Microsoft files patent that could bring game-pausing ads to Xbox
A gamer plays with an Xbox controller at the Gamescom Asia X Thailand Game Show 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand, on October 18, 2025. (Photo by Anusak Laowilas/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Microsoft has filed a patent application for a system that would show advertisements during video games without interrupting players at critical moments.
Dig deeper:
The application, published Sept. 3 and obtained by FOX Television Stations, describes technology that could identify when a player is at a natural stopping point, such as the end of a game round, a loading screen or a narrative chapter. The game could then be paused while an advertisement or other promotional video plays.
In exchange for watching the promotional content, players could receive a "credit" that allows them to continue playing for a set amount of time. The application says, "The credit may have a credit duration of a nominal time, such as 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, or longer."
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Credits could also be tied to in-game progress, such as completing a level, finishing several matches or defeating a particular character.
The system would be designed to avoid interrupting players during intense gameplay. For example, it could delay an advertisement if a player is in the middle of a battle, racing at high speed or competing in an online multiplayer match.
The patent application describes several ways the system could determine when to show promotional content. A game developer could send a signal through an application programming interface, or API, indicating that the game has reached an appropriate moment for an interruption.
The technology could also use machine learning and visual recognition to analyze gameplay. It could identify events such as a player being eliminated, picking up health or equipment, scoring in a sports game or crashing into an object.
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Players could also be given control over the timing. In some examples, the system would display a notification or countdown and allow the player to choose when to watch the promotional content. If the player does not respond, the video could play when the credit period ends.
The application lists Microsoft Technology Licensing LLC as the applicant. It names Jared E. Henderson and six other inventors.
What they're saying:
FOX Television Stations reached out to Microsoft for comment but had not heard back as of publication.
Why you should care:
The filing is only a patent application and does not mean Microsoft has announced plans to add the system to its games or consoles. Companies frequently file patent applications for ideas that are never turned into consumer products.
The Source: The information in this story came from Microsoft patent application. The application was filed by Microsoft Technology Licensing LLC and published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Sept. 3, 2026. This story was reported from Los Angeles.