Activision Blizzard (ATVI) 10-K 23 Feb 21 2020 FY Annual report Financial data

Cover Page

Cover Page - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Feb. 16, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Cover [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Document Annual Report	true
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2020
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	1-15839
Entity Registrant Name	ACTIVISION BLIZZARD, INC.
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	DE
Entity Tax Identification Number	95-4803544
Entity Address, Address Line One	3100 Ocean Park Boulevard
Entity Address, City or Town	Santa Monica,
Entity Address, State or Province	CA
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	90405
City Area Code	310
Local Phone Number	255-2000
Title of 12(b) Security	Common Stock, par value $0.000001 per share
Trading Symbol	ATVI
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag	true
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Public Float			$ 58,006,915,377
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		774,753,965
Documents Incorporated by Reference	Portions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement for the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders are incorporated herein by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K to the extent stated herein. The 2021 Proxy Statement will be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days of the registrant’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2020.
Entity Central Index Key	0000718877
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2020
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 8,647	$ 5,794
Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $83 and $132, at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively	1,052	848
Software development	352	322
Other current assets	514	328
Total current assets	10,565	7,292
Software development	160	54
Property and equipment, net	209	253
Deferred income taxes, net	1,318	1,293
Other assets	641	658
Intangible assets, net	451	531
Goodwill	9,765	9,764
Total assets	23,109	19,845
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	295	292
Deferred revenues	1,689	1,375
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	1,116	1,248
Total current liabilities	3,100	2,915
Long-term debt, net	3,605	2,675
Deferred income taxes, net	418	505
Other liabilities	949	945
Total liabilities	8,072	7,040
Commitments and contingencies (Note 22)
Shareholders’ equity:
Common stock, $0.000001 par value, 2,400,000,000 shares authorized, 1,202,906,087 and 1,197,436,644 shares issued at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	11,531	11,174
Less: Treasury stock, at cost, 428,676,471 shares at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019	(5,563)	(5,563)
Retained earnings	9,691	7,813
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(622)	(619)
Total shareholders’ equity	15,037	12,805
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$ 23,109	$ 19,845

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, allowances	$ 83	$ 132
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.000001	$ 0.000001
Common stock, shares authorized	2,400,000,000	2,400,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	1,202,906,087	1,197,436,644
Treasury stock, shares	428,676,471	428,676,471

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPER

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Net revenues
Total net revenues	$ 8,086	$ 6,489	$ 7,500
Cost of revenues:
Product development	1,150	998	1,101
Sales and marketing	1,064	926	1,062
General and administrative	784	732	822
Restructuring and related costs	94	132	10
Total costs and expenses	5,352	4,882	5,512
Operating income	2,734	1,607	1,988
Interest and other expense (income), net (Note 18)	87	(26)	71
Loss on extinguishment of debt	31	0	40
Income before income tax expense	2,616	1,633	1,877
Income tax expense	419	130	29
Net income	$ 2,197	$ 1,503	$ 1,848
Earnings per common share
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 2.85	$ 1.96	$ 2.43
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 2.82	$ 1.95	$ 2.40
Weighted-average number of shares outstanding
Basic (in shares)	771	767	762
Diluted (in shares)	778	771	771
Product sales
Net revenues
Total net revenues	$ 2,350	$ 1,975	$ 2,255
Product costs
Cost of revenues:
Cost of revenues	705	656	719
Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses
Cost of revenues:
Cost of revenues	269	240	371
In-game, subscription, and other revenues
Net revenues
Total net revenues	5,736	4,514	5,245
Game operations and distribution costs
Cost of revenues:
Cost of revenues	1,131	965	1,028
Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses
Cost of revenues:
Cost of revenues	$ 155	$ 233	$ 399

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 2,197	$ 1,503	$ 1,848
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax	35	5	(9)
Unrealized gains (losses) on forward contracts designated as hedges, net of tax	(36)	(15)	38
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax	(2)	(8)	5
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(3)	(18)	34
Comprehensive income	$ 2,194	$ 1,485	$ 1,882

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHAN

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions	Total	Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment	Common Stock	Treasury Stock	Additional Paid-In Capital	Retained Earnings	Retained EarningsCumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2017			1,186	429
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2017	$ 9,462	$ 91	$ 0	$ (5,563)	$ 10,747	$ 4,916	$ 88	$ (638)	$ 3
Components of comprehensive income:
Net income	1,848					1,848
Other comprehensive income (loss)	34							34
Issuance of common stock pursuant to employee stock options (in shares)			5
Issuance of common stock pursuant to employee stock options	98				98
Issuance of common stock pursuant to restricted stock units (in shares)			2
Issuance of common stock pursuant to restricted stock units	0
Restricted stock surrendered for employees' tax liability (in shares)			(1)
Restricted stock surrendered for employees’ tax liability	(93)				(93)
Share-based compensation expense related to employee stock options and restricted stock units	211				211
Dividends	(259)					(259)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2018			1,192	429
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2018	11,392		$ 0	$ (5,563)	10,963	6,593		(601)
Components of comprehensive income:
Net income	1,503					1,503
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(18)							(18)
Issuance of common stock pursuant to employee stock options (in shares)			4
Issuance of common stock pursuant to employee stock options	105				105
Issuance of common stock pursuant to restricted stock units (in shares)			2
Issuance of common stock pursuant to restricted stock units	0
Restricted stock surrendered for employees' tax liability (in shares)			(1)
Restricted stock surrendered for employees’ tax liability	(58)				(58)
Share-based compensation expense related to employee stock options and restricted stock units	164				164
Dividends	(283)					(283)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2019			1,197	429
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2019	12,805	$ (3)	$ 0	$ (5,563)	11,174	7,813	$ (3)	(619)
Components of comprehensive income:
Net income	2,197					2,197
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(3)							(3)
Issuance of common stock pursuant to employee stock options (in shares)			5
Issuance of common stock pursuant to employee stock options	171				171
Issuance of common stock pursuant to restricted stock units (in shares)			1
Issuance of common stock pursuant to restricted stock units	0
Restricted stock surrendered for employees’ tax liability	(40)				(40)
Share-based compensation expense related to employee stock options and restricted stock units	226				226
Dividends	(316)					(316)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2020			1,203	429
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2020	$ 15,037		$ 0	$ (5,563)	$ 11,531	$ 9,691		$ (622)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CH_2

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Feb. 06, 2020	Feb. 12, 2019	Feb. 08, 2018	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Dividends per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.41	$ 0.37	$ 0.34	$ 0.41	$ 0.37	$ 0.34

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income		$ 2,197	$ 1,503	$ 1,848
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Deferred income taxes		(94)	(352)	(35)
Non-cash operating lease cost		65	64	0
Depreciation and amortization		197	328	509
Amortization of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses	[1]	249	225	489
Share-based compensation expense	[2]	218	166	209
Other		59	19	53
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable, net		(194)	182	(114)
Software development and intellectual property licenses		(378)	(275)	(372)
Other assets		(119)	171	(56)
Deferred revenues		216	(154)	(122)
Accounts payable		(10)	31	(65)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities		(154)	(77)	(554)
Net cash provided by operating activities		2,252	1,831	1,790
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale investments		121	153	116
Purchases of available-for-sale investments		(221)	(65)	(209)
Capital expenditures		(78)	(116)	(131)
Other investing activities		0	6	(6)
Net cash used in investing activities		(178)	(22)	(230)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common stock to employees		170	105	99
Tax payment related to net share settlements on restricted stock units		(39)	(59)	(94)
Dividends paid		(316)	(283)	(259)
Proceeds from debt issuances, net of discounts		1,994	0	0
Repayment of long-term debt		(1,050)	0	(1,740)
Payment of financing costs		(20)	0	0
Premium payment for early redemption of note		(28)	0	(25)
Other financing activities		0	0	(1)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		711	(237)	(2,020)
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		69	(3)	(31)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash		2,854	1,569	(491)
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period		5,798	4,229	4,720
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period		8,652	5,798	4,229
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds		806	319	560
Cash paid for interest		$ 82	$ 86	$ 150
[1]	Excludes deferral and amortization of share-based compensation expense.
[2]	Includes the net effects of capitalization, deferral, and amortization of share-based compensation expense.

