The popular retro game emulator, Delta, has updated its iOS app to include direct links to its Patreon page, allowing users to support the project without Apple’s standard commission. This change comes after a recent U.S. court ruling mandated Apple to permit external payment links within apps .
Previously, Apple imposed a 30% fee on in-app purchases and discouraged external payment methods. The court’s decision now enables developers like Delta’s creator, Riley Testut, to offer alternative payment options directly within their apps. In Delta’s settings, users can now tap “Join our Patreon” to access exclusive features and support tiers starting at $3 per month.
Testut highlighted the benefits of this approach, noting that Patreon offers more flexibility, including better customer support and refund capabilities, compared to Apple’s in-app purchase system . This move not only benefits Delta but also sets a precedent for indie developers seeking sustainable monetization models outside traditional app store constraints.
As the App Store landscape evolves, Delta’s integration of Patreon support exemplifies the newfound opportunities for developers to engage with their user base directly and retain a larger share of their revenue.
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