Patreon’s iOS update allows creators to bypass in-app purchases

The latest version of Patreon’s iOS app allows creators in the US to accept payments outside of Apple’s App Store payment system. First seen by TechCrunch, the 125.5.0 update released on Monday enables Patreon creators to link out to web payments, avoiding the up to 30 percent commission that Apple charges on in-app purchases.

This follows the Epic v. Apple ruling on May 1st that blocks Apple from imposing fees on purchases made outside of apps. The expected Patreon update joins Spotify, Amazon’s Kindle, and other apps that can now steer US users to better pricing and deals outside of Apple’s App Store without incurring a 27 percent charge from Apple.

The new Patreon web payment option supports Apple Pay, credit cards, Venmo, and PayPal. The alternative checkout options are currently limited to fans purchasing new memberships and creators using the subscription billing model, which charges fans based on their sign-up date, according to Patreon. The company is working to include alternative checkout options for one-time payments “in a future update.”

“This ruling is a huge moment for creators and fans, and we will continue fighting for a future where creators are in control, communities thrive, and professional creativity is possible for all,” Patreon said in a statement last week.