Description of Business

Description of Business	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Description of Business	Description of Business Activision Blizzard, Inc. is a leading global developer and publisher of interactive entertainment content and services. We develop and distribute content and services on video game consoles, personal computers (“PC”s), and mobile devices. We also operate esports leagues and offer digital advertising within some of our content. The terms “Activision Blizzard,” the “Company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” are used to refer collectively to Activision Blizzard, Inc. and its subsidiaries. Our Segments Based upon our organizational structure, we conduct our business through three reportable segments, each of which is a leading global developer and publisher of interactive entertainment content and services based primarily on our internally developed intellectual properties. (i) Activision Publishing, Inc. Activision Publishing, Inc. (“Activision”) delivers content through both premium and free-to-play offerings and primarily generates revenue from full-game and in-game sales, as well as by licensing software to third-party or related-party companies that distribute Activision products. Activision’s key product franchise is Call of Duty ® , a first-person action franchise. Activision also includes the activities of the Call of Duty League TM , a global professional esports league with city-based teams. (ii) Blizzard Entertainment, Inc. Blizzard Entertainment, Inc. (“Blizzard”) delivers content through both premium and free-to-play offerings and primarily generates revenue from full-game and in-game sales, subscriptions, and by licensing software to third-party or related-party companies that distribute Blizzard products. Blizzard also maintains a proprietary online gaming service, Blizzard Battle.net ® , which facilitates digital distribution of Blizzard content and selected Activision content, online social connectivity, and the creation of user-generated content. Blizzard’s key product franchises include: World of Warcraft ® , a subscription-based massive multi-player online role-playing franchise; Hearthstone ® , an online collectible card franchise based in the Warcraft universe; Diablo ® , an action role-playing franchise; and Overwatch ® , a team-based first-person action franchise. Blizzard also includes the activities of the Overwatch League TM , a global professional esports league with city-based teams. (iii) King Digital Entertainment King Digital Entertainment (“King”) delivers content primarily through free-to-play offerings and primarily generates revenue from in-game sales and in-game advertising on the mobile platform. King’s key product franchise is Candy Crush™, a “match three” franchise. Other We also engage in other businesses that do not represent reportable segments, including the Activision Blizzard Distribution (“Distribution”) business, which consists of operations in Europe that provide warehousing, logistics, and sales distribution services to third-party publishers of interactive entertainment software, our own publishing operations, and manufacturers of interactive entertainment hardware.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Consolidation and Presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts and operations of the Company. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from these estimates and assumptions. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior-year amounts to conform to the current period presentation. The Company considers events or transactions that occur after the balance sheet date, but before the financial statements are issued, for additional evidence relative to certain estimates or to identify matters that require additional disclosures. Cash and Cash Equivalents We consider all money market funds and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less at the time of purchase to be “Cash and cash equivalents.” Investment Securities Investments in debt securities designated as available-for-sale are carried at fair value, which is based on quoted market prices for such securities, if available, or is estimated on the basis of quoted market prices of financial instruments with similar characteristics. Unrealized gains and losses on the Company’s available-for-sale debt securities are excluded from earnings and are reported as a component of “Other comprehensive income (loss).” Investments with original maturities greater than three months and remaining maturities of less than one year are classified within “Other current assets.” Investments with maturities beyond one year may be classified within “Other current assets” if they are highly liquid in nature and represent the investment of cash that is available for current operations. The specific identification method is used to determine the cost of securities disposed of, with realized gains and losses reflected in “Interest and other expense (income), net” in our consolidated statements of operations. Investments in equity securities which are not accounted for under the equity method and for which there is not a readily determinable fair value are carried at cost, less impairment, and adjusted for changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investment of the same issuer. Financial Instruments The carrying amounts of “Cash and cash equivalents,” “Accounts receivable, net of allowances,” “Accounts payable,” and “Accrued expenses and other liabilities” approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of these accounts. Our investments in U.S. treasuries, government agency securities, and corporate bonds, if any, are carried at fair value, which is based on quoted market prices for such securities, if available, or is estimated on the basis of quoted market prices of financial instruments with similar characteristics. We transact business in various foreign currencies and have significant international sales and expenses denominated in foreign currencies, subjecting us to foreign currency risk. To mitigate our foreign currency risk resulting from our foreign currency-denominated monetary assets, liabilities, earnings and our foreign currency risk related to functional currency-equivalent cash flows resulting from our intercompany transactions, we periodically enter into currency derivative contracts, principally forward contracts. These forward contracts generally have a maturity of less than one year. The counterparties for our currency derivative contracts are large and reputable commercial or investment banks. We assess the nature of these derivatives under Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 815 to determine whether such derivatives should be designated as hedging instruments. The fair values of foreign currency contracts are estimated based on the prevailing exchange rates of the various hedged currencies as of the end of the period. We report the fair value of these contracts within “Other current assets,” “Accrued expense and other liabilities,” “Other assets,” or “Other liabilities,” as applicable, in our consolidated balance sheets. We do not hold or purchase foreign currency forward contracts for trading or speculative purposes. For foreign currency forward contracts which are not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, we record the changes in the estimated fair value of these derivatives within “General and administrative expenses” in our consolidated statements of operations, consistent with the nature of the underlying transactions. For foreign currency forward contracts which have been designated as cash flow hedges in accordance with ASC 815, we assess the effectiveness of these cash flow hedges at inception and on an ongoing basis and determine if the hedges are effective at providing offsetting changes in cash flows of the hedged items. The Company records the changes in the estimated fair value of these derivatives in “Accumulated other comprehensive loss” and subsequently reclassifies the related amount of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to earnings within “General and administrative” or “Net revenues” when the hedged item impacts earnings, consistent with the nature and timing of the underlying transactions. Cash flows from these foreign currency forward contracts are classified in the same category as the cash flows associated with the hedged item in the consolidated statements of cash flows. We measure hedge ineffectiveness, if any, and if it is determined that a derivative has ceased to be a highly effective hedge, the Company will discontinue hedge accounting for the derivative. Concentration of Credit Risk Our concentration of credit risk relates to depositors holding the Company’s cash and cash equivalents and customers with significant accounts receivable balances. Our cash and cash equivalents are invested primarily in money market funds consisting of short-term, high-quality debt instruments issued by governments and governmental organizations, financial institutions, and industrial companies. Our customer base includes first party digital storefronts, retailers and distributors, including mass-market retailers, consumer electronics stores, discount warehouses, and game specialty stores in the U.S. and other countries worldwide. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and maintain allowances for potential credit losses. We generally do not require collateral or other security from our customers. For the year ended December 31, 2020, Sony Interactive Entertainment, Inc. (“Sony”), Apple Inc. (“Apple”), Google Inc. (“Google”), and Microsoft Corporation (“Microsoft”) were our most significant customers with revenues of 17%, 15%, 14%, and 11%, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, Apple, Google, and Sony were our most significant customers with revenues of 17%, 13%, and 11%, respectively, for 2019, and 15%, 11%, and 13%, respectively, for 2018. No other customer accounted for 10% or more of our net revenues in those periods. We had two customers—Microsoft and Sony—who accounted for 28% and 21%, respectively, of consolidated gross receivables at December 31, 2020, and 11% and 18%, respectively, at December 31, 2019. No other customer accounted for 10% or more of our consolidated gross receivables in those periods. Software Development Costs and Intellectual Property Licenses Software development costs include direct costs incurred for internally developed products, as well as payments made to independent software developers under development agreements. Software development costs are capitalized once technological feasibility of a product is established and such costs are determined to be recoverable. Technological feasibility of a product requires both technical design documentation and game design documentation, or the completed and tested product design and a working model. For products where proven technology exists, this may occur early in the development cycle. Software development costs related to online hosted revenue arrangements are capitalized after the preliminary project phase is complete and it is probable that the project will be completed and the software will be used to perform the function intended. Significant management judgments and estimates are applied in assessing when capitalization commences for software development costs and the evaluation is performed on a product-by-product basis. Prior to a product’s release, if and when we believe capitalized costs are not recoverable, we expense the amounts as part of “Cost of revenues—software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses.” Capitalized costs for products that are canceled or are expected to be abandoned are charged to “Product development” in the period of cancellation. Amounts related to software development which are not capitalized are charged immediately to “Product development.” Commencing upon a product’s release, capitalized software development costs are amortized to “Cost of revenues—software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses” based on the ratio of current revenues to total projected revenues for the specific product, generally resulting in an amortization period of six months to approximately two years. Intellectual property license costs represent license fees paid to intellectual property rights holders for use of their trademarks, copyrights, software, technology, music or other intellectual property or proprietary rights in the development of our products. Depending upon the agreement with the rights holder, we may obtain the right to use the intellectual property in multiple products or for a single product. Prior to a product’s release, if and when we believe capitalized costs are not recoverable, we expense the amounts as part of “Cost of revenues—software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses.” Capitalized intellectual property costs for products that are canceled or are expected to be abandoned are charged to “Product development” in the period of cancellation. Commencing upon a product’s release, capitalized intellectual property license costs are amortized to “Cost of revenues—software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses” based on the ratio of current revenues for the specific product to total projected revenues for all products in which the licensed property will be utilized. As intellectual property license contracts may extend for multiple years and can be used in multiple products to be released over a period beyond one year, the amortization of capitalized intellectual property license costs relating to such contracts may extend beyond one year. We evaluate the future recoverability of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses on a quarterly basis. For products that have been released, the primary evaluation criterion is the actual performance of the title to which the costs relate. For products that are scheduled to be released in future periods, recoverability is evaluated based on the expected performance of the specific products to which the costs relate or in which the licensed trademark or copyright is to be used. Additionally, criteria used to evaluate expected product performance may include, as appropriate: historical performance of comparable products developed with comparable technology; market performance of comparable titles; orders for the product prior to its release; general market conditions; and, for any sequel product, estimated performance based on the performance of the product on which the sequel is based. Significant management judgments and estimates are utilized in assessing the recoverability of capitalized costs. In evaluating the recoverability of capitalized costs, the assessment of expected product performance utilizes forecasted sales amounts and estimates of additional costs to be incurred. If revised forecasted or actual product sales are less than the originally forecasted amounts utilized in the initial recoverability analysis, the net realizable value may be lower than originally estimated in any given quarter, which could result in an impairment charge. Material differences may result in the amount and timing of expenses for any period if matters resolve in a manner that is inconsistent with management’s expectations. Assets Recognized from Costs to Obtain a Contract with a Customer We apply the practical expedient to expense, as incurred, costs to obtain a contract with a customer when the amortization period would have been one year or less for certain similar contracts in which commissions are paid to internal personnel or third parties. We believe application of the practical expedient has a limited effect on the amount and timing of cost recognition. Total capitalized costs to obtain a contract were immaterial as of December 31, 2020 and 2019. Long-Lived Assets Property and Equipment. Property and equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset (i.e . , 25 to 33 years for buildings, and 2 to 5 years for computer equipment, office furniture and other equipment). When assets are retired or disposed of, the cost and accumulated depreciation thereon are removed and any resulting gains or losses are included in the consolidated statements of operations. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated life of the asset, not to exceed the length of the lease. Repair and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Assets. Goodwill is considered to have an indefinite life and is carried at cost. Acquired trade names are assessed as indefinite lived assets if there are no foreseeable limits on the periods of time over which they are expected to contribute cash flows. Goodwill and indefinite-lived assets are not amortized, but are subject to an annual impairment test, as well as between annual tests when events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. We perform our annual impairment testing at December 31. Our annual goodwill impairment test is performed at the reporting unit level. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, our reporting units were the same as our operating segments. We generally test goodwill for possible impairment first by performing a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value. If a qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, a quantitative impairment test is performed. If a quantitative test is performed, we determine the fair value of the related reporting unit and compare this value to the recorded net assets of the reporting unit, including goodwill. The fair value of our reporting units is determined using an income approach based on discounted cash flow models. In the event the recorded net assets of the reporting unit exceed the estimated fair value of such assets, an impairment charge is recorded for this amount under revised accounting guidance effective for the year ended December 31, 2020, and future periods. Refer to Note 3 for further discussion on the revised accounting guidance. Based on our annual impairment assessment, no impairments of goodwill were identified for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018. We test our acquired trade names for possible impairment by applying the same process as for goodwill. In the instance when a qualitative test is not performed or is inconclusive, a quantitative test is performed by using a discounted cash flow model to estimate fair value of our acquired trade names. Based on our annual impairment assessment, no impairments of our acquired trade names were identified for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018. Changes in our assumptions underlying our estimates could result in future impairment charges. Amortizable Intangible and Other Long-lived Assets. Intangible assets subject to amortization are carried at cost less accumulated amortization, and amortized over the estimated useful life in proportion to the economic benefits received. We evaluate the recoverability of our definite-lived intangible assets and other long-lived assets when events or circumstances indicate a potential impairment exists. We consider certain events and circumstances in determining whether the carrying value of identifiable intangible assets and other long-lived assets, other than indefinite-lived intangible assets, may not be recoverable including, but not limited to: significant changes in performance relative to expected operating results; significant changes in the use of the assets; significant negative industry or economic trends; a significant decline in our stock price for a sustained period of time; and changes in our business strategy. If we determine that the carrying value may not be recoverable, we estimate the undiscounted cash flows to be generated from the use and ultimate disposition of the asset group to determine whether an impairment exists. If an impairment is indicated based on a comparison of the asset groups’ carrying values and the undiscounted cash flows, the impairment loss is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset group exceeds its fair value. We did not record an impairment charge to our definite-lived intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018. Leases In February 2016, the FASB issued new guidance related to the accounting for leases. The new standard replaced all current U.S. GAAP guidance on this topic. On January 1, 2019, we adopted the new lease accounting standard. We determine if an arrangement is or contains a lease at contract inception. In certain of our lease arrangements, primarily those related to our data center arrangements, judgment is required in determining if a contract contains a lease. For these arrangements, there is judgment in evaluating if the arrangement provides us with an asset that is physically distinct, or that represents substantially all of the capacity of the asset, and if we have the right to direct the use of the asset. Lease assets and liabilities are recognized based on the present value of future lease payments over the lease term at the commencement date. Included in the lease liability are future lease payments that are fixed, in-substance fixed, or are payments based on an index or rate known at the commencement date of the lease. Variable lease payments are recognized as lease expenses as incurred, and generally relate to variable payments made based on the level of services provided by the landlords of our leases. The operating lease right-of-use (“ROU”) asset also includes any lease payments made prior to the lease commencement date, initial direct costs incurred, and lease incentives received. As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we generally use our incremental borrowing rate in determining the present value of future payments. The incremental borrowing rate represents an approximation of the rate that would be charged to borrow funds to purchase the leased asset over a similar term, and is based on the information available at the commencement date of the lease. For leased assets with similar lease terms and asset types, we applied a portfolio approach in determining a single incremental borrowing rate for the leased assets. In determining our lease liability, the lease term includes options to extend the lease when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise such option. For operating leases, the lease expense for minimum lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Finance lease assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated life of the asset, not to exceed the length of the lease, with interest expense associated with finance lease liabilities recorded using the effective interest method. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet and we recognize lease expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. We have lease agreements with lease and non-lease components. For our real estate, server and data center, and event production and broadcasting equipment leases, we elected the practical expedient to account for the lease and non-lease components as a single lease component. In all other lease arrangements, we account for lease and non-lease components separately. Additionally, for certain leases that have a group of leased assets with similar characteristics in size and composition, we may apply a portfolio approach to effectively account for the operating lease ROU assets and liabilities. Operating lease ROU assets are presented in “Other assets” and operating lease liabilities are presented in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” and “Other liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheet. Finance lease ROU assets are presented in “Property and equipment, net” and finance lease liabilities are presented in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” and “Other liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheet. Revenue Recognition In May 2014, the FASB issued new accounting guidance related to revenue recognition. On January 1, 2018, we adopted the new accounting standard and related amendments. We generate revenue primarily through the sale of our interactive entertainment content and services, principally for the console, PC, and mobile platforms, as well as through the licensing of our intellectual property. Our products span various genres, including first- and third-person action/adventure, role-playing, strategy, and “match three.” We primarily offer the following products and services: • premium full games, which typically provide access to main game content after purchase; • free-to-play offerings, which allows players to download the game and engage with the associated content for free; • in-game content for purchase to enhance gameplay (i.e. microtransactions and downloadable content) available within both our full-game and free-to-play offerings; and • subscriptions to players in our World of Warcraft franchise that provide ongoing access to the game content. When control of the promised products and services is transferred to our customers, we recognize revenue in the amount that reflects the consideration we expect to receive in exchange for these products and services. We determine revenue recognition by: • identifying the contract, or contracts, with a customer; • identifying the performance obligations in each contract; • determining the transaction price; • allocating the transaction price to the performance obligations in each contract; and • recognizing revenue when, or as, we satisfy performance obligations by transferring the promised goods or services. Certain products are sold to customers with a “street date” (which is the earliest date these products may be sold by retailers). For these products, we recognize revenues on the later of the street date and the date the product is sold to our customer. For digital full-game downloads sold to customers, we recognize revenue when it is available for download or is activated for gameplay. Revenues are recorded net of taxes assessed by governmental authorities that are imposed at the time of the specific revenue-producing transaction between us and our customer, such as sales and value-added taxes. Payment terms and conditions vary by contract type, although terms generally include a requirement of payment immediately upon purchase or within 30 to 90 days. In instances where the timing of revenue recognition differs from the timing of invoicing, we do not adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing component when we expect, at contract inception, that the period between our transfer of a promised product or service to our customer and payment for that product or service will be one year or less. Product Sales Product sales consist of sales of our games, including digital full-game downloads and physical products. We recognize revenues from the sale of our products after both (1) control of the products has been transferred to our customers and (2) the underlying performance obligations have been satisfied. Such revenues, which include our software products with significant online functionality and our online hosted software arrangements, are recognized in "Product sales" on our consolidated statement of operations. Revenues from product sales are recognized after deducting the estimated allowance for returns and price protection, which are accounted for as variable consideration when estimating the amount of revenue to recognize. Returns and price protection are estimated at contract inception and updated at the end of each reporting period as additional information becomes available. Sales incentives and other consideration given by us to our customers, such as rebates and product placement fees, are considered adjustments of the transaction price of our products and are reflected as reductions to revenues. Sales incentives and other consideration that represent costs incurred by us for distinct goods or services received, such as the appearance of our products in a customer’s national circular advertisement, are recorded as “Sales and marketing” expense when the benefit from the sales incentive is separable from sales to the same customer and we can reasonably estimate the fair value of the good or service. Products with Online Functionality For our software products that include both offline functionality (i.e., do not require an Internet connection to access) and significant online functionality, such as for most of our titles from the Call of Duty franchise, we evaluate whether the license of our intellectual property and the online functionality each represent separate and distinct performance obligations. In such instances, we typically have two performance obligations: (1) a license to the game software that is accessible without an Internet connection (predominantly the offline single player campaign or game mode) and (2) ongoing activities associated with the online components of the game, such as content updates, hosting of online content and gameplay, and online matchmaking (the “online functionality”). The online functionality generally operates to support the additional features and functionalities of the game that are only available online, not the offline license. This evaluation is performed for each software product or product add-on, including downloadable content. When we determine that our software products contain a license of intellectual property (i.e., the offline software license) that is separate and distinct from the online functionality, we consider market conditions and other observable inputs to estimate the standalone selling price for the performance obligations, since we do not generally sell the software license on a standalone basis. These products may be sold in a bundle with other products and services, which often results in the recognition of additional performance obligations. For arrangements that include both a license to the game software that is accessible offline and separate online functionality, we recognize revenue when control of the license transfers to our customers for the portion of the transaction price allocable to the offline software license and ratably over the estimated service period for the portion of the transaction price allocable to the online functionality. Similarly, we defer a portion of the cost of revenues on these arrangements and recognize the costs as the related revenues are recognized. The cost of revenues that are deferred include product costs, distribution costs, and software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses, and excludes intangible asset amortization. Online Hosted Software Arrangements For our online hosted software arrangements, such as titles for the Overwatch, World of Warcraft, and Candy Crush franchises, substantially all gameplay and functionality are obtained through our continuous hosting of the game content for the player. In these instances, we typically have a single performance obligation related to our ongoing activities in the hosted arrangement, including content updates, hosting of the gameplay, online matchmaking, and access to the game content. Similar to our software products with online functionality, these arrangements may include other products and services, which often results in the recognition of additional performance obligations. Revenues related to online hosted software arrangements are generally recognized ratably over the estimated service period. In-game, Subscription, and Other Revenues In-game Revenues In-game revenues primarily includes revenues from microtransactions and downloadable content. Microtransaction revenues are derived from the sale of virtual currencies and goods to our players to enhance their gameplay experience. Proceeds from these sales of virtual currencies and goods are initially recorded in deferred revenue. Proceeds from the sales of virtual currencies are recognized as revenues when a player uses the virtual goods purchased with a virtual currency. Proceeds from the direct sales of virtual goods are similarly recognized as revenues when a player uses the virtual goods. We categorize our virtual goods as either “consumable” or “durable.” Consumable virtual goods represent goods that can be consumed by a specific player action; accordingly, we recognize revenues from the sale of consumable virtual goods as the goods are consumed and our performance obligation is satisfied. Durable virtual goods represent goods that are accessible to the player over an extended period of time; accordingly, we recognize revenues from the sale of durable virtual goods ratably over the period of time the goods are available to the player and our performance obligation is satisfied, which is generally the estimated service period. Subscription Revenues Subscription revenue arrangements are mostly derived from World of Warcraft , which is only playable online and is generally sold on a subscription-only basis. Revenues associated with the sales of subscriptions are deferred until the subscription service is activated by the consumer and are then recognized ratably over the subscription period as the performance obligations are satisfied. Revenues attributable to the purchase of World of Warcraft software by our customers, including expansion packs, are classified as “Product sales,” whereas revenues attributable to subscriptions and other in-game revenues are classified as “In-game, subscription, and other revenues.” Other Revenues Other revenues primarily include revenues from software licensing and licensing of intellectual property other than software. These revenues are recognized in "In-game, subscription, and other revenues" on our consolidated statement of operations. In certain countries we have software licensing arrangements where we utilize third-party licensees to distribute and host our games in accordance with license agreements, for which the licensees typically pay us a fixed minimum guarantee and sales-based royalties. These arrangements typically include multiple performance obligations, such as an upfront license of intellectual property and rights to specified or unspecified future updates. Our estimate of the selling price is comprised of several factors including, but not limited to, prior selling prices, prices charged separately by other third-party vendors for similar service offerings, and a cost-plus-margin approach. Based on the allocated transaction price, we recognize revenue associated with the minimum guarantee (1) when we transfer control of the upfront license of intellectual property, (2) upon transfer of control of future specified updates, and/or (3) ratably over the contractual term in which we provide the customer with unspecified future updates. Royalty payments in excess of the minimum guarantee are generally recognized when the licensed produc

