Today’s update to Patreon’s iOS app (version 125.5.0) introduces a pretty great new feature – web-based checkout! Today, users can seamlessly pay creators using many different methods like credit cards, Venmo, PayPal, and Apple Pay. The updated checkout experience has been rolled out as the default experience for all users in the U.S. It does, however, deliver a big advance, breaking from earlier billing trends that limited creators to first-of-the-month or per-creation billing.
Until now, Apple forced every developer to use its in-app purchase system. They did not encourage any billing methods beyond subscription models. This was one of the reasons that subscription billing has been taken on by about 95% of active creators on Patreon. This really only addresses the overwhelming majority of creators, about 95%, who have already made the switch. With this new, long overdue update, Patreon is finally suited to truly serve the creators that stick around.
In light of Apple’s guidelines, Patreon must modify its app to ensure that the checkout option opens in an external browser. This change aligns with Apple’s instructions and aims to fulfill the company’s requirements for app functionality. Fail to do that, and you’re in danger of being booted off the App Store. Note that the deadline is coming due in November 2025.
Patreon has been aggressively working with Apple to push for exceptions, while urging a more permanent and flexible solution that would allow creators to bill how they want.
“We’ve stayed in close conversation with Apple and have continued advocating for a more flexible approach — one that gives creators more time and choice,” – Patreon
In response to growing concerns about the effects of their rushed decision, Patreon just announced that the November 2025 deadline will be rescinded. They further announced that they have not established any new milestones yet. This break in the action provides an expanded creative canvas and timeline. They can act prudently and judiciously to determine how and when to move away from the old billing models they’ve known while addressing real problems that have otherwise bogged them down.
With subscription billing, creators can engage their fans with compelling tactics such as free trials and discounts, gifting, and tier repricing. This change will help creators and fans have a more consistent, quality experience on the platform.
As Patreon rolls out these changes, its goal will be to make sure that all creators can take advantage of new billing capabilities with minimal friction. With the updated app functionality, U.S. fans will be able to support their favorite creators at the price set for their tiers directly within the app.
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