Patreon introduces discovery feed for creators to bypass social media

Patreon is Adding a Discovery Feed to Help Creators Avoid Social Media Platforms

In a significant move, Patreon is enhancing its platform by adding a discovery feed designed to support creators in moving away from mainstream social media platforms. For years, Patreon has positioned itself as a healthier alternative to algorithm-driven social networks, focusing on fostering direct relationships between creators and their supporters.

The upcoming updates feature a new post format called “Quips,” where creators can share non-paywalled updates that include text, photos, or videos. Users will be able to explore these Quips in a redesigned home feed that also showcases recommended posts. While these features might resemble elements of social media, Patreon CEO Jack Conte insists they provide a unique opportunity for creators to grow their audiences organically. He emphasized that the platform offers what mainstream applications like Instagram could have achieved but haven’t.

Conte acknowledges the delicate balance Patreon must maintain between providing valuable social features and maintaining its commitment to creator relations. The membership-only tab will ensure that users see updates from creators they already follow, rather than being overwhelmed by an algorithm.

Early feedback shows promise, with creators testing the beta version of Quips reporting a notable increase in free memberships. However, growth in paid subscriptions remains modest, currently showing a rise of about 5 to 10 percent among those utilizing Quips.

Patreon plans to roll out these features gradually, inviting creators to join a waitlist for early access. As the platform pivots toward enhanced interaction capabilities, creators are encouraged to utilize these tools to avoid reliance on traditional social media, empowering them to cultivate meaningful connections with their audiences. What are your thoughts on Patreon’s new features? Share your comments below!