In a significant shake-up within the design community, Gleb Kuznetsov, a renowned designer and founder of the San Francisco-based design studio Milkinside, has been permanently banned from Dribbble. This action comes in the wake of Dribbble’s recent policy changes aimed at monetizing client-designer interactions on its platform. In response, Kuznetsov is channeling his efforts into developing a new, AI-driven platform tailored for designers.
Dribbble’s Policy Shift and Its Impact
Dribbble, traditionally a hub for designers to showcase their portfolios and connect with potential clients, announced a pivotal policy change on March 17, 2025. The new terms mandated that all client communications and transactions initiated through Dribbble must be conducted exclusively within its ecosystem, ensuring the platform receives a commission on these dealings. This move was positioned as a measure to protect designers from non-payment and to sustain Dribbble’s operations.
However, this policy has been met with resistance from many in the design community. Kuznetsov, who had been a prominent figure on Dribbble with over 210 million followers, found himself at odds with these new regulations. He shared his contact information directly with prospective clients, bypassing Dribbble’s mandated channels. As a result, his account was deleted without prior warning or the opportunity for appeal. Expressing his frustration, Kuznetsov stated, I brought 100,000+ monthly users. 15 years of work. 12,000+ shots. All instantly deleted, because a client asked for my email. One warning. No appeal.
The Birth of an AI-Powered Alternative
Undeterred by his expulsion, Kuznetsov has embarked on creating a new platform that not only serves as an alternative to Dribbble but also integrates artificial intelligence to enhance the design process. He emphasizes that this venture is not intended to be a mere replica of Dribbble. Instead, it aims to be a comprehensive resource for designers, leveraging AI to inspire and assist in creation.
While there has been considerable debate about AI models training on creatives’ work without compensation, Kuznetsov believes that AI can be a valuable tool for designers. He envisions the technology elevating the quality of design work, enabling creators to produce content that was previously unimaginable without specific skill sets. Kuznetsov anticipates having a minimum viable product (MVP) ready within three to four months.
A Community-Centric Approach
Kuznetsov’s primary motivation is to serve the design community. He acknowledges the challenges designers face in the current landscape and aims to provide a platform that genuinely supports their growth and creativity. He advises designers to be strategic about where they invest their time and efforts, emphasizing the importance of diversifying their presence across platforms.
The Broader Implications for Design Platforms
Dribbble’s enforcement of its new policies has sparked a broader conversation about the balance between platform monetization and user autonomy. The emergence of Kuznetsov’s AI-driven platform underscores a recurring theme in the tech industry: when platforms tighten control, users often respond by creating alternatives. This development may prompt established platforms to reassess their policies to retain talent and maintain their user base.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Launching a new platform in a competitive field presents its own set of challenges. Building a user base requires not only innovative features but also trust and community engagement. Kuznetsov’s emphasis on integrating AI into the design process could attract designers seeking advanced tools to enhance their work. However, sustaining such a model will necessitate identifying alternative revenue streams that do not alienate the core audience.
Looking Forward
As Kuznetsov’s platform prepares for launch, the design community watches closely. This initiative serves as a reminder of the delicate balance in digital marketplaces between monetization and user empowerment. The success or failure of this new venture could influence the future direction of design platforms, potentially ushering in a new era that prioritizes creativity and community over commercialization.