Recently Issued Accounting Pron

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Standards Update and Change in Accounting Principle [Abstract]
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Recently adopted accounting pronouncements Cloud Computing Arrangements In August 2018, the FASB issued new guidance related to a customer’s accounting for implementation costs incurred in a cloud computing arrangement (i.e., hosting arrangement) that is a service contract. The new guidance requires customers to capitalize implementation costs for these arrangements by applying the same criteria that are utilized for existing internal-use software guidance. The capitalized costs are required to be amortized over the associated term of the arrangement, generally on a straight-line basis, with amortization of these costs presented in the same financial statement line item as other costs associated with the arrangement. We adopted the new standard under a prospective approach during the first quarter of 2020 and it did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Goodwill In January 2017, the FASB issued new guidance that eliminates Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Instead, if an entity forgoes a Step 0 test, that entity will be required to perform its annual or interim goodwill impairment test by (1) comparing the fair value of a reporting unit, as determined in Step 1 from the goodwill impairment test, with its carrying amount and (2) recognizing an impairment charge, if any, for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, not to exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. We adopted the new standard under a prospective approach during the first quarter of 2020 and it did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Financial Instruments - Credit Losses In June 2016, the FASB issued new guidance related to accounting for credit losses on financial instruments. The update replaces the existing incurred loss impairment model with a methodology that reflects a current expected credit losses model which requires the use of historical and forward-looking information to calculate credit loss estimates. It also eliminates the concept of other-than-temporary impairment and requires credit losses related to available-for-sale debt securities to be recorded through an allowance for credit losses rather than as a reduction in the amortized cost basis of the securities. These changes will generally result in earlier recognition of credit losses. We adopted the new standard under a modified retrospective basis, with the cumulative effect of adoption recorded as an adjustment to retained earnings during the first quarter of 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes In December 2019, the FASB issued new guidance which is intended to simplify various aspects to accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions to the general principles in Topic 740 f or recognizing deferred taxes for investments, performing an intraperiod allocation and calculating income taxes in interim periods

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents The following table summarizes the components of our cash and cash equivalents (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 2019 Cash $ 268 $ 437 Foreign government treasury bills 34 37 Money market funds 8,345 5,320 Cash and cash equivalents $ 8,647 $ 5,794

Software Development and Intell

Software Development and Intellectual Property Licenses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Software Development Costs and Intellectual Property Licenses
Software Development and Intellectual Property Licenses	Software Development and Intellectual Property Licenses The following table summarizes the components of our capitalized software development costs (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 2019 Internally-developed software costs $ 485 $ 345 Payments made to third-party software developers 27 31 Total software development costs $ 512 $ 376 As of both December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, capitalized intellectual property licenses were not material. Amortization of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses was as follows (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Amortization of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses $ 263 $ 241 $ 501

Property and Equipment, Net

Property and Equipment, Net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment, Net	Property and Equipment, Net Property and equipment, net was comprised of the following (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 2019 Land $ 1 $ 1 Buildings 4 4 Leasehold improvements 246 252 Computer equipment 704 654 Office furniture and other equipment 95 91 Total cost of property and equipment 1,050 1,002 Less accumulated depreciation (841) (749) Property and equipment, net $ 209 $ 253 Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018 was $117 million, $124 million, and $138 million, respectively.

Intangible Assets, Net

Intangible Assets, Net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]
Intangible Assets, Net	Intangible Assets, Net Intangible assets, net consist of the following (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 Estimated Gross Accumulated Net Acquired definite-lived intangible assets: Internally-developed franchises 3 - 11 years $ 1,154 $ (1,151) $ 3 Developed software 2 - 5 years 601 (601) — Trade names 7 years 54 (40) 14 Other 1 - 10 years 19 (18) 1 Total definite-lived intangible assets $ 1,828 $ (1,810) $ 18 Acquired indefinite-lived intangible assets: Activision trademark Indefinite $ 386 Acquired trade names Indefinite 47 Total indefinite-lived intangible assets $ 433 Total intangible assets, net $ 451 At December 31, 2019 Estimated Gross Accumulated Net carrying Acquired definite-lived intangible assets: Internally-developed franchises 3 - 11 years $ 1,154 $ (1,105) $ 49 Developed software 2 - 5 years 601 (579) 22 Trade names 7 - 10 years 54 (30) 24 Other 1 - 15 years 19 (16) 3 Total definite-lived intangible assets $ 1,828 $ (1,730) $ 98 Acquired indefinite-lived intangible assets: Activision trademark Indefinite $ 386 Acquired trade names Indefinite 47 Total indefinite-lived intangible assets $ 433 Total intangible assets, net $ 531 Amortization expense of intangible assets was $80 million, $204 million, and $371 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. At December 31, 2020, future amortization of definite-lived intangible assets is estimated as follows (amounts in millions): 2021 $ 10 2022 6 2023 2 2024 — 2025 — Thereafter — Total $ 18

Goodwill

Goodwill	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill	Goodwill The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by operating segment are as follows (amounts in millions): Activision Blizzard King Total Balance at December 31, 2018 $ 6,897 $ 190 $ 2,675 $ 9,762 Other 1 — 1 2 Balance at December 31, 2019 $ 6,898 $ 190 $ 2,676 $ 9,764 Other 1 — — 1 Balance at December 31, 2020 $ 6,899 $ 190 $ 2,676 $ 9,765 At December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, there were no accumulated impairment losses.

Other Assets and Liabilities

Other Assets and Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Other Assets and Liabilities
Other Assets and Liabilities	Other Assets and LiabilitiesIncluded in “Accrued expenses and other liabilities” in our consolidated balance sheets are accrued payroll-related costs of $406 million and $395 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and the current portion of income taxes payable of $100 million and $436 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements The FASB literature regarding fair value measurements for certain assets and liabilities establishes a three-level fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. This hierarchy requires entities to maximize the use of “observable inputs” and minimize the use of “unobservable inputs.” The three levels of inputs used to measure fair value are as follows: • Level 1—Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; • Level 2—Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data; and • Level 3—Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities, including certain pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, and similar techniques that use significant unobservable inputs. Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring Basis The table below segregates all of our financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis into the most appropriate level within the fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used to determine the fair value at the measurement date (amounts in millions): Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2020 Using As of December 31, 2020 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets Significant Other Observable Inputs Significant Unobservable Inputs Balance Sheet Financial Assets: Recurring fair value measurements: Money market funds $ 8,345 $ 8,345 $ — $ — Cash and cash equivalents Foreign government treasury bills 34 34 — — Cash and cash equivalents U.S. treasuries and government agency securities 164 164 — — Other current assets Total recurring fair value measurements $ 8,543 $ 8,543 $ — $ — Financial Liabilities: Foreign currency forward contracts not designated as hedges $ (2) $ — $ (2) $ — Accrued expenses and other liabilities Foreign currency forward contracts designated as hedges $ (24) $ — $ (24) $ — Accrued expenses and other liabilities Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2019 Using As of December 31, 2019 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets Significant Other Observable Inputs Significant Unobservable Inputs Balance Sheet Financial Assets: Recurring fair value measurements: Money market funds $ 5,320 $ 5,320 $ — $ — Cash and cash equivalents Foreign government treasury bills 37 37 — — Cash and cash equivalents U.S. treasuries and government agency securities 65 65 — — Other current assets Total recurring fair value measurements $ 5,422 $ 5,422 $ — $ — Financial Liabilities: Foreign currency forward contracts not designated as hedges $ (2) $ — $ (2) $ — Accrued expenses and other liabilities Foreign currency forward contracts designated as hedges $ (2) $ — $ (2) $ — Accrued expenses and other liabilities Foreign Currency Forward Contracts Foreign Currency Forward Contracts Designated as Hedges (“Cash Flow Hedges”) The total gross notional amounts and fair values of our Cash Flow Hedges, all of which have remaining maturities of 11 months or less, are as follows (amounts in millions): As of December 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Notional amount Fair value gain (loss) Notional amount Fair value gain (loss) Foreign Currency: Buy USD, Sell Euro $ 542 $ (24) $ 350 $ (2) The amounts of pre-tax net realized gains (losses) associated with our Cash Flow Hedges that were reclassified out of “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” and into earnings are as follows (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Statement of Operations Classification Cash Flow Hedges $ (3) $ 39 $ 7 Net revenues Foreign Currency Forward Contracts Not Designated as Hedges The total gross notional amounts and fair values of our foreign currency forward contracts not designated as hedges are as follows (amounts in millions): As of December 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Notional amount Fair value gain (loss) Notional amount Fair value gain (loss) Foreign Currency: Buy USD, Sell GBP $ 116 $ (2) $ 25 $ (2) During the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, pre-tax net gains and losses associated with these forward contracts were recorded in “General and administrative expenses” and were not material.

Deferred Revenues

Deferred Revenues	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Deferred Revenues	Deferred Revenues We record deferred revenues when cash payments are received or due in advance of the fulfillment of our associated performance obligations. The aggregate of the current and non-current balances of deferred revenues as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2020, were $1.4 billion and $1.7 billion, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2020, the additions to our deferred revenues balance were primarily due to cash payments received or due in advance of satisfying our performance obligations, while the reductions to our deferred revenues balance were primarily due to the recognition of revenues upon fulfillment of our performance obligations, both of which were in the ordinary course of business. During the years ended December 31, 2020, December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, $1.3 billion, $1.5 billion, and $1.7 billion of revenues, respectively, were recognized that were included in the deferred revenues balance at the beginning of the period. As of December 31, 2020, the aggregate amount of contracted revenues allocated to our unsatisfied performance obligations is $2.5 billion, which includes our deferred revenues balances and amounts to be invoiced and recognized as revenue in future periods. We expect to recognize approximately $1.9 billion over the next 12 months, $0.4 billion in the subsequent 12-month period, and the remainder thereafter. This balance does not include an estimate for variable consideration arising from sales-based royalty license revenue in excess of the contractual minimum guarantee or any estimated amounts of variable consideration that are subject to constraint in accordance with the new revenue standard.

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	Leases Our lease arrangements are primarily for: (1) corporate, administrative, and development studio offices; and (2) data centers and server equipment. Our existing leases have remaining lease terms ranging from one one Components of our lease costs are as follows (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Operating leases Operating lease costs $ 75 $ 75 Variable lease costs 20 20 Rental expense prior to our adoption of the new lease standard was $75 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. Supplemental information related to our operating leases is as follows (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Supplemental Operating Cash Flows Information Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities $ 77 $ 80 ROU assets obtained in exchange for new lease obligations 80 65 At December 31, 2020 At December 31, 2019 Weighted Average Lease terms and discount rates Remaining lease term 4.48 years 5.00 years Discount rate 3.40 % 4.02 % Future undiscounted lease payments for our operating lease liabilities, and a reconciliation of these payments to our operating lease liabilities at December 31, 2020, are as follows (amounts in millions): For the years ending December 31, 2021 $ 75 2022 71 2023 64 2024 53 2025 33 Thereafter 18 Total future lease payments $ 314 Less imputed interest (24) Total lease liabilities $ 290 Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities recorded on our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, were as follows (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 At December 31, 2019 Balance Sheet Classification ROU assets $ 243 $ 232 Other assets Current lease liabilities $ 66 $ 63 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Non-current lease liabilities 224 210 Other liabilities $ 290 $ 273 Total lease liabilities

