Apple Forces Patreon Creators to Pay 30% Fee on In-App Purchases

The recent announcement from Apple regarding the implementation of a 30 percent commission on in-app purchases for Patreon memberships has sent shockwaves throughout the creator community. This fee will apply not only to new memberships but also to each renewal, significantly impacting the earnings of creators who rely on Patreon to monetize their content.

With Patreon already imposing its own set of platform fees, the additional burden of Apple’s commission will undoubtedly result in creators receiving less compensation for their hard work. The option to automatically increase prices in the iOS app may help offset some of the costs, but ultimately, creators may have to bear the brunt of this new expense.

In the past, Patreon was able to avoid Apple’s 30 percent commission by utilizing alternative payment processors. However, with the recent mandate from Apple, Patreon has no choice but to comply with the in-app payment system. The decision to switch to Apple’s payment system was announced by Patreon last year, with the commission on digital goods coming into effect in early 2024.

Many creators are expressing frustration and concern over the financial implications of Apple’s new policy. Some fear that the increased costs for memberships purchased on the iOS app will deter potential patrons from supporting their work. The choice to absorb the Apple App Store Fee themselves may not be feasible for all creators, further adding to the financial strain.

As the November 4th deadline for the implementation of Apple’s commission approaches, creators are left scrambling to find solutions to mitigate the impact on their earnings. Patreon’s decision to enforce Apple’s payment system marks a significant shift in the platform’s operations, emphasizing the complex relationship between tech giants and creators in the digital landscape.

The imposition of Apple’s 30 percent commission on Patreon memberships purchased through the iOS app highlights the challenges faced by creators in navigating the evolving digital economy. As creators adapt to these changes, the financial implications of Apple’s policy raise questions about the sustainability of monetizing content through platforms like Patreon.