MrBeast removes controversial AI thumbnail tool just five days after launch following severe backlash
(Image via X/@MrBeast)
In classic internet whiplash fashion, MrBeast launched a flashy new AI tool on June 22, 2025, and killed it just five days later. What was supposed to be a game-changing tool for YouTubers quickly turned into a PR nightmare.
Backlash hit hard, creators were fuming, and now, the biggest YouTuber in the world is walking it all back.
The AI Tool That Backfired Fast
So here's the tea: MrBeast, through his creator-assist platform
Viewstats
, dropped an AI thumbnail generator to help smaller YouTubers make click-worthy thumbnails. It promised 'plug in a prompt, get viral-worthy images,' and even let users insert their own faces over popular creators.
— FocusedSloth (@FocusedSloth)
Almost instantly, the internet came for him.
The biggest red flag? The tool allegedly lets users replicate real creators' content and branding without their permission. JackSepticEye was one of the first to rage, calling out the use of his logo. Fans and creators alike started slamming the tool for being exploitative and anti-artist.
Gone in Five Days
By June 27, just five days after launch, MrBeast posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) saying, 'I thought people were gonna be pretty excited about it.
I definitely missed the mark.' That's when he officially shut down the tool and removed all promo materials.
Instead of defending the idea, he acknowledged the feedback, owned the misstep, and promised change. 'Going forward, there is no AI thumbnail tool,' he stated. Now, if you go to the Viewstats site, you're no longer met with AI-generated thumbnails—you're redirected to a page featuring
real
thumbnail artists for hire.
MrBeast Responds and Pulls the Plug
To his credit, MrBeast didn't double down or make excuses. He apologized, clarified that none of his in-house thumbnail team would be replaced by AI, and emphasized his respect for the creative community.
'I care more than any of you could imagine about the YouTube community,' he said. 'And I don't take that responsibility lightly.'
Instead of defending the AI tool, he used the moment to uplift human creators, almost turning the backlash into a way to promote actual artist work. Respect.
What's Next?
This whole situation is a textbook example of how even the biggest internet celebs can fumble, and how fast the creator community reacts when something feels off. While AI tools are popping up left and right, this was a reminder: there's a fine line between
helpful tech
and
crossing ethical lines
.
MrBeast may have messed up, but he pulled back fast, took accountability, and tried to make it right. Will the internet forgive him? Probably. But next time, maybe test the waters before diving in headfirst with a paid tool that uses other creators' content. In the world of YouTube, respect for the grind still matters.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Travis Kelce's offseason project could become the NFL's next global spectacle as his tight end revolution goes international
Travis Kelce's TEU could go global, says longtime producer (Getty Images) Travis Kelce 's Tight End University in Nashville is considering expanding globally after five successful years there. The event, co-founded by Kelce to elevate the tight end position, has grown significantly, attracting numerous participants and sponsors, with all profits directed towards charity. Alongside Taylor Swift , Kelce also enjoyed a private dinner in NYC. Travis Kelce's tight end university gears up for global takeover As usual, Quarterbacks dominate NFL headlines, but Travis Kelce, the Chiefs' star tight end, is changing that. A three-time Super Bowl champion, podcaster, and fashion enthusiast, Kelce co-founded Tight End University (TEU). He passionately believes tight ends are the "best position on the field" because "we're all the most relatable guys. We're all the plumber, the utility guy, the landscaper, the electrician. You need a guy. We are the guy, and that's why I love playing tight end." TEU began in 2021 as a small gathering for overlooked pass-catchers but has blossomed into a major annual event with 75 participants, live TV, sponsors, concerts, and even Taylor Swift. Kelce's dedication is reflected in this expansion, mirrored by producer Peter Raskin. TEU might soon go global, Raskin revealed. "We might look at other cities moving forward," he told Front Office Sports, citing interest from "other cities asking us to bring the event there, and other countries." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo This hints at TEU becoming a traveling exhibit. The financial model is splendid: sponsors cover all costs for invited NFL tight ends, with any surplus going to charity—$2.5 million donated in four years. Kelce himself acts as a coach, sharing wisdom on route running. "So really work and find that shoulder-over-toe and you can really get in and out of their precise, with a purposeful, powerful foundation." This anticipates a future coaching role. Also Read: Travis Kelce's ex Kayla Nicole throws subtle shade at Taylor Swift with bold date night fashion choice After TEU, Kelce and Taylor Swift enjoyed a private dinner in NYC, with Austin, her brother. Spotted at the exclusive San Vicente West Village, enjoying a quiet evening, with their no-photo policy. Taylor wore a $3,500 Balmain dress; Kelce chose a crisp white shirt and black pants. This illustrates their relaxed yet powerful image, truly defining their offseason. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Hindustan Times