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	Debt Credit Facilities As of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, we had $1.5 billion available under a revolving credit facility (the “Revolver”) pursuant to a credit agreement entered into on October 11, 2013 (as amended thereafter and from time to time, the “Credit Agreement”). To date, we have not drawn on the Revolver. The Revolver is scheduled to mature on August 24, 2023. Borrowings under the Revolver will bear interest, at the Company’s option, at either (1) a base rate equal to the highest of (i) the federal funds rate, plus 0.5%, (ii) the prime commercial lending rate of Bank of America, N.A. and (iii) the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) for an interest period of one month beginning on such day plus 1.00%, or (2) LIBOR, in each case, plus an applicable interest margin. LIBOR will be subject to a floor of 0% and base rate will be subject to an effective floor of 1.00%. The applicable interest margin for borrowings under the Revolver will range from 0.875% to 1.375% for LIBOR borrowings and from 0% to 0.375% for base rate borrowings and will be determined by reference to a pricing grid based on the Company’s credit ratings. Up to $50 million of the Revolver may be used for letters of credit. Under the Credit Agreement, we are subject to a financial covenant requiring the Company’s Consolidated Total Net Debt Ratio (as defined in the Credit Agreement) not to exceed 3.75:1.00 (or, at the Company’s option and for a limited period of time upon the consummation of a Qualifying Acquisition (as defined in the Credit Agreement), 4.25:1.00. The Credit Agreement contains covenants customary for transactions of this type for issuer with similar credit ratings. These include those restricting liens, debt of non-guarantor subsidiaries and certain fundamental changes, in each case with exceptions, including exceptions for secured debt and debt of non-guarantor subsidiaries of the Company, in each case up to an amount not exceeding 7.5% of Total Assets (as defined in the Credit Agreement). We were in compliance with the terms of the Credit Agreement as of December 31, 2020. Unsecured Senior Notes As of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, we had $3.7 billion and $2.7 billion, respectively, of gross unsecured senior notes outstanding. A summary of our outstanding unsecured notes is as follows (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 At December 31, 2019 Unsecured Senior Notes Interest Rate Semi-Annual Interest Payments Due On Maturity Principal Fair Value Principal Fair Value 2021 Notes 2.30% Mar. 15 & Sept. 15 Sept. 2021 $ — $ — $ 650 $ 653 2022 Notes 2.60% Jun. 15 & Dec. 15 Jun. 2022 — — 400 405 2026 Notes 3.40% Mar. 15 & Sept. 15 Sept. 2026 850 970 850 893 2027 Notes 3.40% Jun. 15 & Dec. 15 Jun. 2027 400 454 400 417 2030 Notes 1.35% Mar. 15 & Sept. 15 Sept. 2030 500 490 — — 2047 Notes 4.50% Jun. 15 & Dec. 15 Jun. 2047 400 525 400 456 2050 Notes 2.50% Mar. 15 & Sept. 15 Sept. 2050 1,500 1,462 — — Total gross long-term debt $ 3,650 $ 2,700 Unamortized discount and deferred financing costs (45) (25) Total net carrying amount $ 3,605 $ 2,675 On August 5, 2020, we issued the 2030 Notes and 2050 Notes in a public underwritten offering, for an aggregate principal amount of $2.0 billion in new debt. In connection with the issuance, we incurred approximately $26 million of debt discount and financing costs that were capitalized and recorded within “Long-term debt, net” in our consolidated balance sheet. On September 4, 2020, we redeemed all of our outstanding 2021 Notes and 2022 Notes at a redemption price equal to 100% of their respective principal amounts plus (1) a “make-whole” premium of $28 million and (2) accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. The redemption of the 2021 Notes and 2022 Notes resulted in a “Loss on extinguishment of debt” recorded in the consolidated statement of operations of $31 million. We may redeem some or all of each class of the unsecured senior notes. Any such redemption will be at a price equal to 100% of the aggregate principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest as well as, for a redemption prior to the permitted redemption date for that class of notes, a “make-whole” premium. Upon the occurrence of certain change of control events, we will be required to offer to repurchase the notes outstanding at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest. These repurchase requirements are considered clearly and closely related to the unsecured notes and are not accounted for separately upon issuance. The outstanding notes are general senior obligations of the Company and rank pari passu in right of payment to all of the Company’s existing and future senior indebtedness, including the Revolver described above. The notes are not secured and are effectively junior to any of the Company’s existing and future indebtedness that is secured to the extent of the value of the collateral securing such indebtedness. The notes contain customary covenants that place restrictions in certain circumstances on, among other things, the incurrence of secured debt, entry into sale or leaseback transactions, and certain merger or consolidation transactions. We were in compliance with the terms of the notes outstanding as of December 31, 2020. As of December 31, 2020, we have no contractual principal repayments of our long-term debt within the next five years.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) were as follows (amounts in millions): For the Year Ended December 31, 2020 Foreign currency Unrealized gain (loss) Unrealized gain (loss) Total Balance at December 31, 2019 $ (624) $ (3) $ 8 $ (619) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 37 (6) (39) (8) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings (2) 4 3 5 Balance at December 31, 2020 $ (589) $ (5) $ (28) $ (622) For the Year Ended December 31, 2019 Foreign currency Unrealized gain (loss) Unrealized gain (loss) Total Balance at December 31, 2018 $ (629) $ 5 $ 23 $ (601) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 5 — 24 29 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings — (8) (39) (47) Balance at December 31, 2019 $ (624) $ (3) $ 8 $ (619)

Operating Segments and Geograph

Operating Segments and Geographic Regions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Operating Segments and Geographic Regions	Operating Segments and Geographic Regions We have three reportable segments—Activision, Blizzard, and King. Our operating segments are consistent with the manner in which our operations are reviewed and managed by our Chief Executive Officer, who is our chief operating decision maker (“CODM”). The CODM reviews segment performance exclusive of: the impact of the change in deferred revenues and related cost of revenues with respect to certain of our online-enabled games; share-based compensation expense; amortization of intangible assets as a result of purchase price accounting; fees and other expenses (including legal fees, expenses, and accruals) related to acquisitions, associated integration activities, and financings; certain restructuring and related costs; and certain other non-cash charges. The CODM does not review any information regarding total assets on an operating segment basis, and accordingly, no disclosure is made with respect thereto. Our operating segments are also consistent with our internal organizational structure, the way we assess operating performance and allocate resources, and the availability of separate financial information. We do not aggregate operating segments. Information on the reportable segment net revenues and segment operating income are presented below (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Activision Blizzard King Total Segment Revenues Net revenues from external customers $ 3,942 $ 1,794 $ 2,164 $ 7,900 Intersegment net revenues (1) — 111 — 111 Segment net revenues $ 3,942 $ 1,905 $ 2,164 $ 8,011 Segment operating income $ 1,868 $ 693 $ 857 $ 3,418 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Activision Blizzard King Total Segment Revenues Net revenues from external customers $ 2,219 $ 1,676 $ 2,031 $ 5,926 Intersegment net revenues (1) — 43 — 43 Segment net revenues $ 2,219 $ 1,719 $ 2,031 $ 5,969 Segment operating income $ 850 $ 464 $ 740 $ 2,054 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Activision Blizzard King Total Segment Revenues Net revenues from external customers $ 2,458 $ 2,238 $ 2,086 $ 6,782 Intersegment net revenues (1) — 53 — 53 Segment net revenues $ 2,458 $ 2,291 $ 2,086 $ 6,835 Segment operating income $ 1,011 $ 685 $ 750 $ 2,446 (1) Intersegment revenues reflect licensing and service fees charged between segments. Reconciliations of total segment net revenues and total segment operating income to consolidated net revenues and consolidated income before income tax expense are presented in the table below (amounts in millions): Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Reconciliation to consolidated net revenues: Segment net revenues $ 8,011 $ 5,969 $ 6,835 Revenues from non-reportable segments (1) 519 462 480 Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues (2) (333) 101 238 Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) (111) (43) (53) Consolidated net revenues $ 8,086 $ 6,489 $ 7,500 Reconciliation to consolidated income before income tax expense: Segment operating income $ 3,418 $ 2,054 $ 2,446 Operating income from non-reportable segments (1) (55) 24 31 Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues and related cost of revenues (2) (238) 52 100 Share-based compensation expense ( Note 16 ) (218) (166) (209) Amortization of intangible assets (79) (203) (370) Restructuring and related costs ( Note 17 ) (94) (137) (10) Discrete tax-related items (4) — (17) — Consolidated operating income 2,734 1,607 1,988 Interest and other expense (income), net 87 (26) 71 Loss on extinguishment of debt 31 — 40 Consolidated income before income tax expense $ 2,616 $ 1,633 $ 1,877 (1) Includes other income and expenses from operating segments managed outside the reportable segments, including our Distribution business. Also includes unallocated corporate income and expenses. (2) Reflects the net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues, along with related cost of revenues, on certain of our online-enabled products. (3) Intersegment revenues reflect licensing and service fees charged between segments. (4) Reflects the impact of other unusual or unique tax-related items and activities. Net revenues by distribution channel, including a reconciliation to each of our reportable segment’s net revenues, were as follows (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) Total Net revenues by distribution channel: Digital online channels (1) $ 2,930 $ 1,672 $ 2,167 $ — $ (111) $ 6,658 Retail channels 702 39 — — — 741 Other (2) 57 92 — 538 — 687 Total consolidated net revenues $ 3,689 $ 1,803 $ 2,167 $ 538 $ (111) $ 8,086 Change in deferred revenues: Digital online channels (1) $ 365 $ 102 $ (3) $ — $ — $ 464 Retail channels (112) — — — — (112) Other (2) — — — (19) — (19) Total change in deferred revenues $ 253 $ 102 $ (3) $ (19) $ — $ 333 Segment net revenues: Digital online channels (1) $ 3,295 $ 1,774 $ 2,164 $ — $ (111) $ 7,122 Retail channels 590 39 — — — 629 Other (2) 57 92 — 519 — 668 Total segment net revenues $ 3,942 $ 1,905 $ 2,164 $ 519 $ (111) $ 8,419 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) Total Net revenues by distribution channel: Digital online channels (1) $ 1,366 $ 1,580 $ 2,029 $ — $ (43) $ 4,932 Retail channels 818 91 — — — 909 Other (2) 3 181 — 464 — 648 Total consolidated net revenues $ 2,187 $ 1,852 $ 2,029 $ 464 $ (43) $ 6,489 Change in deferred revenues: Digital online channels (1) $ 122 $ (128) $ 2 $ — $ — $ (4) Retail channels (90) (5) — — — (95) Other (2) — — — (2) — (2) Total change in deferred revenues $ 32 $ (133) $ 2 $ (2) $ — $ (101) Segment net revenues: Digital online channels (1) $ 1,488 $ 1,452 $ 2,031 $ — $ (43) $ 4,928 Retail channels 728 86 — — — 814 Other (2) 3 181 — 462 — 646 Total segment net revenues $ 2,219 $ 1,719 $ 2,031 $ 462 $ (43) $ 6,388 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) Total Net revenues by distribution channel: Digital online channels (1) $ 1,740 $ 2,009 $ 2,090 $ — $ (53) $ 5,786 Retail channels 998 109 — — — 1,107 Other (2) — 148 — 459 — 607 Total consolidated net revenues $ 2,738 $ 2,266 $ 2,090 $ 459 $ (53) $ 7,500 Change in deferred revenues: Digital online channels (1) $ (96) $ 32 $ (4) $ — $ — $ (68) Retail channels (184) (7) — — — (191) Other (2) — — — 21 — 21 Total change in deferred revenues $ (280) $ 25 $ (4) $ 21 $ — $ (238) Segment net revenues: Digital online channels (1) $ 1,644 $ 2,041 $ 2,086 $ — $ (53) $ 5,718 Retail channels 814 102 — — — 916 Other (2) — 148 — 480 — 628 Total segment net revenues $ 2,458 $ 2,291 $ 2,086 $ 480 $ (53) $ 7,262 (1) Net revenues from “Digital online channels” include revenues from digitally-distributed downloadable content, microtransactions, subscriptions, and products, as well as licensing royalties. (2) Net revenues from “Other” primarily includes revenues from our Distribution business, the Overwatch League, and the Call of Duty League. (3) Intersegment revenues reflect licensing and service fees charged between segments. Geographic information presented below is based on the location of the paying customer. Net revenues by geographic region, including a reconciliation to each of our reportable segment’s net revenues, were as follows (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (2) Total Net revenues by geographic region: Americas $ 2,316 $ 794 $ 1,384 $ — $ (60) $ 4,434 EMEA (1) 1,061 550 568 538 (37) 2,680 Asia Pacific 312 459 215 — (14) 972 Total consolidated net revenues $ 3,689 $ 1,803 $ 2,167 $ 538 $ (111) $ 8,086 Change in deferred revenues: Americas $ 228 $ 58 $ (1) $ — $ — $ 285 EMEA (1) 36 43 (1) (19) — 59 Asia Pacific (11) 1 (1) — — (11) Total change in deferred revenues $ 253 $ 102 $ (3) $ (19) $ — $ 333 Segment net revenues: Americas $ 2,544 $ 852 $ 1,383 $ — $ (60) $ 4,719 EMEA (1) 1,097 593 567 519 (37) 2,739 Asia Pacific 301 460 214 — (14) 961 Total segment net revenues $ 3,942 $ 1,905 $ 2,164 $ 519 $ (111) $ 8,419 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (2) Total Net revenues by geographic region: Americas $ 1,286 $ 822 $ 1,254 $ — $ (21) $ 3,341 EMEA (1) 691 543 557 464 (16) 2,239 Asia Pacific 210 487 218 — (6) 909 Total consolidated net revenues $ 2,187 $ 1,852 $ 2,029 $ 464 $ (43) $ 6,489 Change in deferred revenues: Americas $ 16 $ (62) $ 2 $ — $ — $ (44) EMEA (1) 12 (57) — (2) — (47) Asia Pacific 4 (14) — — — (10) Total change in deferred revenues $ 32 $ (133) $ 2 $ (2) $ — $ (101) Segment net revenues: Americas $ 1,302 $ 760 $ 1,256 $ — $ (21) $ 3,297 EMEA (1) 703 486 557 462 (16) 2,192 Asia Pacific 214 473 218 — (6) 899 Total segment net revenues $ 2,219 $ 1,719 $ 2,031 $ 462 $ (43) $ 6,388 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (2) Total Net revenues by geographic region: Americas $ 1,622 $ 1,004 $ 1,269 $ 13 $ (28) $ 3,880 EMEA (1) 897 692 599 446 (16) 2,618 Asia Pacific 219 570 222 — (9) 1,002 Total consolidated net revenues $ 2,738 $ 2,266 $ 2,090 $ 459 $ (53) $ 7,500 Change in deferred revenues: Americas $ (163) $ 15 $ (3) $ — $ — $ (151) EMEA (1) (127) 16 (1) 21 — (91) Asia Pacific 10 (6) — — — 4 Total change in deferred revenues $ (280) $ 25 $ (4) $ 21 $ — $ (238) Segment net revenues: Americas $ 1,459 $ 1,019 $ 1,266 $ 13 $ (28) $ 3,729 EMEA (1) 770 708 598 467 (16) 2,527 Asia Pacific 229 564 222 — (9) 1,006 Total segment net revenues $ 2,458 $ 2,291 $ 2,086 $ 480 $ (53) $ 7,262 (1) “EMEA” consists of the Europe, Middle East, and Africa geographic regions. (2) Intersegment revenues reflect licensing and service fees charged between segments. The Company’s net revenues in the U.S. were 48%, 46%, and 46% of consolidated net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. The Company’s net revenues in the United Kingdom (“U.K.”) for each of the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018 were 12% of consolidated net revenues. No other country’s net revenues exceeded 10% of consolidated net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, or 2018. Net revenues by platform, including a reconciliation to each of our reportable segment’s net revenues, were as follows (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) Total Net revenues by platform: Console $ 2,668 $ 116 $ — $ — $ — $ 2,784 PC 582 1,489 96 — (111) 2,056 Mobile and ancillary (1) 382 106 2,071 — — 2,559 Other (2) 57 92 — 538 — 687 Total consolidated net revenues $ 3,689 $ 1,803 $ 2,167 $ 538 $ (111) $ 8,086 Change in deferred revenues: Console $ 140 $ (8) $ — $ — $ — $ 132 PC 64 115 — — — 179 Mobile and ancillary (1) 49 (5) (3) — — 41 Other (2) — — — (19) — (19) Total change in deferred revenues $ 253 $ 102 $ (3) $ (19) $ — $ 333 Segment net revenues: Console $ 2,808 $ 108 $ — $ — $ — $ 2,916 PC 646 1,604 96 — (111) 2,235 Mobile and ancillary (1) 431 101 2,068 — — 2,600 Other (2) 57 92 — 519 — 668 Total segment net revenues $ 3,942 $ 1,905 $ 2,164 $ 519 $ (111) $ 8,419 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) Total Net revenues by platform: Console $ 1,783 $ 137 $ — $ — $ — $ 1,920 PC 298 1,346 117 — (43) 1,718 Mobile and ancillary (1) 103 188 1,912 — — 2,203 Other (2) 3 181 — 464 — 648 Total consolidated net revenues $ 2,187 $ 1,852 $ 2,029 $ 464 $ (43) $ 6,489 Change in deferred revenues: Console $ (36) $ (18) $ — $ — $ — $ (54) PC 57 (110) — — — (53) Mobile and ancillary (1) 11 (5) 2 — — 8 Other (2) — — — (2) — (2) Total change in deferred revenues $ 32 $ (133) $ 2 $ (2) $ — $ (101) Segment net revenues: Console $ 1,747 $ 119 $ — $ — $ — $ 1,866 PC 355 1,236 117 — (43) 1,665 Mobile and ancillary (1) 114 183 1,914 — — 2,211 Other (2) 3 181 — 462 — 646 Total segment net revenues $ 2,219 $ 1,719 $ 2,031 $ 462 $ (43) $ 6,388 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) Total Net revenues by platform: Console $ 2,351 $ 187 $ — $ — $ — $ 2,538 PC 368 1,711 154 — (53) 2,180 Mobile and ancillary (1) 19 220 1,936 — — 2,175 Other (2) — 148 — 459 — 607 Total consolidated net revenues $ 2,738 $ 2,266 $ 2,090 $ 459 $ (53) $ 7,500 Change in deferred revenues: Console $ (257) $ (8) $ — $ — $ — $ (265) PC (23) 33 (1) — — 9 Mobile and ancillary (1) — — (3) — — (3) Other (2) — — — 21 — 21 Total change in deferred revenues $ (280) $ 25 $ (4) $ 21 $ — $ (238) Segment net revenues: Console $ 2,094 $ 179 $ — $ — $ — $ 2,273 PC 345 1,744 153 — (53) 2,189 Mobile and ancillary (1) 19 220 1,933 — — 2,172 Other (2) — 148 — 480 — 628 Total segment net revenues $ 2,458 $ 2,291 $ 2,086 $ 480 $ (53) $ 7,262 (1) Net revenues from “Mobile and ancillary” include revenues from mobile devices, as well as non-platform specific game-related revenues, such as standalone sales of physical merchandise and accessories. (2) Net revenues from “Other” primarily includes revenues from our Distribution business, the Overwatch League, and the Call of Duty League. (3) Intersegment revenues reflect licensing and service fees charged between segments. Long-lived assets by geographic region were as follows (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Long-lived assets* by geographic region: Americas $ 270 $ 322 $ 203 EMEA 166 142 62 Asia Pacific 17 21 17 Total long-lived assets by geographic region $ 453 $ 485 $ 282 * The only long-lived assets that we classify by region are our long-term tangible fixed assets, which consist of property, plant, and equipment assets, and our lease right-of-use assets; all other long-term assets are not allocated by location. For information regarding significant customers, see “Concentration of Credit Risk” in Note 2 .

