Apple’s Commission Policy
Apple receives a 30% commission on in‑app purchases and subscriptions, but this drops to 15% for a subscription that has been ongoing for more than a year.
Apple considers payments from supporters to creators on Patreon to be digital goods that it is entitled to receive a commission on.
Patreon’s Billing Transition
Apple initially told Patreon that its creators must move to the App Store's in‑app purchase system by November 2025, or else Patreon would risk removal from the App Store, but the deadline was pushed back.
According to TechCrunch, only 4% of Patreon creators are still using the platform's legacy billing system, with the rest having already switched over.
Current Creator Landscape
- 4% of creators remain on legacy billing.
- 96% have transitioned to Apple’s in‑app purchase system.
- Creators now face Apple’s 30% (or 15% after one year) commission on supporter payments.
Implications for Creators
Creators must weigh the higher commission against the exposure and convenience of the App Store ecosystem. The extended deadline provides additional time to adjust revenue models and inform supporters of any changes.
Related Apple Updates
Apple’s four new iPhones feature more differences between the latest models than ever before, including upgrades to the A17 or newer chip with Apple Intelligence support and a new N1 wireless networking chip. iOS 26 brings a comprehensive set of new features, and a squarish 7‑inch screen is slated for controlling smart home products, listening to music, making video calls, and more.