Patreon, a subscription-focused creator platform, is now allowing creators to assign community members as moderators to help enforce community guidelines. Previously, creators could assign teammates with certain permissions, but this new update allows them to distribute the work of moderating their community as they see fit. This change is similar to Reddit’s system of moderators in subreddits, where each community has its own rules and teams to keep things running smoothly. This shift gives creators more control over developing the specific do’s and don’ts for their communities, allowing for more nuanced and authentic interactions.
In addition to the new moderation feature, Patreon is also expanding its community chat room feature that was announced in 2023. Initially only available on mobile and to paid subscribers, these Discord-like chats will now be accessible via the web. Creators will also have the option to open chat rooms to unpaid Patrons and can record short video responses to fan messages. This expansion of features is part of Patreon’s larger strategy to create more places for fans to interact with creators and to offer a more comprehensive platform for content creators. By targeting additional interactions beyond just subscriptions, Patreon is aiming to become an all-in-one space for creators and their fans.
These updates come as Patreon continues to evolve its product offering beyond subscription-based content. In addition to chat rooms, the platform now allows creators to sell products natively and offers free subscription tiers. This move away from being strictly a subscription app highlights Patreon’s goal of becoming a central hub for creators to engage with their audience across various platforms. By expanding its offerings to include features like chat rooms and product sales, Patreon is positioning itself as a leader in community-funded creators and exclusive content while also catering to other ways fans engage with creators, such as through Discord or Etsy.
By giving creators the ability to appoint moderators and expand chat room features, Patreon is empowering creators to curate and manage their own communities in a way that aligns with their specific values and goals. This shift towards more personalized and unique community interactions reflects Patreon’s commitment to providing a platform that serves the diverse needs of content creators and their fans. As Patreon continues to grow and expand its product offerings, it is shaping itself into a comprehensive space where creators can connect with their audience in a variety of ways, beyond just traditional subscriptions. With these updates, Patreon is cementing its position as a versatile platform that caters to the evolving needs of the online creator community.