EA makes greater use of accessibility patents.

Key Takeaways

  • EA shares 23 accessibility patents to help other game developers improve inclusion.
  • Patents focus on voice control, color blindness, tactile feedback, and more.
  • Improved accessibility benefits players, developers, and the gaming industry.



Implementing accessibility features in video games has become a major focus for developers in recent years. electronic arts We've continued to share our patented accessibility technology to benefit other studios, teams, and fans. EA first launched its “Patent Pledge” program in 2021 and has now added more accessibility patents that game developers can use when creating new titles.

Previous releases had a number of technical limitations that prevented the implementation of accessibility features in video games, but rapid development over the past decade has allowed users more audio, visual, and gameplay options. Increasing accessibility makes games more accessible to more players, which benefits both the community and developers alike. To further streamline accessible game development, EA has shared a number of patents on innovative gaming technologies.


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According to the official EA Patent Pledge page, the company recently shared 23 more technology patents for use by other studios and developers. Typically, big-name companies like EA, Nintendo, and Sony file patents for specific innovations, such as gaming features, granting regulation and protection so that only those filing companies can use that patented design. However, as concerns about accessibility in games grew, EA decided to make many of its patents available for others to use. This means that any video game studio can leverage EA's patented gaming technologies when developing new games. As a result, EA hopes to see more teams prioritize accessibility so more players can enjoy their video games.


Added EA Patent Covenant – December 2024


  • Situational awareness communication systems in video games
  • Automatic Controller Configuration Recommended Settings
  • Audio-based device authentication system
  • System and method for converting user interface elements of a gaming application into haptic feedback
  • color blindness diagnosis system
  • Take control of automatic player control in video games
  • Adaptive game tutorial system
  • Path navigation system within the game application environment
  • Intelligent personalized voice recognition
  • Generate expressive spoken audio from text data
  • Generate a voice with the voice of a video game player
  • Voice aging using a learner
  • Emotion-based music style change using deep learning
  • Dynamically select voice capabilities on client devices


Among the new patents added to the EA pledge list are voice-activated character control technology, audio detection for NPC interaction, a ping system with context-sensitive audio and visual output, haptic feedback triggered by the screen display, and color blindness adjustment capabilities. . EA said it hopes the pledge will “break down barriers” for players and help the industry “meet the needs” of the diverse gaming fan community. Although there are other gaming patents from EA that are not yet included in the pledge, the company's efforts to bring developers and players together through more welcoming games have received praise from industry experts and audiences alike.

By improving the accessibility of games, more players can experience and enjoy a variety of releases from established and indie developers. The importance of these features was highlighted by players, leading to an award category for Accessibility Innovation at The Game Awards. like electronic arts As we continue to add more patents to our pledge, many expect that the accessibility of games will continue to evolve and grow.

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