Microsoft has filed a patent for a system that detects natural breaks in gameplay to insert promotional content in exchange for extended, ad-free play time. The technology, which targets PC, console, and cloud platforms, represents a potential shift toward ad-supported monetization models for interactive software.
The immediate implication is that Microsoft is building the technical infrastructure to monetize user attention rather than relying solely on direct subscription fees. For the broader ecosystem, this represents an attempt to import mobile-style rewarded video mechanics into premium console and cloud environments like Xbox Game Pass to offset rising infrastructure and licensing costs. This shift could provide a blueprint for competitors facing similar growth slowdowns. Watch for the USPTO examination timeline over the next one to three years and whether Microsoft initiates an opt-in pilot program within its free cloud tier.
The industry is increasingly exploring non-intrusive ad formats, similar to how Netflix programmatic pause ads have been implemented to maintain viewer engagement during natural breaks in content.
Microsoft has filed a patent for an ad-supported gaming system that inserts promotional content during natural gameplay breaks, such as loading screens. In exchange, players earn time-based or progress-based credits, such as 15 minutes of ad-free play. This infrastructure aims to monetize user attention across PC, console, and cloud platforms.
The system tracks gameplay to identify natural breaks like loading screens or level completions. It then inserts promotional content and rewards the player with time-based or progress-based credits for uninterrupted gaming.
Players can earn time-based credits, such as 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or one hour of ad-free play, or progress-based credits for finishing specific rounds or matches.
The technology is designed for PC, console, and cloud platforms, including Xbox Cloud Gaming.
Microsoft is building this infrastructure to monetize user attention and offset rising infrastructure and licensing costs, potentially providing an alternative to direct subscription fees.
Add StreamingMeme as a preferred source on Google to see more of our streaming news at the top of your Search results.
Add as preferred source
