Patreon has launched an updated version of its iOS app that allows fans in the United States to bypass Apple’s payment system when signing up for new memberships, thus avoiding the 30% commission charged by the App Store.
This alternative payment option comes at a crucial time, following a court ruling that requires Apple to allow alternative payment methods without fees.
With this update, app users in the U.S. can choose a new payment method for subscriptions that does not rely on Apple’s in-app purchase system.
Apple appeals the court ruling while Patreon pushes to offer alternative payment methods
However, this option is currently limited to creators who use the subscription billing model, which charges fans at the time of registration instead of at the beginning of each month or per creation.
Martín, product manager at Patreon, explained that while the implementation of these payment options progresses, creators using legacy billing models still cannot accept new sign-ups through the iOS app.
This occurs in a context where the company considers that the deadline of November 2025 for all creators to switch to subscription billing is “on hold” due to the recent legal ruling.
Although the total impact of the ruling is yet to be seen, Patreon emphasizes its commitment to transparency and stability as it adapts to the new regulations. The company is also working to enable alternative payment options for one-time payments in future updates.
Until then, creators who are still using legacy billing models are encouraged to consider transitioning to subscription billing to take advantage of the available growth tools.
Finally, it is worth mentioning that Apple has filed an appeal against the court ruling, which could alter the situation in the future.