Patreon-style subscriptions are the big social media trend of 2021. Twitter, OnlyFans, and even Tumblr are all into subscriptions, which allow readers to pay money to support creators. The platform, of course, gets a cut.

But Instagram, more than any other social network, is uniquely suited to paying followers. This is due to its unique combination of video, photos, commerce and the fact that it is the professional creative version of LinkedIn.

“While Patreon offers a broader coverage of social platforms, Instagram offers unparalleled visibility,” ecommerce brand owner Stephen Light told Lifewire via email.

"There are rumors that the new subscription feature will include perks like a 'special member badge' for becoming a Fan Subscriber. That kind of visible exclusivity is very appealing to people, and given how big Instagram is as a platform, it could have more social value than a Patreon subscription."