Realme 15 confirmed to launch soon in India, AI features teased: Details
The Realme 15 series is soon going to be available in the Indian market, and the company has confirmed this through a teaser. The details reveal that both the Realme 15 5G, as well as the Realme 15 Pro 5G, are going to be available in India. However, if you are wondering if there is a release date, there is not one, as it has not been announced. Here is everything we know about the new models so far. Read on. Realme 15 series is expected soon in India.(Realme) Also Read: Lenovo Yoga Tab Plus with 3K display confirmed to launch in India; specs revealed on Amazon The company's teaser on X, formerly known as Twitter, details that the Realme 15 Pro, as well as the 15 5G, are going to be coming soon with the tagline, "Everything Plus, Now in Pro.'And 'AI Party Phone." Now, it is quite vague as to what "AI party phone" means, but it does suggest that the phones could be big on AI features. Having said that Realme's branding does suggest that features previously reserved for the Plus line of Realme phones could finally make their way to the Realme 15 Pro. At the very same time, the phones have always been mid-rangers, so that is worth keeping in mind as well. Reports suggest that the phone could be offered with up to 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage. As for other specifications, reports do mention that they could get the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, alongside a triple camera system, and a 6300 mAh battery. Talking specifally about the Realme 15 Pro (model RMX5101), it could be vailable in four variants, ranging from 8GB RAM with 128GB storage to 12GB RAM with 512GB storage. Having said that, these specifications should be taken with a grain of salt considering Realme is yet to reveal the details officially. Realme 15 Series Release Date (Expected) Considering June is almost over and Realme is only teasing the phone so far, it would not be out of the ordinary for the 15 series to launch in the month of July or perhaps early August. It should be noted that Realme's previous series, the Realme 14 Pro and 14 Pro+, were launched in January of this year, making it only six months since their release. MOBILE FINDER: iPhone 16 LATEST Price In India
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
NHL player Jeremy Swayman joins girlfriend Alessandra for romantic Florence wedding trip with family in stunning photo recap
NHL-Jeremy Swayman of team USA (Credit: Getty Images) Jeremy Swayman's girlfriend Alessandra turned her Instagram feed into a Florence travelogue. This captures moments that blended elegance with warmth, and the couple traveled to Italy with Swayman's family to attend a friend's wedding, and Alessandra seized the opportunity to document the trip with a series of aesthetically pleasing images. Her posts showed the rolling beauty of Tuscany, grand architecture, and the playful romance between the Bruins' goalie and herself. One post stood out as particularly heartwarming, a snapshot of Jeremy Swayman with his arms wrapped around Alessandra as they shared a laugh in a quiet alley. The post gave fans a rare candid view of their dynamic beyond hockey life. Jeremy Swayman's girlfriend Alessandra recaps Florence trip with beau (Credit: Instagram/@ Jeremy Swayman's family bonds on display in Italy trip This wasn't just a romantic escape. Jeremy Swayman's Italian holiday was deeply rooted in family moments. With his parents and close relatives by his side, the Florence trip evolved into a celebration of both friendship and kinship. Alessandra's captions suggested a strong comfort between her and the Swayman clan. They are more than just a travel companion; they are a part of the family experience. Romantic snaps of Jeremy Swayman and Alessandra turn heads online While the wedding was the trip's central event, it was the soft chemistry between Jeremy Swayman and Alessandra that drew attention across social media, and their affectionate poses, thoughtful wardrobe choices, and carefree smiles sparked fan conversations online. Alessandra's ability to share snippets of their connection. That too without overexposing their privacy made the trip feel both aspirational and genuine, and it was a refreshing glimpse into a public figure's private moment, polished, personal, and summer-spirited. Jeremy Swayman and Alessandra's Florence trip wasn't just another celebrity vacation. It was a heartfelt mix of romance, family time, and style, carefully shared through images that gave fans a rare glimpse into their off-season life. Also Read: Mitch Marner says emotional goodbye to Toronto as Maple Leafs prepare for new era without star winger Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
