Marques Brownlee, a popular American tech YouTuber known as MKBHD, recently launched his wallpaper app, Panels, which offers high-quality digital wallpapers created by talented artists. However, the steep pricing of $50 per year or $12 per month and the presence of ads on the free version have sparked criticism from fans and users. Many have pointed out that while Brownlee is an expert at reviewing products, his own attempt at building one has fallen short of expectations.
MKBHD's Wallpaper App, Panels, Draws Criticism for High Pricing
Popular tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee, known as MKBHD, recently launched his new wallpaper app, Panels. The app offers premium digital wallpapers created by talented artists. However, the app has faced criticism from fans and users due to its steep pricing and the presence of ads in its free version.
Pricing Concerns
Panels is available for a $50 annual subscription or a $12 monthly subscription. Many users have expressed concerns about the high cost, especially considering that other popular wallpaper apps offer comparable content at significantly lower prices.
Ads in Free Version
The free version of Panels features advertisements, which has also drawn criticism from users. Some have argued that the presence of ads detracts from the app's overall experience and makes it feel like a monetized cash grab.
Lack of Innovation
Critics have also pointed out that Panels offers little innovation compared to existing wallpaper apps. The app's main feature is essentially a curated collection of high-quality wallpapers, which is already available in numerous other apps.
Brownlee's Expertise
While Brownlee is widely recognized as an expert at reviewing tech products, some have questioned his credentials when it comes to developing his own app. Critics argue that Brownlee's experience may not translate directly to building a successful software product.
Background
Marques Brownlee is a 31-year-old American technology reviewer and YouTuber. He has over 15 million subscribers on his MKBHD channel, where he covers the latest gadgets, smartphones, and tech trends. Brownlee is known for his in-depth reviews and clear explanations of complex tech concepts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is Panels so expensive?
Brownlee has not publicly stated the specific reasons behind the app's pricing. However, some speculate that the cost of licensing the wallpapers from artists and maintaining the app's servers may contribute to the high price.
2. Will Panels ever offer a lifetime subscription?
Brownlee has indicated that he is considering offering a lifetime subscription in the future, but there is no confirmed timeline.
3. Will the free version of Panels eventually become ad-free?
Brownlee has not ruled out the possibility of removing ads from the free version in the future, but he has not made any concrete commitments.
4. What makes Panels different from other wallpaper apps?
Panels' main differentiator is its focus on high-quality, hand-picked wallpapers from talented artists. However, the app's core functionality is similar to many other existing wallpaper apps.
5. Is Panels worth the price?
Whether Panels is worth the price is ultimately up to the individual user's preferences and budget. Some users may find the premium wallpapers worth the cost, while others may prefer to stick with free alternatives.
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