Tim Stokely Introduces a Competitor to OnlyFans

The cofounder of OnlyFans, Tim Stokely, is embarking on a new journey.

His new venture is a subscription-based service known as Subs, designed to host content suitable for all audiences, including adult material.

The Unique Edge of Subs Over OnlyFans

Subs aims to differentiate itself by simplifying the process for content creators to grow their fan base and transition users from free to paid content offerings.

Stokely's strategy includes features reminiscent of other social media platforms, such as an Explore section similar to Instagram and a Shows feature akin to YouTube. These will be free from advertisements and designed to funnel viewers towards paid content like subscriptions, private interactions, and one-on-one conversations. Creators often mention that establishing an audience on OnlyFans is challenging, leading them to depend on other networks for traffic.

While private chats are available through services like Cameo, OnlyFans does not offer them. Stokely views this as a promising opportunity to generate "substantial income."

The Journey from OnlyFans to Subs

OnlyFans was co-founded by Stokely, his sibling Thomas, and their father Guy in 2016. The enterprise was later acquired by Leo Radvinsky in 2018. After stepping down from his CEO position in 2021, Stokely remained connected to the industry, although he initially took time off for personal endeavours such as spending time with friends, attending football matches with his father, and traveling.

Despite his brief hiatus, the allure of the industry was strong, as continuous contact from creators reignited his enthusiasm. During his time away, Stokely dabbled in other business pursuits, including joining an airline startup as a director in 2024, and attempting to acquire TikTok through his co-founded startup, Zoop, partnering with a cryptocurrency initiative.

Challenges and Opportunities for Subs

Integrating both adult and non-adult content presents challenges, notably the restriction of explicit material from major app stores, necessitating the use of a web-based application.

Stokely argues that the web app model benefits creators by bypassing app store commission fees.

Nevertheless, Subs must contend with established platforms like Patreon and Substack, which similarly leverage web integration to avoid fees while containing their own apps, potentially diminishing Subs' attractiveness to creators outside the adult content sphere.

Subs maintains a similar revenue model to OnlyFans, offering creators 80% of their earnings and additional opportunities for referral commissions.

Currently, the company collaborates with agencies and creators, including podcast hosts, athletes, musicians, and adult performers, to onboard them onto the platform. Initial users include lingerie specialist Saterra St. Jean and podcaster Alex Chisnall.

A New Horizon for Content Creators

With its blend of complimentary and premium content, Stokely is confident Subs will attract creators. He describes the innovative Shows feature as transformative because it neatly presents paid content just after the freely accessible materials, enhancing the creators' offering beyond a mere paywall.

Stokely sums it up: "This isn't just about putting content behind a paywall. We're ensuring creators have everything they need right at their fingertips."