Apple Asks Patreon to Shift iOS Billing Externally
Apple has mandated that Patreon adjust its iOS app’s payment process, requiring external transactions to open in a separate browser like Safari or Chrome. This change follows a recent U.S. court ruling in the Epic Games v. Apple case, which allows apps to offer alternative payment options outside Apple’s in-app purchase system .
Background
In response to the court’s decision, Patreon updated its iOS app (version 125.5.0) to provide U.S. users with the ability to make payments via the web using various methods, including credit cards, Venmo, PayPal, and Apple Pay. Initially, these options were accessible within an in-app browser, offering a seamless checkout experience .
However, Apple has now required Patreon to adjust this setup so that the checkout process opens in an external browser. While this introduces an additional step for users, it allows Patreon to bypass Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases, ensuring that more funds go directly to creators .
Implications for Creators and Users
- For Creators: This adjustment means that creators can retain a larger portion of their earnings from U.S.-based fans using the iOS app, as transactions processed through external browsers are not subject to Apple’s commission.
- For Users: Fans making purchases on iOS devices will experience a slightly altered checkout flow, being redirected to an external browser to complete their transactions. Despite the extra step, this process supports creators by reducing the fees deducted from their earnings.
Patreon continues to advocate for more flexible payment options and remains committed to providing transparency and support to its creator community during this transition .
The Core of the Issue
Apple’s policies require apps to use its in-app purchase system, which involves a commission fee. Patreon, a platform that allows creators to gain funding from their fans, has historically tried to avoid these fees. Now, Apple is pushing Patreon to handle transactions outside of the app, directing users to a web browser for payment processing.
Implications for Patreon Creators
Apple has directed Patreon to modify its iOS app’s payment process, requiring that all external transactions now open in an external browser, such as Safari or Chrome, rather than within the app itself. This change follows a recent U.S. court ruling in the Epic Games v. Apple case, which mandates that Apple must allow apps to offer alternative payment options outside of its in-app purchase system .
Background
In response to the court’s decision, Patreon updated its iOS app (version 125.5.0) to provide U.S. users with the ability to make payments via the web using various methods, including credit cards, Venmo, PayPal, and Apple Pay. Initially, these options were accessible within an in-app browser, offering a seamless checkout experience .TechCrunch
However, Apple has now required Patreon to adjust this setup so that the checkout process opens in an external browser. While this introduces an additional step for users, it allows Patreon to bypass Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases, ensuring that more funds go directly to creators .
Implications for Creators and Users
- For Creators: This adjustment means that creators can retain a larger portion of their earnings from U.S.-based fans using the iOS app, as transactions processed through external browsers are not subject to Apple’s commission.
- For Users: Fans making purchases on iOS devices will experience a slightly altered checkout flow, being redirected to an external browser to complete their transactions. Despite the extra step, this process supports creators by reducing the fees deducted from their earnings.
Patreon continues to advocate for more flexible payment options and remains committed to providing transparency and support to its creator community during this transition .
For more information, you can read the full article on TechCrunch.
Apple’s Stance on In-App Purchases
Apple maintains that all digital content sold within apps should use its in-app purchase system to ensure user safety and a consistent experience. However, companies like Patreon argue that these fees cut significantly into creators’ earnings. This situation highlights the ongoing tension between app developers and Apple over app store policies. For additional details, see The Verge’s coverage.
