Patreon Adapts iOS App to Apple's External Billing Rules

Patreon Updates iOS App for External Payments

Following Apple's updated App Store guidelines, Patreon has modified its iOS app to utilize an external browser for payment processing. This change impacts U.S. users, who will now be redirected to Patreon's website to complete their transactions.

This adjustment allows Patreon to avoid Apple's 30% commission on in-app purchases. While adding extra steps for users, it offers Patreon greater control over its revenue.

Background on the Change

This update comes after a court ruling in the Apple vs. Epic Games case, which compelled Apple to allow external payment options in U.S. apps. Patreon initially integrated a web-based checkout within its app. However, following Apple's feedback, Patreon has now transitioned to opening the checkout process in an external browser.

Previously, Apple's restrictions limited creators using legacy billing models, such as per-creation or first-of-the-month billing. This update expands payment options for these creators, allowing them to accept payments directly through the Patreon iOS app.

Patreon states that approximately 95% of active creators already utilize subscription billing, which offers features like free trials and discounts. This change addresses the needs of the remaining 5% and provides them with more flexibility.

Impact on Creators and Users

This new flexibility eliminates Patreon's previous deadline to transition all creators to Apple's in-app purchase system. The deadline, originally set for November 2025, was a result of Apple's previous stricter guidelines.

“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 shared in a blog post.

U.S. users will soon be able to purchase memberships from creators using these legacy billing models directly within the iOS app, at the price set by the creator for their tiers. Creators outside the U.S. will still need to offer subscription billing for new memberships.

This update represents a significant shift in how Patreon operates on iOS, providing more control over its billing and offering creators more flexibility in how they manage their memberships.