Tech Influencer Marques Brownlee’s New Wallpaper App Faces Backlash—Here’s His Response

Tech influencer Marques Brownlee, also known as MKBHD, recently faced backlash following the release of his new wallpaper app, Panels.

Launched on both iOS and Android, the app curates high-quality digital wallpapers from various artists. However, the premium pricing model and privacy concerns have stirred some controversy. 

Brownlee quickly responded to the criticisms, addressing them head-on in an effort to assure users that changes are on the way.

Marques Brownlee’s Panels app

Brownlee is a leading voice in tech with nearly 20 million YouTube subscribers, recently making the second-ever TIME100 AI list.

Known for his keen design sense, fans have long admired the sleek wallpapers featured in his reviews, frequently asking where they come from.

The announcement of Panels, his new wallpaper app, generated significant hype, with users eager for the same high-quality, curated content they’ve come to expect from Brownlee’s tech expertise.

The app promises a 50-50 revenue split with artists, which could be an important income stream at a time when generative AI threatens to undercut the value of digital artwork. 

This revenue model aligns with Brownlee’s ongoing efforts to support creators, making Panels a unique platform in an increasingly crowded app market.

However, In order to access high-resolution wallpapers without viewing ads, users need to cough up about $50 per year, or $12 per month.

Addressing Data Privacy Concerns

One of the key issues raised by users is the app’s broad data collection policies, as listed in the app store. 

Critics were concerned about the app potentially tracking user location, internet history, and usage data, according to The Verge.

In response, Brownlee tweeted, “We’d never actually ask for your location, internet history, etc. The data disclosures…are likely too broad and largely driven by what the ad networks suggest. Working to fix that ASAP.”

“Part of building in public is getting mass feedback immediately,” he added, likening the situation to publishing a YouTube video and receiving immediate viewer responses.

Pricing and Ad Frequency Adjustments

Another point of contention is the pricing model of Panels. While users can access lower-resolution wallpapers for free, they are required to view ads. 

“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,” Brownlee said on X. “

In response to criticism, Brownlee promised to reduce the frequency of ads in the free version of the app, and hinted at further improvements to both the free and premium experiences. 

The first step towards this, he noted, would be a series of “weekly Friday drops” of new wallpapers for users.

Feature Image Credit: Vox