Renowned YouTube product reviewer Marques Brownlee, also known as MKBHD, recently addressed the controversies surrounding the wallpaper downloading app Panels in a video post. He candidly admitted that he and his team “messed up on pricing during the initial launch” when the app debuted at 1,990 Baht per year. He acknowledged that if he were to review the app himself, he would not feel good about it.
In response to criticisms, Panels updated the app by reducing ad displays and improving access to ad-free HD wallpapers. MKBHD further explained that the premium subscription plan (Panels Plus) is still available for users who want to pay to become Power Users, even though it is not very popular. However, Panels Plus now offers a Standard usage plan priced at 79 Baht per month without any ads on all wallpapers. The top-tier plan grants access to every collection and early access to new wallpapers.
Another major point of contention addressed by MKBHD was the excessive user data requests (App Privacy) from the app, which he admitted seemed overwhelming. He clarified that all data requests were due to the “opt-in for future use” and were connected to the AdMob advertising system. He assured that no user data is required, and future plans aim to make the app usable without an account.
Source: The Verge
TLDR: Marques Brownlee, or MKBHD, discussed the criticisms surrounding the Panels app, admitting pricing mistakes, addressing user data concerns, and introducing new subscription plans for better user experiences.
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