Patreon Enables Web Payments Following Apple-Epic Court Ruling

Patreon has launched an updated version of its iOS app that allows users to make purchases through the web, providing payment options beyond Apple’s in-app purchase system. This update comes in response to a landmark court ruling involving Apple and Epic Games, which requires Apple to permit app developers to link to alternative payment methods without imposing its commission fees.

Previously, Patreon users subscribing to creators’ membership plans on iOS had to use Apple’s in-app purchases, which include a commission fee. The new app version (125.5.0) introduces a checkout experience where users can pay via Patreon’s website using credit cards, Venmo, PayPal, or Apple Pay. The option to pay through Apple’s in-app system remains but is de-emphasized in the interface.

This shift is expected to redirect more payments through Patreon’s web platform, allowing creators to retain a larger share of their earnings. The update is currently rolling out to U.S. users and should be visible within 24 hours of app update installation.

The change follows a U.S. court ruling on April 30 that prohibits Apple from blocking developers from linking to external payment options while still collecting commissions. Apple has since updated its App Store guidelines to comply, enabling apps like Spotify, Amazon Kindle, and now Patreon to offer external payment links.

Patreon has expressed optimism that this ruling will allow greater flexibility in supporting creators, particularly regarding legacy billing models. Previously, Apple had mandated that all creators switch to Apple’s subscription billing by November 2025 or face removal from the App Store. Patreon now believes this deadline may no longer apply, though creators still need to use subscription billing to accept payments via the iOS app at present.

This development marks a significant evolution in app payment ecosystems, empowering creators with more control over revenue streams and reducing dependency on platform commissions. It also signals a broader industry shift toward more open and flexible payment processing options within mobile apps.

For developers and businesses, adapting to these changes will be critical to optimizing monetization strategies and maintaining compliance with evolving platform policies. Leveraging web-based payment integrations can enhance user experience and increase creator revenue retention.