Share-Based Payments

Share-Based Payments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Share-Based Payments	Share-Based Payments Activision Blizzard Equity Incentive Plans On June 5, 2014, the Activision Blizzard, Inc. 2014 Incentive Plan (the “2014 Plan”) became effective. Under the 2014 Plan, the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors is authorized to provide share-based compensation in the form of stock options, share appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance shares, and other performance- or value-based awards structured by the Compensation Committee within parameters set forth in the 2014 Plan. As of the effective date of the 2014 Plan, we had ceased making awards under our prior equity incentive plans (collectively, the “Prior Plans”), although such plans remain in effect to the extent that they continue to govern outstanding awards. While the Compensation Committee has broad discretion to create equity incentives, our current share-based compensation program generally utilizes a combination of options and restricted stock units. The majority of our options have time-based vesting schedules, generally vesting annually over a period of three years to five years, and expire 10 years from the grant date. In addition, under the terms of the 2014 Plan, the exercise price for the options must be equal to or greater than the closing price per share of our common stock on the date the award is granted, as reported on Nasdaq. Restricted stock units have time-based vesting schedules, generally vesting in their entirety on an anniversary of the date of grant, or vest annually over a period of three years to five years, and may also be contingent on the achievement of specified performance measures, including those which are market-based. Achievement against such performance measures typically results in vesting of amounts that are different than the target shares at grant based on over- or under-achievement against the performance targets. Typically, performance-based RSU’s provide for vesting up to 125% of the grant date target shares if performance targets are sufficiently overachieved (and will be cancelled without the vesting of any shares if the threshold level of performance measures is not met), but in certain instances performance-based RSU’s can vest up to 500% of the grant date target amount based on achievement against the performance targets. As of the date it was approved by our shareholders, there were 46 million shares available for issuance under the 2014 Plan. The number of shares of our common stock reserved for issuance under the 2014 Plan has been, and may be further, increased from time to time by: (1) the number of shares relating to awards outstanding under any Prior Plan that: (i) expire, or are forfeited, terminated or canceled, without the issuance of shares; (ii) are settled in cash in lieu of shares; or (iii) are exchanged, prior to the issuance of shares of our common stock, for awards not involving our common stock; (2) if the exercise price of any option outstanding under any Prior Plans is, or the tax withholding requirements with respect to any award outstanding under any Prior Plans are, satisfied by withholding shares otherwise then deliverable in respect of the award or the actual or constructive transfer to the Company of shares already owned, the number of shares equal to the withheld or transferred shares; and (3) if a share appreciation right is exercised and settled in shares, a number of shares equal to the difference between the total number of shares with respect to which the award is exercised and the number of shares actually issued or transferred. As of December 31, 2020, we had approximately 20 million shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under the 2014 Plan. Shares issued in connection with awards made under the 2014 Plan are generally issued as new stock issuances. Fair Value Valuation Assumptions Valuation of Stock Options The fair value of stock options granted are principally estimated using a binomial-lattice model. The inputs in our binomial-lattice model include expected stock price volatility, risk-free interest rate, dividend yield, contractual term, and vesting schedule, as well as measures of employees’ cancellations, exercise, and post-vesting termination behavior. Statistical methods are used to estimate employee termination rates. The following table presents the weighted-average assumptions, weighted average grant date fair value, and the range of expected stock price volatility: Employee Stock Options For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Expected life (in years) 7.70 7.85 7.64 Volatility 30.89 % 30.00 % 32.37 % Risk free interest rate 0.70 % 1.90 % 3.10 % Dividend yield 0.53 % 0.76 % 0.61 % Weighted-average grant date fair value $ 25.93 $ 17.12 $ 21.03 Stock price volatility range: Low 30.00 % 30.00 % 31.72 % High 39.00 % 38.17 % 36.73 % Expected life The expected life of employee stock options is a derived output of the binomial-lattice model and represents the weighted-average period the stock options are expected to remain outstanding. A binomial-lattice model assumes that employees will exercise their options when the stock price equals or exceeds an exercise multiple. The exercise multiple is based on historical employee exercise behaviors. Volatility To estimate volatility for the binomial-lattice model, we consider the implied volatility of exchange-traded options on our stock to estimate short-term volatility, the historical volatility of our common shares during the option’s contractual term to estimate long-term volatility, and a statistical model to estimate the transition from short-term volatility to long-term volatility. Risk-free interest rate As is the case for volatility, the risk-free interest rate is assumed to change during the option’s contractual term. The risk-free interest rate, which is based on U.S. Treasury yield curves, reflects the expected movement in the interest rate from one time period to the next. Dividend yield The expected dividend yield assumption is based on our historical and expected future amount of dividend payouts. Share-based compensation expense recognized is based on awards ultimately expected to vest and therefore has been reduced for estimated forfeitures. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant based on historical experience and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Valuation of Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) The fair value of the Company’s RSU awards granted are generally based upon the closing price of the Company’s stock on the date of grant reduced by the present value of dividends expected to be paid on our common stock prior to vesting. We also grant market-based RSU awards, from time to time, whose fair value is determined using a Monte Carlo simulation. Such market-based RSU awards include performance conditions based on our own stock price, and may also include performance conditions that compare our stock price performance to an index, such as the S&P 500 Total Shareholder Return index. The Monte Carlo model simulates performance of our stock, as well as any applicable stock index performance, over the performance measurement period to determine the performance payout, with the resulting achievement discounted back to the valuation date, at the risk-free rate, to arrive at the fair value of the awards. Additionally, the Monte Carlo simulation provides an output of the service period to achieve the market condition in instances where such market condition can impact the vesting date of the market-based RSU. The valuation assumptions utilized in the Monte Carlo model are generally consistent with those discussed in the valuation of stock options above. The weighted average risk free interest rate, volatility, and dividend yield utilized in the Monte Carlo model for market-based RSU awards in 2020 were 0.11%, 37.39%, and 0.47%, respectively. Accuracy of Fair Value Estimates We developed the assumptions used in the models above, including measures of employees’ exercise and post-vesting termination behavior. Our ability to accurately estimate the fair value of share-based payment awards at the grant date depends upon the accuracy of the model and our ability to accurately forecast model inputs for as long as 10 years into the future. These inputs include, but are not limited to, expected stock price volatility, risk-free rate, dividend yield, and employee termination rates. Although the fair value of employee stock options is determined using an option-pricing model, the estimates that are produced by this model may not be indicative of the fair value observed between a willing buyer and a willing seller as there are not current active markets for the trading of employee stock options and other share-based instruments. Stock Option Activity Stock option activity is as follows: Number of shares (in thousands) Weighted-average Weighted-average Aggregate Outstanding stock options at December 31, 2019 14,029 $ 44.31 Granted 2,419 78.19 Exercised (4,543) 37.49 Forfeited (573) 52.98 Expired (35) 52.68 Outstanding stock options at December 31, 2020 11,297 $ 53.84 7.68 $ 441 Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2020 10,669 $ 53.05 7.60 $ 425 Exercisable at December 31, 2020 3,710 $ 41.56 5.75 $ 190 The aggregate intrinsic values in the table above represents the total pretax intrinsic value (i.e., the difference between our closing stock price on the last trading day of the period and the exercise price, times the number of shares for options where the closing stock price is greater than the exercise price) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on that date. This amount changes based on the market value of our stock. The total intrinsic value of options actually exercised was $174 million, $80 million, and $196 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. The total grant date fair value of options that vested during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018 was $62 million, $94 million, and $45 million, respectively. At December 31, 2020, $66 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.25 years. RSU Activity We grant RSUs, which represent the right to receive shares of our common stock. Vesting for RSUs is contingent upon the holders’ continued employment with us and may be subject to other conditions (which may include the satisfaction of a performance measure). Also, certain of our performance-based RSUs, including those that are market-based, include a range of shares that may be released at vesting which are above or below the targeted number of RSUs based on actual performance relative to the performance measure. If the vesting conditions are not met, unvested RSUs will be forfeited. Upon vesting of the RSUs, we may withhold shares otherwise deliverable to satisfy tax withholding requirements. The following table summarizes our RSU activity with performance-based RSUs, including those with market conditions, presented at 100% of the target level shares that may potentially vest (amounts in thousands, except per share data): Number of shares Weighted- Unvested RSUs at December 31, 2019 7,181 $ 54.23 Granted 2,254 201.25 Vested (1,513) 49.76 Forfeited (820) 55.39 Unvested RSUs at December 31, 2020 7,102 $ 82.50 Certain of our performance-based RSUs did not have an accounting grant date as of December 31, 2020, as there is not a mutual understanding between the Company and the employee of the performance terms. Generally, these performance terms relate to operating income performance for future years where the performance goals have not yet been set. As of December 31, 2020, based on the target potential shares that could be earned, there were 2.4 million performance-based RSUs outstanding for which the accounting grant date had not been set, of which 1.4 million were 2020 grants. Accordingly, no grant date fair value was established and the weighted average grant date fair values calculated above excludes these RSUs. At December 31, 2020, approximately $170 million of total unrecognized compensation cost was related to RSUs and is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.75 years. Of the total unrecognized compensation cost, $154 million was related to performance-based RSUs, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.75 years. The total grant date fair value of RSUs that vested during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018 was $82 million, $147 million, and $120 million, respectively. The income tax benefit from stock option exercises and RSU vestings was $61 million, $47 million, and $94 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. Share-Based Compensation Expense The following table sets forth the total share-based compensation expense included in our consolidated statements of operations (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Cost of revenues—product sales: Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses $ 14 $ 19 $ 13 Cost of revenues—in-game, subscription, and other: Game Operations and Distribution Costs 1 1 2 Cost of revenues—in-game, subscription, and other: Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses — 1 3 Product development 42 53 61 Sales and marketing 21 10 15 General and administrative 140 82 115 Share-based compensation expense before income taxes 218 166 209 Income tax benefit (28) (29) (46) Total share-based compensation expense, net of income tax benefit $ 190 $ 137 $ 163

Restructuring

Restructuring	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring	Restructuring During 2019, we began implementing a plan aimed at refocusing our resources on our largest opportunities and removing unnecessary levels of complexity from certain parts of our business. We have been: • increasing our investment in development for our largest, internally-owned franchises—across upfront releases, in-game content, mobile, and geographic expansion; • reducing certain non-development and administrative-related costs across our business; and • integrating our global and regional sales and “go-to-market,” partnerships, and sponsorships capabilities across the business, which we believe will enable us to provide better opportunities for talent, and greater expertise and scale on behalf of our business units. Since initial implementation in 2019, we have expanded the scope of certain actions within our plan that are aimed at integrating our global and regional functions to allow continued focus on investing in our largest, internally-owned franchises and to provide us with the ability to better leverage our scale across the organization. The restructuring actions remain in progress as we continue to focus on these goals and will continue into 2021. The following table summarizes accrued restructuring and related costs included in “Accrued expenses and other liabilities” in our consolidated balance sheet (amounts in millions) related to this plan: Severance and employee related costs Facilities and related costs Other costs Total Balance at December 31, 2018 $ — $ — $ — $ — Costs charged to expense 76 29 27 132 Cash payments (44) — (12) (56) Non-cash charge adjustment (1) — (29) (12) (41) Balance at December 31, 2019 $ 32 $ — $ 3 $ 35 Costs charged to expense 76 6 5 87 Cash payments (20) — (5) (25) Non-cash charge adjustment (1) — (6) — (6) Balance at December 31, 2020 $ 88 $ — $ 3 $ 91 Cumulative charges incurred through December 31, 2020 $ 152 $ 35 $ 32 $ 219 (1) Adjustments relate to non-cash charges included in “Costs charged to expense” for the write-down of assets from canceled projects and the write-down of assets for our lease facilities, inclusive of lease right-of-use assets and associated fixed assets, that were vacated. Total restructuring and related costs by segment are (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Activision $ 13 $ 19 Blizzard 71 68 King (1) 20 Other segments (1) 4 25 Total $ 87 $ 132 (1) Includes charges for operating segments managed outside the reportable segments and our corporate and administrative functions. During the year ended December 31, 2020, we incurred additional restructuring charges that are not included in the plan discussed above. Such amounts were not material. During the year ended December 31, 2019, we also recorded $5 million to write-down inventory as a result of changes to certain of our consumer product activities as part of our restructuring actions, whereby those activities will now operate under a licensing business model rather than being direct sales. This write-down is recorded within “Cost of revenues—product sales: Product costs” in our consolidated statement of operations. We expect to incur total aggregate pre-tax restructuring charges of approximately $310 million associated with the plan, of which the remaining charges that have not yet been incurred are expected to largely be incurred within the next 12 months. The charges associated with the plan are expected to relate to severance and employee-related costs (approximately 60% of the aggregate charge), facilities and related costs (approximately 20% of the aggregate charge), and other costs (approximately 20% of the aggregate charge), including charges for restructuring related fees and the write-down of assets. A substantial majority (approximately 70%) of the total pre-tax charge associated with the restructuring is expected to be paid in cash using amounts on hand, and such cash outlays are largely expected to be completed by the end of 2021. We do not expect to realize significant net savings in our total operating expenses as a result of our plan, as cost reductions in our selling, general and administrative activities is expected to be offset by increased investment in product development. The total charges incurred through December 31, 2020 and total expected pre-tax restructuring charges related to the plan by segment, inclusive of amounts already incurred and inclusive of the inventory write-down discussed above, are presented below (amounts in millions): Total Charges Incurred Through December 31, 2020 Total Charges Expected as of December 31, 2020 Activision $ 32 $ 42 Blizzard 144 200 King 19 25 Other segments (1) 29 43 Total $ 224 $ 310 (1) Includes charges for operating segments managed outside the reportable segments and our corporate and administrative functions.

