not automatically be described as a full official India launch.
The current situation can be explained simply:
India: Current Status
- India is not currently listed as an established Bilibili international market on Bilibili’s official international website.
- Bilibili is expanding its international app beyond its earlier Southeast Asian markets.
- Android is the first focus of the newer global rollout.
- iOS availability is expected later.
- More countries are expected to be added gradually.
- A separate, confirmed full India launch has not been clearly announced.
Therefore, Indian users should check the official app store on their own device to see whether the currently available version can be downloaded and used in India.
Availability can change as the rollout expands.
Where Has Bilibili Not Established an Official International Service Yet?
Based on Bilibili’s official international market list, countries such as the following are not currently listed as established Bilibili international markets:
- India
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
- Most European countries
- Most countries in Africa
- Most countries in Latin America
However, this does not always mean that nobody in those countries can access any Bilibili service.
The newer international app rollout is changing availability.
There is an important difference between:
- An established official regional Bilibili service
- A newer globally distributed app that may be available for download
- Full access to all content and creator features
These three things are not always the same.
That is why users should avoid assuming that “global launch” means identical access in every country.
Can Indian Users Download Bilibili?
The safest method is simple.
Open:
- Google Play Store on Android
- Apple App Store on iPhone
Then search for the official Bilibili app available for your region.
Do not download unknown APK files from random websites.
Before installing the app, check:
- App developer details
- Reviews
- Privacy information
- Permissions
- Regional availability
Because Bilibili’s international rollout is expanding, the result may change over time.
What Are the Benefits of Bilibili for Indian Users?
1. A Different Video Experience
The Danmu comment system makes Bilibili different from YouTube and most other video platforms.
It creates a more interactive experience.
2. Strong Anime Community
Bilibili began with a strong focus on anime, comics, and gaming.
This makes it interesting for Indian users who enjoy anime and animation.
3. Gaming Content
Gamers can explore:
- Gameplay
- Reviews
- Tutorials
- Creator videos
- Live content
4. International Content
Bilibili can help users discover creators and communities outside the platforms they normally use.
5. A New Platform to Watch
The wider global expansion could make Bilibili an interesting platform to watch over the next few years.
Can Indian Content Creators Use Bilibili?
Indian creators may be interested in Bilibili because the company is trying to expand its international creator ecosystem.
Recent reports suggest that Bilibili is making it easier for overseas users to sign up and is looking to attract creators outside China.
However, creators should check the actual features available to their account and region before making Bilibili a major part of their strategy.
Important things to check include:
- Account registration
- Video upload access
- Community guidelines
- Copyright policies
- Language support
- Analytics
- Monetization
- Payment eligibility
What Type of Indian Creators Could Benefit?
Bilibili may be especially interesting for creators who produce:
- Gaming videos
- Anime content
- Technology content
- Animation
- Educational content
- AI-related content
- Digital culture content
However, local Indian businesses should not immediately move their entire marketing strategy to Bilibili.
For a business targeting Indian customers, platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and Google Search may still provide a much larger audience.
Can You Make Money From Bilibili?
Bilibili has different creator, advertising and live-streaming business models.
However, monetization is not guaranteed for every creator.
Eligibility can depend on:
- Country
- Account type
- Audience
- Content
- Platform policies
- Available creator programs
Indian creators should therefore not join Bilibili only because they expect immediate income.
A better strategy is to first test the platform and understand its audience.
Bilibili vs YouTube: Which Is Better?
Both platforms have different strengths.
| Feature | Bilibili | YouTube |
| Video Content | Yes | Yes |
| Long Videos | Yes | Yes |
| Live Streaming | Yes | Yes |
| Gaming | Strong | Strong |
| Anime Community | Very Strong | Strong |
| Danmu Comments | Yes | No |
| Indian Audience | Still developing | Very large |
| Global Reach | Expanding | Very large |
| Search Traffic | Smaller | Very strong |
| Creator Ecosystem | Growing internationally | Well established |
YouTube May Be Better If You Want:
- A large Indian audience
- Strong Google and YouTube search traffic
- An established creator ecosystem
- Better-known monetization options
- Long-term video discovery
Bilibili May Be Worth Trying If You Want:
- A new audience
- Anime and gaming communities
- A different interactive experience
- International creator opportunities
- Early access to a growing platform
For most Indian creators, the smartest approach is not to choose only one platform.
A better strategy is:
Keep your main content platform where your audience already exists and test Bilibili with selected content.
Is Bilibili Safe to Use?
Like any online platform, users should follow basic safety practices.
- Download only from official app stores.
