The PS5’s uber-fast SSD has all but eliminated loading screens, but there are still times when you need to wait around in games, like when matchmaking with other players.
As spotted by MP1st, a new document filed by PlayStation on 21st May promises to make those windows more interesting, by implementing picture-in-picture technology.
The idea here is to show relevant content during pauses in gameplay, like when you’re waiting for lobbies to populate, for example.
The examples listed include gameplay highlights, social media clips, or even AI-powered scouting reports – but it also mentions ads.
And this is the big worry for me: console makers are constantly looking for new profit vectors, and injecting ads during pauses in gameplay sounds like something that could genuinely happen.
The patent even mentions ads could feature interactive elements, so I could totally imagine Domino’s Pizza or McDonalds appearing, with links to food delivery services.
Perhaps I’m being too cynical here, and the other possibilities, like gameplay highlights, will take priority. But I’ve been covering this industry for long enough now to know how these things usually go.
The good news is that these patents rarely see the light of day, so this is probably just another experiment that will never come to fruition.
But what do you think about this prospect? Do you like the idea of Sony potentially filling the downtime during your gameplay? Or are you worried where this could all lead? Let us know below.
What do you think of Sony’s picture-in-picture patent? (218 votes)
It’s a good idea, I’m open to all uses of it3%I’m okay with it, as long as it doesn’t lead to ads15%I’m not sure, I’d need to see it in action9%Meh, I don’t want or need any version of this73%
[source patents.justia.com, via mp1st.com]
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As the Editor of Push Square, Sammy has over 15 years of experience analysing the world of PlayStation, from PS3 through PS5 and everything in between. He’s an expert on PS Studios and industry matters, as well as sports games and simulators. He also enjoys RPGs when he has the time to dedicate to them, and is a bit of a gacha whale.