Marques Brownlee, or MKBHD as he is widely known, stands as a titan in the tech review space, boasting nearly 20 million YouTube subscribers. His insightful analyses of the newest gadgets have earned him a reputation for both expertise and candor. However, his latest venture—a wallpaper app called Panels—has not garnered the enthusiastic reception he might have hoped for.
Brownlee has never shied away from delivering honest critiques, even when it means ruffling feathers. His reviews of products such as the Humane Ai Pin and Rabbit R1 have sparked significant discussion in the tech community, often leading to debates about the impact of his opinions on startups. Critics have at times labeled him a “startup killer,” suggesting that his forthright assessments could hinder the growth of smaller companies. This reputation has become a double-edged sword, as evidenced by recent events surrounding his app launch.
The Panels app is designed to offer users a curated collection of high-resolution wallpapers, a project Brownlee expressed excitement about. In a tweet announcing its launch, he stated, “I’m so pumped to be launching this app! People have asked where I get wallpapers FOREVER, so this is the answer, now and forever: PANELS!” Unfortunately, the enthusiasm didn’t translate into positive feedback. The app has faced a barrage of criticism across various platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), where users have voiced their discontent.
Comments from users reflect a growing sentiment that Panels lacks the polish and functionality expected from a product associated with such a prominent reviewer. One user noted, “This app is trash; you can get better, high-res wallpapers for free,” while another lamented the app’s design, suggesting it seemed like “something that’s been on the App Store already that you slapped your name on.” The response has been overwhelmingly negative, with accusations of the app being a cash grab. For a subscription fee of nearly $50 annually or about $12 monthly, many feel they are not getting their money’s worth, especially given that free wallpapers are available only after watching ads.
Interestingly, Jesse Lyu, the CEO of Rabbit R1, joined in the social media commentary by sharing a meme that depicted Brownlee humorously as the Grim Reaper, a nod to his reputation for delivering harsh reviews. The meme resonated with some who feel that Brownlee’s critiques often overshadow the efforts of creators and innovators in the tech space.
In light of the backlash, Brownlee has been proactive in addressing user concerns. In a follow-up tweet, he acknowledged the feedback and promised improvements, particularly regarding privacy disclosures and ad frequency. He emphasized that the broad data requests users had seen were largely driven by ad networks and not reflective of the app’s actual intent. Brownlee’s acknowledgment of the criticism and his intent to make changes could be a pivotal moment for the app, as he seeks to salvage its reputation.
This situation serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by content creators who venture into entrepreneurship. Brownlee’s previous collaborations, such as his sneaker line with Atoms and accessories with Ridge, showcased his ability to innovate and engage with his audience. However, Panels is a different beast altogether, requiring a balance between user expectations and the realities of app development.
In the dynamic world of tech, where consumer expectations can shift rapidly, the road ahead for Brownlee’s Panels app remains uncertain. Yet, with his established credibility and a commitment to improvement, there’s potential for this venture to evolve into something that resonates more deeply with users. As the app continues to develop, it will be intriguing to see how Brownlee navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, particularly in a landscape where every move is scrutinized by a dedicated following.