Interest and Other Expense (Inc

Interest and Other Expense (Income), Net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Interest and Other Expense (Income), Net	Interest and Other Expense (Income), Net Interest and other expense (income), net is comprised of the following (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Interest income $ (21) $ (79) $ (65) Interest expense from debt and amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 99 90 140 Unrealized gain on equity investment (3) (38) — Other expense (income), net 12 1 (4) Interest and other expense (income), net $ 87 $ (26) $ 71

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes Domestic and foreign income (loss) before income taxes and details of the income tax expense (benefit) are as follows (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Income before income tax expense: Domestic $ 1,160 $ 328 $ 432 Foreign 1,456 1,305 1,445 $ 2,616 $ 1,633 $ 1,877 Income tax expense (benefit): Current: Federal $ 206 $ 136 $ (208) State 92 24 (15) Foreign 218 323 280 Total current 516 483 57 Deferred: Federal (84) 781 (153) State (10) (16) 106 Foreign (3) (1,118) 19 Total deferred (97) (353) (28) Income tax expense $ 419 $ 130 $ 29 The items accounting for the difference between income taxes computed at the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate and the income tax expense (benefit) at the effective tax rate for each of the years are as follows (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Federal income tax provision at statutory rate $ 549 21 % $ 343 21 % $ 394 21 % State taxes, net of federal benefit 49 2 20 1 36 2 Research and development credits (70) (3) (38) (2) (46) (2) Foreign rate differential (103) (4) (104) (7) (198) (11) Foreign-derived intangible income (40) (2) (1) — — — Change in tax reserves 60 2 96 6 285 15 Audit settlements — — 54 3 (115) (6) Excess tax benefits related to share-based payments (30) (1) (2) — (58) (3) U.S. Tax Reform Act — — — — (340) (18) Change in valuation allowance 35 2 11 1 61 3 Intra-entity IP Transfer (31) (1) (230) (14) — — Other — — (19) (1) 10 1 Income tax expense $ 419 16 % $ 130 8 % $ 29 2 % The Company’s tax rate is affected by the tax rates in the jurisdictions in which the Company operates, some of which have a statutory tax rate less than the U.S. rate and the relative amount of income earned in each jurisdiction. In October 2019, we completed an intra-entity transfer of certain intellectual property rights to one of our subsidiaries in the U.K., aligning the ownership of these rights with our evolving business. The transfer did not result in a taxable gain; however, our U.K. subsidiary received a step-up in tax basis based on the fair value of the transferred intellectual property rights. Such fair value was determined based on our expectations of future cash flows, long-term growth rates, and discount rates. We recorded a one-time benefit of $230 million in the quarter ended December 31, 2019 for the recognition of a $1.1 billion deferred tax asset in the U.K. related to the amortizable tax basis in the transferred intellectual property, net of uncertain tax positions and a valuation allowance, partially offset by a related $920 million deferred tax liability for U.S. taxes on foreign earnings. The U.K. amortizable tax basis will be recovered over a period of three years to 25 years and the related deferred tax asset was measured using the enacted U.K. corporate tax rates for the years in which the amortization will be realized. We recorded a valuation allowance of $110 million in 2019 for the portion of the deferred tax asset for which it is more-likely-than-not that a benefit will not be realized. We will update the measurement and realizability analysis going forward and record the impact from any change in determination in the period of the change. During the year ended December 31, 2020, we completed an intra-entity transfer of certain intellectual property rights to the U.S. to better align the profits related to these rights with our evolving business activities. As a result, a significant portion of these earnings began qualifying for preferential treatment as foreign-derived intangible income during 2020. The transfer resulted in a one-time benefit of $31 million in connection with the remeasurement of a U.S. deferred tax asset related to foreign earnings. On June 27, 2018, we entered into a closing agreement with the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) to resolve certain intercompany transfer pricing arrangements for tax periods starting in 2009 (the “Closing Agreement”). The primary adjustments related to the Closing Agreement were recognized in the second quarter of 2018 and consisted of a tax expense of $70 million and a reduction in unrecognized tax benefits of $437 million. In addition, we recognized $185 million of tax benefits related to other tax adjustments resulting from the changes in U.S. tax attributes and taxable income caused by the primary adjustments. The Closing Agreement resulted in federal and state cash tax payments totaling approximately $345 million, of which federal tax payments of $334 million were made in October 2018. On December 22, 2017, the U.S. Tax Reform Act was enacted. The U.S. Tax Reform Act, among other things, reduced the U.S. corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%, beginning in 2018, and implemented the Transition Tax. In the fourth quarter of 2018, we completed our analysis of the effect of the U.S. Tax Reform Act and recorded a net tax benefit of $340 million. This is primarily related to adoption of GILTI deferred tax accounting and remeasurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities partially offset by tax expense related to Transition Tax. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the amounts of assets and liabilities for accounting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. The components of the net deferred tax assets (liabilities) are as follows (amounts in millions): As of December 31, 2020 2019 Deferred tax assets: Deferred revenue $ 274 $ 119 Tax attributes carryforwards 123 93 Share-based compensation 51 54 Intangibles 1,287 1,289 Capitalized software development expenses 21 67 Other 160 156 Deferred tax assets 1,916 1,778 Valuation allowance (228) (181) Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance 1,688 1,597 Deferred tax liabilities: Intangibles (147) (142) U.S. deferred taxes on foreign earnings (577) (594) Other (63) (73) Deferred tax liabilities (787) (809) Net deferred tax assets $ 901 $ 788 As of December 31, 2020, we had gross tax credit carryforwards of $227 million for state purposes. The tax credit carryforwards are included in deferred tax assets net of unrealized tax benefits that would apply upon the realization of uncertain tax positions. In addition, we had foreign net operating loss carryforwards of $46 million at December 31, 2020, most of which carry forward indefinitely. We evaluate deferred tax assets each period for recoverability. We record a valuation allowance for assets that do not meet the threshold of “more likely than not” to be realized in the future. To make that determination, we evaluate the likelihood of realization based on the weight of all positive and negative evidence available. As of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, we maintained a valuation allowance related to our California research and development credit carryforwards of $107 million and $71 million, respectively. We will reassess this determination quarterly and record a tax benefit if and when future evidence allows for a partial or full release of this valuation allowance. In addition, we remeasured the U.K. deferred tax asset related to previously transferred intellectual property rights and corresponding U.S. deferred tax liability due to the change in the U.K.'s corporate income tax rate during 2020. As of December 31, 2020, the U.K. deferred tax asset net of valuation allowance is $1.1 billion and the corresponding U.S. deferred tax liability is $881 million. Activision Blizzard’s tax years after 2008 remain open to examination by certain major taxing jurisdictions to which we are subject. The Internal Revenue Service is currently examining our federal tax returns for the 2012 through 2016 tax years. We also have several state and non-U.S. audits pending. In addition, King’s pre-acquisition tax returns remain open in various jurisdictions, primarily as a result of transfer pricing matters. We anticipate resolving King’s transfer pricing for both pre- and post-acquisition tax years through a collaborative multilateral process with the tax authorities in the relevant jurisdictions, which include the U.K. and Sweden. While the outcome of this process remains uncertain, it could result in an agreement that changes the allocation of profits and losses between these and other relevant jurisdictions or a failure to reach an agreement that results in unilateral adjustments to the amount and timing of taxable income in the jurisdictions in which King operates. In December 2017, we received a Notice of Reassessment from the French Tax Authority (the “FTA”) related to transfer pricing for intercompany transactions involving one of our French subsidiaries for the 2011 through 2013 tax years. The total assessment, including penalties and interest, was approximately €571 million (approximately $638 million). In December 2019, the Company reached a settlement with the FTA for the 2011 through 2018 tax years, resulting in the recognition of $54 million of tax expense in the period ended December 31, 2019 and a tax payment of €161 million (approximately $179 million), including interest and penalties, in January 2020. In addition, certain of our subsidiaries are under examination or investigation, or may be subject to examination or investigation, by tax authorities in various jurisdictions. These proceedings may lead to adjustments or proposed adjustments to our taxes or provisions for uncertain tax positions. Such proceedings may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, liquidity, or results of operations in the earlier of the period or periods in which the matters are resolved and in which appropriate tax provisions are taken into account in our financial statements. If we were to receive a materially adverse assessment from a taxing jurisdiction, we would plan to vigorously contest it and consider all of our options, including the pursuit of judicial remedies. As of December 31, 2020, we had $1.2 billion of gross unrecognized tax benefits, $706 million of which would affect our effective tax rate, if recognized. A reconciliation of total gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Unrecognized tax benefits balance at January 1 $ 1,037 $ 926 $ 1,138 Gross increase for tax positions taken during a prior year 97 151 103 Gross decrease for tax positions taken during a prior year (1) (168) (123) Gross increase for tax positions taken during the current year 38 291 132 Settlement with taxing authorities (3) (163) (312) Lapse of statute of limitations (2) — (12) Unrecognized tax benefits balance at December 31 $ 1,166 $ 1,037 $ 926 As of December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, we had approximately $93 million, $72 million, and $87 million, respectively, of accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions. For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, we recorded $19 million, $14 million, and $11 million, respectively, of interest expense related to uncertain tax positions. The final resolution of the Company’s global tax disputes is uncertain. There is significant judgment required in the analysis of disputes, including the probability determination and estimation of the potential exposure. Based on current information, in the opinion of the Company’s management, the ultimate resolution of these matters is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, liquidity or results of operations, except as noted above.

Computation of Basic_Diluted Ea

Computation of Basic/Diluted Earnings Per Common Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Computation of Basic/Diluted Earnings Per Common Share	Computation of Basic/Diluted Earnings Per Common Share The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share (amounts in millions, except per share data): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Numerator: Consolidated net income $ 2,197 $ 1,503 $ 1,848 Denominator: Denominator for basic earnings per common share—weighted-average common shares outstanding 771 767 762 Effect of dilutive stock options and awards under the treasury stock method 7 4 9 Denominator for diluted earnings per common share—weighted-average common shares outstanding plus dilutive common shares under the treasury stock method 778 771 771 Basic earnings per common share $ 2.85 $ 1.96 $ 2.43 Diluted earnings per common share $ 2.82 $ 1.95 $ 2.40 The vesting of certain of our employee-related restricted stock units is contingent upon the satisfaction of predefined performance measures. The shares underlying these equity awards are included in the weighted-average dilutive common shares only if the performance measures are met as of the end of the reporting period. Additionally, potential common shares are not included in the denominator of the diluted earnings per common share calculation when the inclusion of such shares would be anti-dilutive. Weighted-average shares excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share were as follows (amounts in millions): For the For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Restricted stock units with performance measures not yet met 2 2 4 Anti-dilutive employee stock options 1 6 3

Capital Transactions

Capital Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Equity [Abstract]
Capital Transactions	Capital Transactions Repurchase Programs On January 27, 2021, our Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program under which we are authorized to repurchase up to of $4 billion of our common stock during the two-year period from February 14, 2021 until the earlier of February 13, 2023 and a determination by the Board of Directors to discontinue the repurchase program. To date, we have not repurchased any shares under this program. On January 31, 2019, our Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program under which we were authorized to repurchase up to $1.5 billion of our common stock from February 14, 2019 until the earlier of February 13, 2021 and a determination by the Board of Directors to discontinue the repurchase program. We did not repurchase any shares under this program. Dividends On February 4, 2021, our Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.47 per common share. Such dividend is payable on May 6, 2021, to shareholders of record at the close of business on April 15, 2021. On February 6, 2020, our Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.41 per common share. On May 6, 2020, made an aggregate cash dividend payment of $316 million to shareholders of record at the close of business on April 15, 2020. On February 12, 2019, our Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.37 per common share. On May 9, 2019, we made an aggregate cash dividend payment of $283 million to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 28, 2019. On February 8, 2018, our Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.34 per common share. On May 9, 2018, we made an aggregate cash dividend payment of $259 million to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 30, 2018.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Obligations In the normal course of business, we enter into contractual arrangements with third parties for non-cancelable operating lease agreements for our offices, for the development of products which may include obtaining rights to intellectual property, and for hosting services to support our games and our administrative functions. Under these agreements, we commit to provide specified payments to a lessor, developer, or hosting provider, as the case may be, based upon contractual arrangements. The payments to third-party developers are generally conditioned upon the achievement by the developers of contractually specified development milestones. Further, these payments to third-party developers typically are deemed to be advances and, as such, are recoupable against future royalties earned by the developer based on sales of the related game. Additionally, we also enter into arrangements in which we commit to spend specified amounts for marketing to support and promote our content and services. Assuming all contractual provisions are met, the total future minimum commitments for these and other contractual arrangements in place at December 31, 2020, are scheduled to be paid as follows (amounts in millions): Contractual Obligations (1) Facility and Developer and Hosting Marketing Long-Term Debt Obligations (2) Total For the years ending December 31, 2021 $ 77 $ 95 $ 158 $ 109 $ 439 2022 72 84 166 105 427 2023 65 85 66 105 321 2024 54 3 — 105 162 2025 33 — — 105 138 Thereafter 19 — — 5,057 5,076 Total $ 320 $ 267 $ 390 $ 5,586 $ 6,563 (1) We have omitted uncertain income tax liabilities from this table due to the inherent uncertainty regarding the timing of the potential issue resolution of the underlying matters. Specifically, either (a) the underlying positions have not been fully developed under audit to quantify at this time or (b) the years relating to the matters for certain jurisdictions are not currently under audit. At December 31, 2020, we had $466 million of net unrecognized tax benefits included in “Other liabilities,” in our consolidated balance sheet. Additionally, at December 31, 2020, we have a remaining net Transition Tax liability of $153 million associated with the U.S. Tax Reform Act. The remaining Transition Tax liability is payable over the next six years and is not reflected in our Contractual Obligations table above. (2) Long-term debt obligations represent our obligations related to the contractual principal repayments and interest payments for our outstanding unsecured notes, which are subject to fixed interest rates, as of December 31, 2020. There was no outstanding balance under our Revolver as of December 31, 2020. We have calculated the expected interest obligation based on the outstanding principal balance and interest rate applicable at December 31, 2020. Refer to Note 13 for additional information on our debt obligations. Legal Proceedings We are party to routine claims, suits, investigations, audits, and other proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business, including with respect to intellectual property, competition and antitrust matters, regulatory matters, tax matters, privacy matters, labor and employment matters, compliance matters, unclaimed property matters, liability and personal injury claims, product damage claims, collection matters, and/or commercial claims. In the opinion of management, after consultation with legal counsel, such routine claims and lawsuits are not significant and we do not expect them to have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity. Letters of Credit As described in Note 13 , a portion of our Revolver can be used to issue letters of credit of up to $50 million, subject to the availability of the Revolver. At December 31, 2020, we did not have any letters of credit issued or outstanding under the Revolver.

