A game emulator named Delta is capitalizing on a recent court ruling concerning Apple’s App Store by integrating a direct link to its Patreon membership page within its app. This update, now available to U.S. users, allows Delta to bypass Apple’s commission on subscriptions, opening up new revenue opportunities.
This development follows a significant court decision involving Apple and Fortnite creator Epic Games. Although Apple mostly prevailed in this antitrust case, it was challenged on in-app purchase restrictions. Previously, Apple maintained tight control, discouraging users from external payment options while still collecting a 27% commission, a slight reduction from the standard 30%.
Recently, Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers highlighted Apple’s non-compliance in one aspect, prompting the company to alter its U.S. App Store policies. This change has already been embraced by major companies like Spotify, Amazon Kindle, and Patreon, which now offer direct payment links in their iOS apps.
While larger corporations benefit from retaining a greater share of their revenues, Delta’s update demonstrates a shift that could foster new app monetization strategies. This is particularly significant for indie developers, who often face challenges due to Apple’s hefty commissions.
In the revamped Delta app, users are invited to join the Delta team’s Patreon from the Settings screen, providing an opportunity to subscribe for just $3 per month. This membership grants access to exclusive content and perks.
The app allows users to seamlessly connect their Patreon accounts and select a membership option, whether monthly or annual. Previously, in-app subscription was not direct.
Delta’s creator, Riley Testut, expressed enthusiasm on social media, highlighting the benefit of mentioning their Patreon without incurring Apple’s fees. The update removes the need for previously mandated warnings deterring users from external purchases.
Delta still includes Apple’s in-app purchase method, but it’s hidden under an “Alternative Payment Methods” menu, mirroring Apple’s own tactics for less obvious user options.
For example, turning off Apple’s personalized ads involves navigating through several settings layers. Similarly, to clear app usage data requires a detailed menu journey.
Now that Delta’s update has Apple’s approval, it’s likely other apps with Patreon support will emerge soon, paving the way for more flexible monetization models in the app ecosystem.
