In recent times, adult content creators have been increasingly drawn to decentralized versions of popular platforms like OnlyFans and Patreon. This shift has been prompted by payment difficulties experienced by creators and the constant risk of being deplatformed. The rise of Web3 technology has brought about a power shift from intermediaries to content creators, allowing them to take control of their earnings and reduce their dependence on centralized platforms.
In August, creators on Patreon encountered problems when trying to withdraw their earnings from the platform, as payments were flagged as fraudulent by banks. This highlighted the vulnerability of creators on centralized platforms using traditional payment systems. Similarly, many creators have not forgotten when OnlyFans attempted to ban sexually explicit content in 2021, only to reverse the decision shortly thereafter. These incidents have fueled the desire among content creators to explore decentralized alternatives that offer more stability and control over their earnings.
Leon Lee, the founder and CEO of Only1, a decentralized version of OnlyFans built on the Solana blockchain, emphasizes that creators are still at risk of being deplatformed as long as they remain on centralized platforms. According to him, creators are not able to maximize their earning potential and are constantly under the threat of being removed from the platforms they rely on for income. Only1, backed by Animoca Brands, is just one of several startups seeking to revolutionize adult subscription platforms by incorporating blockchain technology.
Another notable example is WetSpace, a crypto-powered adult content platform created by OnlyFans model Allie Rae. Rae established WetSpace as an alternative to OnlyFans, aiming to circumvent the payment pressures imposed by banks on creators. She recognized that the decisions made by platforms like OnlyFans were largely influenced by banks, leading her to explore decentralized solutions that eliminate the need for traditional financial intermediaries.
In a similar vein, Friend.tech has emerged as a decentralized social media platform built on Coinbase’s layer-2 network Base. This platform has attracted numerous creators from OnlyFans who are seeking a decentralized environment free from censorship rules imposed by centralized intermediaries. Leon Lee predicts that more creators will eventually realize the benefits of decentralized platforms and move away from traditional intermediaries, thereby gaining autonomy over their content and ownership rights to their earnings.
Proof of Peach, SEXN, and Keyhole are other adult entertainment platforms that have embraced Web3 technology to provide creators with more control and freedom in monetizing their content. Lee believes that the future holds a mass migration of creators to decentralized platforms where there will be no intermediaries between creators and their fans. Blockchain technology offers an obvious yet untapped potential to empower creators and revolutionize the adult entertainment industry.
As the industry evolves, it is clear that decentralized platforms offer a solution to the challenges faced by adult content creators. With the ability to bypass payment difficulties, avoid censorship, and reduce the risk of being deplatformed, these platforms provide an attractive alternative for creators looking to secure their earnings and maintain control over their content. The shift toward decentralized versions of popular platforms is an important step toward empowering creators in the adult entertainment industry and realizing the full potential of blockchain technology.