Big changes are coming for creators on the entertainment subscription platform Patreon.
Starting in November, Apple will require Patreon to use the tech giant’s in-app purchasing system and remove all other billing systems from the Patreon iOS app.
As Patreon wrote in a press release on Monday (August 12), this has two “big consequences” for creators. First, Apple will begin imposing its 30% App Store fee on all new subscribers who purchase their memberships through the Patreon iOS app, in addition to charging the same fee on all purchases made in a creator’s Patreon store.
Additionally, any creators currently using first-time monthly or per-work billing will need to switch to subscription billing to continue earning revenue in the iOS app, as it is the only billing type supported by Apple’s in-app purchasing system.
The fee does not affect existing Patreon members, only new memberships purchased through the iOS app starting in November.
“We didn’t choose this path, but we are focusing our resources on making subscription billing even more enjoyable for creators and fans,” Patreon wrote. “This will take time, and we are committed to making it possible for every creator.”
PYMNTS has reached out to Apple for comment but has not yet received a response.
To help creators cope with the changes, Patreon says it has developed an optional tool that can automatically increase creators’ prices (in the iOS app only) to offset the cost of the Apple fee.
“This way, you will continue to earn at least the same amount per membership as on all other platforms,” the press release states. “That means you have the option to decide if you want that. While automatic price increase is the default option, you also have the option to keep your prices and pay the 30 percent fee from your earnings.”
The news comes days after Apple announced it would change its plan to comply with the Digital Markets Act in response to the European Commission’s claim that the company was stifling competition in its App Store. As reported here last week, Apple will allow developers to promote offers for purchases available on a platform of their choice, including another app marketplace, app or website.
