[Tade0]

Perhaps merch is the path to successful monetisation of software products?

The Something Awful forums had a $9.95 registration fee. I'm sure markup on those $40 shirts is more than that.

Some game developers also embraced this business model:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/745810196/deep-rock-gal...

Personally I would not spend this much on a plastic mug, but it seems there were enough takers to fund continued development.

[nickthegreek]

It works for bands, it can work for brands. I’d rock a jellyfin shirt for $30.

[arghandugh]

I'm reasonably sure they will be able to fund continued development without merch drops:

https://www.businessinsider.com/x-competitor-bluesky-valuati...

[theschmed]

Funding =/= monentization, and the former presupposes a need for the latter

[arghandugh]

The monetization strategy has already been announced. I’m pointing out that there is no near-term scenario where the bills aren’t getting paid.

[jazzyjackson]

The article you posted doesn't hint at any strategy toward monetization, and only links to a blog post from 2 years. Have they done anything besides sell domain names and tshirts ?

Also accepting investment from Bain Capital is a terrible omen.

[arghandugh]

Their first significant monetized product will be a Discord Nitro-type subscription for accounts that will enable HQ media, more allowed media posts, visual gimcracks, etc.