SCHEDULE II VALUATION AND QUALI

SCHEDULE II VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS (Amounts in millions) Col. A Description Col. B Col. C Col. D Col. E At December 31, 2020 Allowances for sales returns and price protection and other allowances $ 118 $ (29) $ (26) $ 63 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets $ 181 $ 49 $ (2) $ 228 At December 31, 2019 Allowances for sales returns and price protection and other allowances $ 186 $ 11 $ (79) $ 118 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets $ 61 $ 127 $ (7) $ 181 At December 31, 2018 Allowances for sales returns and price protection and other allowances $ 274 $ 24 $ (112) $ 186 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets $ — $ 61 $ — $ 61 (A) Includes increases and reversals of allowances for sales returns, price protection, and valuation allowance for deferred tax assets due to normal reserving terms. (B) Includes actual write-offs and utilization of allowances for sales returns, price protection, and releases of income tax valuation allowances and foreign currency translation and other adjustments.

Summary of Significant Accoun_2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Consolidation and Presentation	Basis of Consolidation and Presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts and operations of the Company. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from these estimates and assumptions. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior-year amounts to conform to the current period presentation. The Company considers events or transactions that occur after the balance sheet date, but before the financial statements are issued, for additional evidence relative to certain estimates or to identify matters that require additional disclosures.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents We consider all money market funds and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less at the time of purchase to be “Cash and cash equivalents.”
Investment Securities	Investment Securities Investments in debt securities designated as available-for-sale are carried at fair value, which is based on quoted market prices for such securities, if available, or is estimated on the basis of quoted market prices of financial instruments with similar characteristics. Unrealized gains and losses on the Company’s available-for-sale debt securities are excluded from earnings and are reported as a component of “Other comprehensive income (loss).” Investments with original maturities greater than three months and remaining maturities of less than one year are classified within “Other current assets.” Investments with maturities beyond one year may be classified within “Other current assets” if they are highly liquid in nature and represent the investment of cash that is available for current operations. The specific identification method is used to determine the cost of securities disposed of, with realized gains and losses reflected in “Interest and other expense (income), net” in our consolidated statements of operations. Investments in equity securities which are not accounted for under the equity method and for which there is not a readily determinable fair value are carried at cost, less impairment, and adjusted for changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investment of the same issuer.
Financial Instruments	Financial Instruments The carrying amounts of “Cash and cash equivalents,” “Accounts receivable, net of allowances,” “Accounts payable,” and “Accrued expenses and other liabilities” approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of these accounts. Our investments in U.S. treasuries, government agency securities, and corporate bonds, if any, are carried at fair value, which is based on quoted market prices for such securities, if available, or is estimated on the basis of quoted market prices of financial instruments with similar characteristics. We transact business in various foreign currencies and have significant international sales and expenses denominated in foreign currencies, subjecting us to foreign currency risk. To mitigate our foreign currency risk resulting from our foreign currency-denominated monetary assets, liabilities, earnings and our foreign currency risk related to functional currency-equivalent cash flows resulting from our intercompany transactions, we periodically enter into currency derivative contracts, principally forward contracts. These forward contracts generally have a maturity of less than one year. The counterparties for our currency derivative contracts are large and reputable commercial or investment banks. We assess the nature of these derivatives under Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 815 to determine whether such derivatives should be designated as hedging instruments. The fair values of foreign currency contracts are estimated based on the prevailing exchange rates of the various hedged currencies as of the end of the period. We report the fair value of these contracts within “Other current assets,” “Accrued expense and other liabilities,” “Other assets,” or “Other liabilities,” as applicable, in our consolidated balance sheets. We do not hold or purchase foreign currency forward contracts for trading or speculative purposes. For foreign currency forward contracts which are not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, we record the changes in the estimated fair value of these derivatives within “General and administrative expenses” in our consolidated statements of operations, consistent with the nature of the underlying transactions. For foreign currency forward contracts which have been designated as cash flow hedges in accordance with ASC 815, we assess the effectiveness of these cash flow hedges at inception and on an ongoing basis and determine if the hedges are effective at providing offsetting changes in cash flows of the hedged items. The Company records the changes in the estimated fair value of these derivatives in “Accumulated other comprehensive loss” and subsequently reclassifies the related amount of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to earnings within “General and administrative” or “Net revenues” when the hedged item impacts earnings, consistent with the nature and timing of the underlying transactions. Cash flows from these foreign currency forward contracts are classified in the same category as the cash flows associated with the hedged item in the consolidated statements of cash flows. We measure hedge ineffectiveness, if any, and if it is determined that a derivative has ceased to be a highly effective hedge, the Company will discontinue hedge accounting for the derivative.
Concentration of Credit Risk	Concentration of Credit Risk Our concentration of credit risk relates to depositors holding the Company’s cash and cash equivalents and customers with significant accounts receivable balances. Our cash and cash equivalents are invested primarily in money market funds consisting of short-term, high-quality debt instruments issued by governments and governmental organizations, financial institutions, and industrial companies. Our customer base includes first party digital storefronts, retailers and distributors, including mass-market retailers, consumer electronics stores, discount warehouses, and game specialty stores in the U.S. and other countries worldwide. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and maintain allowances for potential credit losses. We generally do not require collateral or other security from our customers. For the year ended December 31, 2020, Sony Interactive Entertainment, Inc. (“Sony”), Apple Inc. (“Apple”), Google Inc. (“Google”), and Microsoft Corporation (“Microsoft”) were our most significant customers with revenues of 17%, 15%, 14%, and 11%, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, Apple, Google, and Sony were our most significant customers with revenues of 17%, 13%, and 11%, respectively, for 2019, and 15%, 11%, and 13%, respectively, for 2018. No other customer accounted for 10% or more of our net revenues in those periods. We had two customers—Microsoft and Sony—who accounted for 28% and 21%, respectively, of consolidated gross receivables at December 31, 2020, and 11% and 18%, respectively, at December 31, 2019. No other customer accounted for 10% or more of our consolidated gross receivables in those periods.
Software Development Costs and Intellectual Property Licenses	Software Development Costs and Intellectual Property Licenses Software development costs include direct costs incurred for internally developed products, as well as payments made to independent software developers under development agreements. Software development costs are capitalized once technological feasibility of a product is established and such costs are determined to be recoverable. Technological feasibility of a product requires both technical design documentation and game design documentation, or the completed and tested product design and a working model. For products where proven technology exists, this may occur early in the development cycle. Software development costs related to online hosted revenue arrangements are capitalized after the preliminary project phase is complete and it is probable that the project will be completed and the software will be used to perform the function intended. Significant management judgments and estimates are applied in assessing when capitalization commences for software development costs and the evaluation is performed on a product-by-product basis. Prior to a product’s release, if and when we believe capitalized costs are not recoverable, we expense the amounts as part of “Cost of revenues—software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses.” Capitalized costs for products that are canceled or are expected to be abandoned are charged to “Product development” in the period of cancellation. Amounts related to software development which are not capitalized are charged immediately to “Product development.” Commencing upon a product’s release, capitalized software development costs are amortized to “Cost of revenues—software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses” based on the ratio of current revenues to total projected revenues for the specific product, generally resulting in an amortization period of six months to approximately two years. Intellectual property license costs represent license fees paid to intellectual property rights holders for use of their trademarks, copyrights, software, technology, music or other intellectual property or proprietary rights in the development of our products. Depending upon the agreement with the rights holder, we may obtain the right to use the intellectual property in multiple products or for a single product. Prior to a product’s release, if and when we believe capitalized costs are not recoverable, we expense the amounts as part of “Cost of revenues—software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses.” Capitalized intellectual property costs for products that are canceled or are expected to be abandoned are charged to “Product development” in the period of cancellation. Commencing upon a product’s release, capitalized intellectual property license costs are amortized to “Cost of revenues—software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses” based on the ratio of current revenues for the specific product to total projected revenues for all products in which the licensed property will be utilized. As intellectual property license contracts may extend for multiple years and can be used in multiple products to be released over a period beyond one year, the amortization of capitalized intellectual property license costs relating to such contracts may extend beyond one year. We evaluate the future recoverability of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses on a quarterly basis. For products that have been released, the primary evaluation criterion is the actual performance of the title to which the costs relate. For products that are scheduled to be released in future periods, recoverability is evaluated based on the expected performance of the specific products to which the costs relate or in which the licensed trademark or copyright is to be used. Additionally, criteria used to evaluate expected product performance may include, as appropriate: historical performance of comparable products developed with comparable technology; market performance of comparable titles; orders for the product prior to its release; general market conditions; and, for any sequel product, estimated performance based on the performance of the product on which the sequel is based. Significant management judgments and estimates are utilized in assessing the recoverability of capitalized costs. In evaluating the recoverability of capitalized costs, the assessment of expected product performance utilizes forecasted sales amounts and estimates of additional costs to be incurred. If revised forecasted or actual product sales are less than the originally forecasted amounts utilized in the initial recoverability analysis, the net realizable value may be lower than originally estimated in any given quarter, which could result in an impairment charge. Material differences may result in the amount and timing of expenses for any period if matters resolve in a manner that is inconsistent with management’s expectations.
Assets Recognized from Costs to Obtain a Contract with a Customer/Revenue Recognition/Allowances for Returns and Price Protection/Contract Balances/Shipping and Handling/Cost of Revenues	Assets Recognized from Costs to Obtain a Contract with a Customer We apply the practical expedient to expense, as incurred, costs to obtain a contract with a customer when the amortization period would have been one year or less for certain similar contracts in which commissions are paid to internal personnel or third parties. We believe application of the practical expedient has a limited effect on the amount and timing of cost recognition. Total capitalized costs to obtain a contract were immaterial as of December 31, 2020 and 2019. Revenue Recognition In May 2014, the FASB issued new accounting guidance related to revenue recognition. On January 1, 2018, we adopted the new accounting standard and related amendments. We generate revenue primarily through the sale of our interactive entertainment content and services, principally for the console, PC, and mobile platforms, as well as through the licensing of our intellectual property. Our products span various genres, including first- and third-person action/adventure, role-playing, strategy, and “match three.” We primarily offer the following products and services: • premium full games, which typically provide access to main game content after purchase; • free-to-play offerings, which allows players to download the game and engage with the associated content for free; • in-game content for purchase to enhance gameplay (i.e. microtransactions and downloadable content) available within both our full-game and free-to-play offerings; and • subscriptions to players in our World of Warcraft franchise that provide ongoing access to the game content. When control of the promised products and services is transferred to our customers, we recognize revenue in the amount that reflects the consideration we expect to receive in exchange for these products and services. We determine revenue recognition by: • identifying the contract, or contracts, with a customer; • identifying the performance obligations in each contract; • determining the transaction price; • allocating the transaction price to the performance obligations in each contract; and • recognizing revenue when, or as, we satisfy performance obligations by transferring the promised goods or services. Certain products are sold to customers with a “street date” (which is the earliest date these products may be sold by retailers). For these products, we recognize revenues on the later of the street date and the date the product is sold to our customer. For digital full-game downloads sold to customers, we recognize revenue when it is available for download or is activated for gameplay. Revenues are recorded net of taxes assessed by governmental authorities that are imposed at the time of the specific revenue-producing transaction between us and our customer, such as sales and value-added taxes. Payment terms and conditions vary by contract type, although terms generally include a requirement of payment immediately upon purchase or within 30 to 90 days. In instances where the timing of revenue recognition differs from the timing of invoicing, we do not adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing component when we expect, at contract inception, that the period between our transfer of a promised product or service to our customer and payment for that product or service will be one year or less. Product Sales Product sales consist of sales of our games, including digital full-game downloads and physical products. We recognize revenues from the sale of our products after both (1) control of the products has been transferred to our customers and (2) the underlying performance obligations have been satisfied. Such revenues, which include our software products with significant online functionality and our online hosted software arrangements, are recognized in "Product sales" on our consolidated statement of operations. Revenues from product sales are recognized after deducting the estimated allowance for returns and price protection, which are accounted for as variable consideration when estimating the amount of revenue to recognize. Returns and price protection are estimated at contract inception and updated at the end of each reporting period as additional information becomes available. Sales incentives and other consideration given by us to our customers, such as rebates and product placement fees, are considered adjustments of the transaction price of our products and are reflected as reductions to revenues. Sales incentives and other consideration that represent costs incurred by us for distinct goods or services received, such as the appearance of our products in a customer’s national circular advertisement, are recorded as “Sales and marketing” expense when the benefit from the sales incentive is separable from sales to the same customer and we can reasonably estimate the fair value of the good or service. Products with Online Functionality For our software products that include both offline functionality (i.e., do not require an Internet connection to access) and significant online functionality, such as for most of our titles from the Call of Duty franchise, we evaluate whether the license of our intellectual property and the online functionality each represent separate and distinct performance obligations. In such instances, we typically have two performance obligations: (1) a license to the game software that is accessible without an Internet connection (predominantly the offline single player campaign or game mode) and (2) ongoing activities associated with the online components of the game, such as content updates, hosting of online content and gameplay, and online matchmaking (the “online functionality”). The online functionality generally operates to support the additional features and functionalities of the game that are only available online, not the offline license. This evaluation is performed for each software product or product add-on, including downloadable content. When we determine that our software products contain a license of intellectual property (i.e., the offline software license) that is separate and distinct from the online functionality, we consider market conditions and other observable inputs to estimate the standalone selling price for the performance obligations, since we do not generally sell the software license on a standalone basis. These products may be sold in a bundle with other products and services, which often results in the recognition of additional performance obligations. For arrangements that include both a license to the game software that is accessible offline and separate online functionality, we recognize revenue when control of the license transfers to our customers for the portion of the transaction price allocable to the offline software license and ratably over the estimated service period for the portion of the transaction price allocable to the online functionality. Similarly, we defer a portion of the cost of revenues on these arrangements and recognize the costs as the related revenues are recognized. The cost of revenues that are deferred include product costs, distribution costs, and software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses, and excludes intangible asset amortization. Online Hosted Software Arrangements For our online hosted software arrangements, such as titles for the Overwatch, World of Warcraft, and Candy Crush franchises, substantially all gameplay and functionality are obtained through our continuous hosting of the game content for the player. In these instances, we typically have a single performance obligation related to our ongoing activities in the hosted arrangement, including content updates, hosting of the gameplay, online matchmaking, and access to the game content. Similar to our software products with online functionality, these arrangements may include other products and services, which often results in the recognition of