Polar v1.0 launches as a lower-fee, open-source monetization platform for developers

Polar v1.0 has officially launched, offering a lower-fee, open-source monetization platform designed for developers. The platform aims to support open-source developers, indie hackers, builders, and maintainers by enabling them to get paid. As an official GitHub funding option, Polar simplifies fundraising for developers, profiling itself as an alternative to services like Lemon Squeezy.

The updated platform provides various monetization methods, including donations, crowdfunding, memberships, digital products, and SaaS. It also includes built-in product and subscription benefits such as license keys, file downloads, private GitHub repository access, and Discord invites. Developers can make use of Polar’s API, Webhooks, OAuth, and SDKs for custom integrations to better suit their needs.

Polar acts as the Merchant of Record, managing sales tax and EU VAT for developers. The platform has reduced its fees to 4% + 40¢ per order, including Stripe payment fees, which represents a 35-40% fee reduction and makes it 20% cheaper than other merchant of record options.