Microsoft has struck a deal to introduce TV-style commercials to Xbox Live in an effort to further monetize the service.
The commercials will be 15-30 seconds long and run within TV and video apps. The deal also confirms that new channels are coming to the US version of Xbox Live, including one from Manga Entertainment.
Microsoft's general manager of Xbox Live Entertainment and Advertising, Ross Honey, said "With the growth of Xbox Live, advertisers no longer have to choose between digital and TV advertising - we're offering the impact of TV and the interactivity and addressability of digital in one platform."
"As more and more industry leaders like ESPN work with us to help monetize their content on Xbox Live, TV media buyers win with the ability to extend their standard TV spots to this highly engaged consumer audience."
Microsoft has recently seen a huge upswing in advertising cash from Xbox Live. Since 2010, the service has seen an increase of revenue of around 142 per cent. This has been no doubt bolstered by last year’s dashboard redesign and the increase in advertising space it provides.
However, it has also caused ire from users who feel the dash has become less user-friendly as a result. News that users are to be force-fed TV-style commercials and adverts may well provoke further anger, as the service is already paid-for.