adbreak

An adbreak, also known as a commercial break or advertising break, is a period within a television program, radio broadcast, or streaming service where advertising content is displayed or played. The primary purpose of an adbreak is to generate revenue for the broadcaster or platform by selling advertising slots to companies or individuals who wish to promote their products or services.

During a traditional television adbreak, programming is paused and a series of commercials are shown. The length of these breaks can vary, often being longer during prime-time programming or special events. In radio, adbreaks are similarly inserted between segments of music, talk, or news. Streaming services may also incorporate adbreaks, particularly in their free or lower-tier subscription models, offering a way to reduce subscription costs for viewers in exchange for watching advertisements.

The effectiveness of adbreaks is measured by various metrics, including viewership numbers, engagement rates, and the return on investment for advertisers. The content and style of advertisements shown during adbreaks are regulated by broadcasting standards and advertising authorities to ensure they are not misleading or offensive. The integration of adbreaks is a fundamental aspect of the business model for many media companies, influencing program scheduling and content creation.