Apple’s recent decision to enforce a 30 percent commission on Patreon memberships sold through the iOS app has sent shockwaves through the creator community. This change, set to take effect in November, has left many creators scrambling to find alternative solutions to maintain their revenue streams.
Starting November 4th, 2024, creators on Patreon will be required to use Apple’s in-app payment system for memberships purchased through the iOS app. This means that Apple’s 30 percent commission will apply to both new memberships and renewals, significantly impacting creators’ earnings.
While existing subscriptions and memberships sold through Patreon’s website or Android app will be unaffected, the introduction of Apple’s commission will result in creators receiving less money for their work. In response to this change, Patreon is offering creators the option to automatically increase their prices in the iOS app to help offset the additional costs.
Patreon had previously been able to avoid Apple’s 30 percent commission by using alternative payment processors. However, in 2021, Patreon CEO Jack Conte announced that the platform would need to transition to Apple’s in-app payment system, citing Apple’s policies and review process as the driving force behind the decision.
The implementation of Apple’s commission on Patreon memberships poses significant challenges for creators, particularly those who rely on the platform as a primary source of income. The increased costs associated with the new fee may lead some creators to reconsider their presence on Patreon or explore alternative platforms.
As creators navigate the changes brought about by Apple’s commission on Patreon memberships, it will be crucial for them to carefully evaluate their options and consider how best to adapt to the new payment system. The impact of this decision on the creator economy remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – creators will need to be resilient and resourceful in the face of evolving challenges.
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