Patreon is introducing live streaming capabilities for select creators, planning a wider rollout this summer as the platform expands its direct-to-fan offerings amid growing creator dissatisfaction with algorithm-dependent platforms.

New Streaming Features Target Creator-Fan Connection

The membership platform now allows creators to stream live video directly through Patreon’s mobile app or desktop interface. The feature includes built-in chat, moderation tools, and integration with popular streaming software, including OBS and Streamlabs.

Creators can offer streams to all members, limit access to paid subscribers, or make them available to free members. The platform also supports recording broadcasts for later distribution or one-time purchases.

“Thousands of creators” will participate in the early access test, Patreon spokesperson Adiya Taylor told The Verge. “We’re working with a diverse group of creators who have frequently used our existing community chat and video tools, as well as those who have used off-platform live video.”

Image source: Patreon

Direct-to-Fan Market Shows Significant Growth

According to a recent Patreon report, which surveyed 1,000 creators and 2,000 fans, 78% of creators report that algorithms impact what they create, while 56% say algorithms prevent them from exploring creative passions.

The data shows that creators earn 40 times more annual revenue per fan on Patreon than on TikTok. The average annual income per fan reaches $52, while income per paying member hits $110. The company projects the direct-to-fan market to grow from $194 billion in 2025 to $237 billion by 2027.

Image source: Patreon

Creator Priorities Shift Toward Community Building

The research indicates creator priorities have changed significantly since 2020, moving away from metrics like follower counts and engagement rates toward quality of creative work, fan relationships, and financial stability.

Patreon’s earlier research from June 2024 showed that over 90% of creators with highly active communities earn at least $1,000 monthly. Since introducing free membership and community chat features last year, creator communities on the platform have doubled.

The platform joins Substack in expanding live video capabilities, with Substack having introduced similar features last September before a wider rollout in January.