Last month, MKBHD introduced his new wallpaper application, which quickly faced a significant backlash regarding its pricing and advertisement model. In an effort to ease the frustrations of his followers, the well-known YouTuber took to X to provide some clarifications, though his response did not achieve the desired effect.
Part of building in public is getting mass feedback immediately, which is pretty dope. Almost exactly like publishing a YouTube video.
First thing we’re doing is fixing the excessive data disclosures, as people rightfully brought up. For transparency, we’d never actually ask for…
— Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) September 24, 2024
Following feedback, the app has been modified to enhance user experience, as noted by The Verge, although its pricing remains unchanged. Many users pointed out that the cost feels excessive for a wallpaper application, especially when high-resolution images can be sourced freely from the internet.
Previously, users of Panels were required to subscribe for $11.99 monthly or $49.99 annually for high-resolution images. While a free version existed, it initially mandated users to view two ads before downloading standard-definition wallpapers. This requirement has now been eliminated, allowing users to access standard wallpapers without ad interruptions.
Furthermore, the app has removed advertisements from its wallpaper discovery section and expanded its artwork collection. Even with these improvements, the pricing continues to stir debate. Those opting for the monthly subscription find themselves paying over $90 more annually compared to the yearly payment option. Fans have expressed that the pricing model feels “icky,” suggesting it leans more towards a profit-driven approach rather than providing the quality experience expected from MKBHD’s offerings.
It is hardly surprising that the pricing structure didn’t change. MKBHD mentioned in his tweet that “It’s our own personal challenge to work to deliver that kind of value for the premium version.” This indicates his intention to retain the current pricing model, but establishing sufficient value in a wallpaper app that justifies the cost is likely to be a difficult task.
