Patreon has done a really great job turning that around with their new iOS app update. Users will be able to link to their platform of choice without getting hit with the toll of Apple’s in-app purchases. This amendment is meant to address the recent change made by the U.S. App Store. At present, developers are able to add links that lead consumers to their own websites to handle payment processing.
And for Delta users, linking to their Patreon accounts is now easier than ever. Members can select from multiple tiers of membership, starting with monthly or yearly recurring charges. This no-nonsense approach cuts through the usual minutiae and makes payment the easy part. It further allows creators to receive more of their income by no longer requiring them to pay a cut to Apple.
It’s a huge win for independent content creators and all businesses that depend on recurring subscription revenue. By opening the door to direct payments, Patreon has taken one huge step toward leading the charge for new creators’ rights and financial independence.
Riley Testut, the developer behind widely popular developer, shared his excitement over this new development, saying,
“We can now freely mention our Patreon without giving Apple 27% of donations.” – Riley Testut
This kind of sentiment across the space indicates a larger industry trend towards healthier terms for developers and creators in general. Adding direct linking to Patreon from the mobile app gives users more freedom. Simply put, it allows creators to better connect with their audience.
As with so many other aspects of app monetization today, companies such as Patreon lead the way for others to follow. The company continues to update its iOS app with creative-focused features. This forward-looking strategy marks their serious intent to lead the way through the thorny thickets of platform regulation.
Delta’s not the only one to do that. A number of other companies have similarly changed their apps to comply with the newly changed policies of the U.S. App Store. This united action is unprecedented in the changing balance of power. Today, more companies than ever want to take advantage of direct payment alternatives to increase their bottom line.
The impacts of these improvements go well beyond the increased cost savings realized right away. When they’re not dependent on platform-imposed fees, creators can spend their time and resources building great content and increasing their audiences. This can unlock a robust new ecosystem of indie creators. They will be able to grow in prosperity, without being crushed by the weight of unnecessary fiscal obligations.
While this trend continues to play out, it is still very important for developers to keep a watchful eye on what’s happening inside of the app marketplace. The ability to adapt quickly to changes in policy can be a decisive factor in maintaining competitiveness and achieving long-term success.