- Use a strong password.
- Review privacy settings.
- Do not share unnecessary personal information.
- Avoid suspicious links.
- Check app permissions before accepting them.
Parents should also review the type of content and age suitability before allowing children to use any video platform.
Can Bilibili Really Compete With YouTube?
Bilibili can compete for attention, especially in areas such as:
- Anime
- Gaming
- Youth culture
- Interactive communities
However, YouTube remains much larger globally and has a very strong presence in India.
YouTube also has major advantages in:
- Search traffic
- Global reach
- Creator tools
- Advertising
- Monetization
- Content discovery
Bilibili’s biggest strength is that it does not need to copy YouTube completely.
Its unique community culture and Danmu commenting system give users a different experience.
The company’s new international expansion will show whether it can build strong communities outside its traditional markets.
Should Indian Users Try Bilibili?
Yes, Indian users can keep an eye on Bilibili, especially if they enjoy:
- Anime
- Gaming
- Technology
- International content
- Online creator communities
However, users should understand the current situation.
Bilibili is already officially established in several Southeast Asian markets. India is not currently listed among those established markets on the company’s international website.
At the same time, the company has started a wider global Android rollout, with iOS expected later and more countries expected to follow.
This makes Bilibili a platform worth watching.
Final Thoughts
Bilibili started in 2009 as a community connected to anime, comics and gaming. Over the years, it grew into a major video and entertainment platform.
Its most unique feature is Danmu, which allows comments to appear directly on videos and creates a more interactive viewing experience.
For its international service, Bilibili is already officially established in:
- Indonesia
- Philippines
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Singapore
- Malaysia
It is now also pushing toward a wider global rollout.
For India, the situation is still developing. India is not currently listed as an established Bilibili international market, but the newer global expansion could gradually increase access to users in more countries.
For Indian viewers, Bilibili may be worth exploring.
For Indian creators, it may be worth testing.
But for now, YouTube and other major platforms should remain the main priority if the target audience is primarily in India.
The best strategy is simple:
Watch the rollout, check official availability, test the platform if it becomes accessible to you, and make decisions based on real results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.What is the Bilibili app?
Bilibili is a video-sharing, entertainment, and online community platform known for anime, gaming, creator videos, live streaming and interactive Danmu comments.
Q2.When was Bilibili launched?
Bilibili started in June 2009 and was officially named Bilibili in January 2010.
Q3.Where is Bilibili officially available?
Bilibili’s official international website currently lists Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore and Malaysia outside Greater China.
Q4.Is Bilibili available in India?
India is not currently listed as an established Bilibili international market on the company’s official international website. However, Bilibili is expanding its international app more widely, so users should check official app stores for current availability.
Q5.Has Bilibili launched globally?
Bilibili has started a wider international rollout of its app. Current reporting indicates that Android availability is the first stage, while iOS and additional country availability are expected to expand over time.
Q6.What are Danmu comments?
Danmu, also called bullet comments, are comments that appear directly on the screen while a video is playing.
Q7.Is Bilibili better than YouTube?
They serve different audiences. YouTube is currently much stronger for Indian and global reach, while Bilibili offers a different community experience and has strong roots in anime and gaming culture.
Q8.Can Indian creators upload videos to Bilibili?
Creators should check current registration, upload, and regional eligibility for their accounts. Bilibili’s international expansion may create more opportunities, but available features can vary.
Q9.Can Indian creators earn money from Bilibili?
Monetization depends on country, creator eligibility, account type, and current platform policies. Indian creators should check official requirements before depending on Bilibili as a source of income.
Q10.Should Indian users try Bilibili?
Yes, especially users interested in anime, gaming, and international creator communities. However, Bilibili should currently be viewed as a growing platform to explore rather than a replacement for YouTube in India.
References
- Bilibili International App Global Launch – Information about the international app launch, Android availability, upcoming iOS version, improved localisation and easier sign-up.
Bilibili International App Launch Report - Bilibili’s Global Expansion and YouTube Competition – Reports on Bilibili’s plans to expand internationally, attract global creators and develop an English-language platform.
Read the Global Expansion Report - Bilibili Official Platform Information – Official information about Bilibili’s content ecosystem, including animations, entertainment and user-generated creator videos.
Bilibili Official Website - Bilibili User Base and Company Performance – Bilibili reported that its monthly active users surpassed 376 million in the first quarter of 2026.
Bilibili Investor Information - Latest Coverage of Bilibili’s Global Launch – Recent reporting on the platform’s international rollout and plans to expand availability.
Latest Bilibili Global Launch Coverage
