No one is immune to online criticism, and this is especially true if you have a massive following on social media.
Marques Brownlee, better known as MKBHD, has experienced this firsthand over the past few weeks after the launch of his Panels Wallpaper app.
Despite being one of the most respected figures in the tech community, his new venture into the app space didn’t go as planned.
The Story Behind the Panels Wallpaper App
For years, MKBHD’s audience has asked where he sources his stunning wallpapers from. In response, MKBHD launched the Panels app to provide a one-stop platform where his viewers could access the wallpapers he had featured in his videos.
A key selling point was that this would also support the talented artists behind the wallpapers.
However, the launch didn’t go as smoothly as anticipated. The initial version of the app disappointed many users, myself included.
Its free-to-use model was marred by too many ads, and users who opted for the free version could only download wallpapers in SD quality.
To get full-resolution access and remove the ads, users were expected to pay $49.99 per year or $11.99 per month—a price tag many felt was too steep.
Addressing the Criticism: MKBHD’s Response
The backlash was swift. Users, many of them long-time fans, voiced their displeasure with the app’s pricing and ad-heavy experience.
While the app’s goal of supporting artists was well-intentioned, it was overshadowed by user frustration over its execution. MKBHD, to his credit, acknowledged the feedback and promised improvements.
Just two and a half weeks later, MKBHD released a video detailing significant changes made to the Panels Wallpaper app. One of the most notable updates was the introduction of a more affordable $1.99 per month “Standard” subscription.
This tier provides users with ad-free access to full-resolution single wallpapers and exclusive app icons.
New Subscription Tiers: More Affordable Options
The original subscription model, now rebranded as the “Unlimited” tier, still exists but offers more perks. In addition to what the Standard tier provides, the Unlimited plan includes access to all wallpaper collections and early access to new content.
This tier is designed for those who frequently want to download multiple collections, which are individually priced between $4.99 and $10.99.
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Importantly, users on the free tier now have a much better experience. They can download full-resolution (4K or 8K) wallpapers after watching just one 30-second ad, a significant reduction from the initial requirement of two ads.
Additionally, all non-collection wallpapers in 1080p are now available for free without the need to watch ads, and the in-feed ads have been completely removed.
Privacy Concerns Addressed
Another point of contention was the app’s initial request for extensive permissions, including location data, usage data, and more.
Users were perplexed by why a wallpaper app would require so much personal information. In response, MKBHD clarified that many of the permission requests were unnecessary and the result of ad network suggestions.
He admitted that this was a mistake, which has now been corrected. The app no longer requires unnecessary permissions to function.
What’s Next for the Panels Wallpaper App?
Looking ahead, MKBHD hinted at regular updates and new features for the Panels app. In his latest announcement, he committed to releasing new artwork every Friday, starting from October 18.
While there may be some delays, fans can look forward to these weekly “drops.” The app will continue to receive updates on both the Play Store and App Store, with further details shared on Panels’ X (formerly Twitter) account.
MKBHD’s willingness to listen to user feedback and implement meaningful changes shows his commitment to improving the user experience.
With these updates, the Panels Wallpaper app is now a much more appealing option for fans of MKBHD and digital art enthusiasts alike.
