YouTube megastar MrBeast has announced significant changes to his AI-powered thumbnail tool following backlash from fellow content creators. The tool, developed in partnership with analytics company Viewstats, allows users to generate thumbnails using AI. It was marketed as a way to boost accessibility and engagement for smaller creators by offering a cost-effective alternative to hiring thumbnail artists. The subscription service is priced at $80 per month.
However, controversy quickly arose when prominent YouTubers like JackSepticEye and PointCrow accused the tool of infringing on creative rights. JackSepticEye voiced his frustration on social media, particularly over the alleged unauthorized use of his logo in promotional material. He posted on X (formerly Twitter), “What the actual fk… and he used my logo… Fk AI.”
PointCrow echoed these concerns, stating that the tool enables the copying of artists’ original work without consent. “You’ve made something that can steal my (and my artists’) hard work without a thought,” he wrote, implying that the AI was likely trained on copyrighted content from YouTube creators without permission. 
The criticism sparked a private conversation between MrBeast and PointCrow. Following their discussion, MrBeast publicly acknowledged the issues raised and committed to revising the tool. He clarified that features like “Faceswap” should be restricted to replacing a user’s own face in their own thumbnails and not be used to manipulate others’ content.
“Faceswap should only be used to swap your face on YOUR thumbnail, obviously not others,” MrBeast said. “My goal is to build tools to level the playing field… not to replace artists.”
While this isn’t the first time MrBeast has been at odds with other creators over tech innovations, the incident renews debate around ethical AI use in content creation. Despite past reconciliations between MrBeast and some critics like JackSepticEye, the backlash reflects broader concerns in the YouTube community over the impact of AI tools on artistic labor.
As of now, the Viewstats platform remains operational, but updates are in development to address the ethical and copyright concerns raised by creators. MrBeast’s response signals a willingness to adapt, though ongoing scrutiny is likely as the role of AI in digital content continues to evolve.
