Game Pass with ads becomes more real? Microsoft patented new technology

Microsoft has patented a system that could, in the future, display ads during Xbox and PC games, utilizing natural pauses in gameplay.

The system does not involve ad windows in the middle of a battle or an important scene: the game will 'freeze' at moments when the player does not require immediate control. Ads may appear after defeating a boss, during the loading of the next level, or in other suitable situations.

A player who watches an ad may receive a certain amount of game time without new ads. Microsoft also plans to use machine learning to choose the moment when the ad material will be least intrusive.

The patent is interesting amidst rumors of a cheaper, ad-supported version of Xbox Game Pass. However, the document does not confirm the existence of such a tariff or Microsoft's plans to implement advertising into the subscription.

The technology can be used both in Game Pass and directly in games on Xbox Series X|S and PC. For now, this is just a patent, so the system may never appear in practice.