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Patreon announced on August 12, 2024, that it must transition to Apple's in-app purchasing system or face removal from the App Store. This move comes after years of Patreon operating in a gray area regarding Apple's policies.
Patreon CEO Jack Conte had previously stated in 2021 that the company didn't have "some special contract with Apple" but was able to avoid fees due to users not typically discovering creators through the iOS app. However, Apple's enforcement of its policies has now caught up with the platform.
The changes will take effect in November 2024, with Patreon initiating a 16-month migration process. Creators have two options: raise subscription prices to cover Apple's 30% commission or absorb the cost themselves. Alternatively, they can delay migration until November 2025, but this will prevent them from offering memberships via the iOS app until they adopt Apple's billing.
Patreon expressed frustration with the situation, stating in their blog post, "Unfortunately, because of Apple's timelines and constraints, we can't continue to [roll out changes gradually]." The company emphasized that neither option presented to creators is "ideal."
This development highlights ongoing tensions between app developers and Apple's App Store policies. Epic Games' lawsuit against Apple in 2020 brought these issues to the forefront, though the court ultimately ruled Apple was not a monopolist.
The impact on creators could be substantial. Sarah Johnson, a digital content analyst, notes, "This change may force some creators to reconsider their pricing strategies or even their presence on iOS altogether."
Patreon has advised creators to direct fans to a Help Center article explaining the iOS fees, encouraging transparency about the implications of where subscribers choose to make purchases.
It's worth noting that these changes only apply to the iOS app. Creators can continue offering the same prices on the web and Android platforms without incurring additional fees.
The situation reflects broader industry trends of large tech platforms exerting control over digital marketplaces. As the landscape evolves, content creators and platforms like Patreon must adapt to new economic realities.
As November approaches, the creator community will be watching closely to see how these changes impact their livelihoods and the broader ecosystem of digital content monetization. The outcome may set precedents for how other platforms navigate similar challenges in the future.
