Popular tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee, better known as MKBHD, has responded to the backlash surrounding his newly launched wallpaper app, Panels. The app, launched as part of his iPhone 16 review, has received mixed reactions, primarily due to its pricing and data disclosure practices.
On Tuesday, Brownlee addressed the criticism directly, reassuring users that he would address their concerns. He acknowledged the feedback regarding the app’s pricing and the amount of data it collects. “Part of building in public is getting mass feedback immediately, which is pretty dope. Almost exactly like publishing a YouTube video,” MKBHD said on X, formerly Twitter. “As far as pricing, I hear you! It’s our own personal challenge to work to deliver that kind of value for the premium version.”
He also promised to reduce the frequency of ads for the free version, aiming to improve the user experience.
The Panels app offers access to a curated selection of high-resolution wallpapers from digital artists. However, its subscription model has raised eyebrows. The Panels Plus subscription, priced at $49.99 per year or $11.99 per month, allows users to download all wallpapers in high resolution. Users who choose the free version are limited to a smaller selection of wallpapers in standard definition, with the added annoyance of having to view two ads.
Many users took to social media to express their frustration. They criticized the excessive ads, inadequate security that made it easy for users to download wallpapers for free, and the high initial price. Some even compared the initial reaction to Panels to that of Humane AI Pin and Rabbit R1, products that MKBHD reviewed and gave poor ratings.
The backlash against Panels has prompted MKBHD to address user concerns, highlighting the importance of user feedback and the need to build trust and transparency. While the app’s future remains uncertain, MKBHD’s commitment to addressing user concerns suggests a willingness to adapt and improve the user experience.