additional performance obligations. Revenues related to online hosted software arrangements are generally recognized ratably over the estimated service period. In-game, Subscription, and Other Revenues In-game Revenues In-game revenues primarily includes revenues from microtransactions and downloadable content. Microtransaction revenues are derived from the sale of virtual currencies and goods to our players to enhance their gameplay experience. Proceeds from these sales of virtual currencies and goods are initially recorded in deferred revenue. Proceeds from the sales of virtual currencies are recognized as revenues when a player uses the virtual goods purchased with a virtual currency. Proceeds from the direct sales of virtual goods are similarly recognized as revenues when a player uses the virtual goods. We categorize our virtual goods as either “consumable” or “durable.” Consumable virtual goods represent goods that can be consumed by a specific player action; accordingly, we recognize revenues from the sale of consumable virtual goods as the goods are consumed and our performance obligation is satisfied. Durable virtual goods represent goods that are accessible to the player over an extended period of time; accordingly, we recognize revenues from the sale of durable virtual goods ratably over the period of time the goods are available to the player and our performance obligation is satisfied, which is generally the estimated service period. Subscription Revenues Subscription revenue arrangements are mostly derived from World of Warcraft , which is only playable online and is generally sold on a subscription-only basis. Revenues associated with the sales of subscriptions are deferred until the subscription service is activated by the consumer and are then recognized ratably over the subscription period as the performance obligations are satisfied. Revenues attributable to the purchase of World of Warcraft software by our customers, including expansion packs, are classified as “Product sales,” whereas revenues attributable to subscriptions and other in-game revenues are classified as “In-game, subscription, and other revenues.” Other Revenues Other revenues primarily include revenues from software licensing and licensing of intellectual property other than software. These revenues are recognized in "In-game, subscription, and other revenues" on our consolidated statement of operations. In certain countries we have software licensing arrangements where we utilize third-party licensees to distribute and host our games in accordance with license agreements, for which the licensees typically pay us a fixed minimum guarantee and sales-based royalties. These arrangements typically include multiple performance obligations, such as an upfront license of intellectual property and rights to specified or unspecified future updates. Our estimate of the selling price is comprised of several factors including, but not limited to, prior selling prices, prices charged separately by other third-party vendors for similar service offerings, and a cost-plus-margin approach. Based on the allocated transaction price, we recognize revenue associated with the minimum guarantee (1) when we transfer control of the upfront license of intellectual property, (2) upon transfer of control of future specified updates, and/or (3) ratably over the contractual term in which we provide the customer with unspecified future updates. Royalty payments in excess of the minimum guarantee are generally recognized when the licensed product is sold by the licensee. Revenues from the licensing of intellectual property other than software primarily include the licensing of our (1) brand, logo, or franchise to customers and (2) media content. Fixed fee payments from customers for the license of our brand or franchise are generally recognized over the license term. Fixed fee payments from customers for the license of our media content are generally recognized when control has transferred to the customer, which may be upfront or over time. Significant Judgment around Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables Our contracts with customers often include promises to transfer multiple products and services. Determining whether products and services are considered distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately versus together may require significant judgment. Certain of our games, such as titles in the Call of Duty franchise, may contain a license of our intellectual property to play the game offline, but may also depend on a significant level of integration and interdependency with the online functionality. In these cases, significant judgment is required to determine whether this license of our intellectual property should be considered distinct and accounted for separately, or not distinct and accounted for together with the online functionality provided and recognized over time. Generally, for titles in which the software license is functional without the online functionality and a significant component of gameplay is available offline, we believe we have separate performance obligations for the license of the intellectual property and the online functionality. Significant judgment is also required to determine the standalone selling price for each distinct performance obligation and to determine whether there is a discount that needs to be allocated based on the relative standalone selling price of the various products and services. To estimate the standalone selling price we generally consider market data, including our pricing strategies for the product being evaluated and other similar products we may offer, competitor pricing to the extent data is available, and the replayability design of both the offline and online components of our games. In limited instances, we may also utilize an expected cost approach to determine whether the estimated selling price yields an appropriate profit margin. Estimated Service Period We consider a variety of data points when determining the estimated service period for players of our games, including the weighted average number of days between players’ first and last days played online, the average total hours played, the average number of days in which player activity stabilizes, and the weighted-average number of days between players’ first purchase date and last date played online. We also consider known online trends, the service periods of our previously released games, and, to the extent publicly available, the service periods of our competitors’ games that are similar in nature to ours. We believe this provides a reasonable depiction of the transfer of services to our customers, as it is the best representation of the time period during which our customers play our games. Determining the estimated service period is subjective and requires management’s judgment. Future usage patterns may differ from historical usage patterns, and therefore the estimated service period may change in the future. The estimated service periods for players of our current games are less than 12 months. Principal Agent Considerations We evaluate sales of our products and content via third-party digital storefronts, such as Microsoft’s Xbox Games Store, Sony’s PSN, the Apple App Store, and the Google Play Store, to determine whether revenues should be reported gross or net of fees retained by the storefront. Key indicators that we evaluate in determining whether we are the principal in the sale (gross reporting) or an agent (net reporting) include, but are not limited to: • which party is primarily responsible for fulfilling the promise to provide the specified good or service; and • which party has discretion in establishing the price for the specified good or service. Based on our evaluation of the above indicators, we report revenues on a gross basis for sales arrangements via the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store, and we report revenues on a net basis (i.e., net of fees retained by the digital storefront) for sales arrangements via Microsoft’s Xbox Games Store and Sony’s PSN. Allowances for Returns and Price Protection We may permit product returns from, or grant price protection to, our customers under certain conditions. In general, price protection refers to the circumstances in which we elect to decrease, on a short- or longer-term basis, the wholesale price of a product by a certain amount and, when granted and applicable, allow customers a credit against amounts owed by such customers to us with respect to open and/or future invoices. The conditions our customers must meet to be granted the right to return products or receive price protection credits include, among other things, compliance with applicable trading and payment terms and delivery of sell-through reports to us. We may also consider the facilitation of slow-moving inventory and other market factors. Management uses judgment in estimates made with respect to potential future product returns and price protection related to current period product revenues and when establishing the allowance for returns and price protection. We estimate the amount of future returns and price protection for current period product revenues utilizing historical experience and information regarding inventory levels and the demand and acceptance of our products by the end consumer, and record revenue for the transferred products in the amount of consideration to which we expect to be entitled. Based upon historical experience, we believe that our estimates are reasonable. However, actual returns and price protection could vary from our allowance estimates and therefore impact the amount and timing of our revenues for any period if conditions change or if matters resolve in a manner that is inconsistent with management’s assumptions utilized in determining the allowances. Contract Balances We generally record a receivable related to revenue when we have an unconditional right to invoice and receive payment, and record deferred revenue when cash payments are received or due in advance of our performance, even if amounts are refundable. The allowance for doubtful accounts reflects our best estimate of expected credit losses inherent in our accounts receivable balance. In estimating the allowance for doubtful accounts, we analyze the age of current outstanding account balances, historical bad debts, customer concentrations, customer creditworthiness, current economic trends, and changes in our customers’ payment terms and their economic condition, as well as whether we can obtain sufficient credit insurance. Any significant changes in any of these criteria would affect management’s estimates in establishing our allowance for doubtful accounts. Deferred revenue is comprised primarily of unearned revenue related to the sale of products with online functionality or online hosted arrangements. We typically invoice, and collect payment for, these sales at the beginning of the contract period and recognize revenue ratably over the estimated service period. Deferred revenue also includes payments for: product sales pending delivery or activation; subscription revenues; licensing revenues with fixed minimum guarantees; and other revenues for which we have been paid in advance and earn the revenue when we transfer control of the product or service. Refer to Note 11 for further information, including changes in deferred revenue during the period. Shipping and Handling Shipping and handling costs consist primarily of packaging and transportation charges incurred to move finished goods to customers. We recognize all shipping and handling costs as an expense in “Cost of revenues-product costs,” including those incurred when control of the product has already transferred to the customer. Cost of Revenues Our cost of revenues consist of the following: Cost of revenues—product sales: (1) “Product costs” — includes the manufacturing costs of goods produced and sold. These generally include product costs, manufacturing royalties (net of volume discounts), personnel-related costs, warehousing, and distribution costs. We generally recognize volume discounts when they are earned (typically in connection with the achievement of unit-based milestones). (2) “Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses” — includes the amortization of capitalized software costs and royalties attributable to product sales revenues. These are costs capitalized on the balance sheet until the respective games are released, at which time the capitalized costs are amortized. Also included is amortization of intangible assets recognized in purchase accounting attributable to product sales revenues. Cost of revenues—in-game, subscription, and other revenues: (1) “Game operations and distribution costs” — includes costs to operate our games, such as customer service, Internet bandwidth and server costs, platform provider fees, and payment provider fees, along with costs to associated with our esports activities. (2) “Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses” — includes the amortization of capitalized software costs and royalties attributable to in-game, subscription, and other revenues. These are costs capitalized on the balance sheet until the respective games are released, at which time the capitalized costs are amortized. Also included is amortization of intangible assets recognized in purchase accounting attributable to in-game, subscription, and other revenues.
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment. Property and equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset (i.e . , 25 to 33 years for buildings, and 2 to 5 years for computer equipment, office furniture and other equipment). When assets are retired or disposed of, the cost and accumulated depreciation thereon are removed and any resulting gains or losses are included in the consolidated statements of operations. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated life of the asset, not to exceed the length of the lease. Repair and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.
Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Assets	Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Assets. Goodwill is considered to have an indefinite life and is carried at cost. Acquired trade names are assessed as indefinite lived assets if there are no foreseeable limits on the periods of time over which they are expected to contribute cash flows. Goodwill and indefinite-lived assets are not amortized, but are subject to an annual impairment test, as well as between annual tests when events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. We perform our annual impairment testing at December 31. Our annual goodwill impairment test is performed at the reporting unit level. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, our reporting units were the same as our operating segments. We generally test goodwill for possible impairment first by performing a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value. If a qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, a quantitative impairment test is performed. If a quantitative test is performed, we determine the fair value of the related reporting unit and compare this value to the recorded net assets of the reporting unit, including goodwill. The fair value of our reporting units is determined using an income approach based on discounted cash flow models. In the event the recorded net assets of the reporting unit exceed the estimated fair value of such assets, an impairment charge is recorded for this amount under revised accounting guidance effective for the year ended December 31, 2020, and future periods. Refer to Note 3 for further discussion on the revised accounting guidance. Based on our annual impairment assessment, no impairments of goodwill were identified for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018. We test our acquired trade names for possible impairment by applying the same process as for goodwill. In the instance when a qualitative test is not performed or is inconclusive, a quantitative test is performed by using a discounted cash flow model to estimate fair value of our acquired trade names. Based on our annual impairment assessment, no impairments of our acquired trade names were identified for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018. Changes in our assumptions underlying our estimates could result in future impairment charges.
Amortizable Intangible Assets and Other Long-lived Assets	Amortizable Intangible and Other Long-lived Assets. Intangible assets subject to amortization are carried at cost less accumulated amortization, and amortized over the estimated useful life in proportion to the economic benefits received.
Leases	Leases In February 2016, the FASB issued new guidance related to the accounting for leases. The new standard replaced all current U.S. GAAP guidance on this topic. On January 1, 2019, we adopted the new lease accounting standard. We determine if an arrangement is or contains a lease at contract inception. In certain of our lease arrangements, primarily those related to our data center arrangements, judgment is required in determining if a contract contains a lease. For these arrangements, there is judgment in evaluating if the arrangement provides us with an asset that is physically distinct, or that represents substantially all of the capacity of the asset, and if we have the right to direct the use of the asset. Lease assets and liabilities are recognized based on the present value of future lease payments over the lease term at the commencement date. Included in the lease liability are future lease payments that are fixed, in-substance fixed, or are payments based on an index or rate known at the commencement date of the lease. Variable lease payments are recognized as lease expenses as incurred, and generally relate to variable payments made based on the level of services provided by the landlords of our leases. The operating lease right-of-use (“ROU”) asset also includes any lease payments made prior to the lease commencement date, initial direct costs incurred, and lease incentives received. As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we generally use our incremental borrowing rate in determining the present value of future payments. The incremental borrowing rate represents an approximation of the rate that would be charged to borrow funds to purchase the leased asset over a similar term, and is based on the information available at the commencement date of the lease. For leased assets with similar lease terms and asset types, we applied a portfolio approach in determining a single incremental borrowing rate for the leased assets. In determining our lease liability, the lease term includes options to extend the lease when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise such option. For operating leases, the lease expense for minimum lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Finance lease assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated life of the asset, not to exceed the length of the lease, with interest expense associated with finance lease liabilities recorded using the effective interest method. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet and we recognize lease expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. We have lease agreements with lease and non-lease components. For our real estate, server and data center, and event production and broadcasting equipment leases, we elected the practical expedient to account for the lease and non-lease components as a single lease component. In all other lease arrangements, we account for lease and non-lease components separately. Additionally, for certain leases that have a group of leased assets with similar characteristics in size and composition, we may apply a portfolio approach to effectively account for the operating lease ROU assets and liabilities. Operating lease ROU assets are presented in “Other assets” and operating lease liabilities are presented in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” and “Other liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheet. Finance lease ROU assets are presented in “Property and equipment, net” and finance lease liabilities are presented in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” and “Other liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheet.
Advertising Expenses	Advertising Expenses We expense advertising as incurred, except for production costs associated with media advertising, which are deferred and charged to expense when the related advertisement is run for the first time. Advertising expenses for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018 were $746 million, $587 million, and $631 million, respectively, and are included in “Sales and marketing” in the consolidated statements of operations.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes We record a tax provision for the anticipated tax consequences of the reported results of operations. In accordance with ASC Topic 740, the provision for income taxes is computed using the asset and liability method, under which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating losses and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities due to a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. We evaluate deferred tax assets each period for recoverability. For those assets that do not meet the threshold of “more likely than not” that they will be realized in the future, a valuation allowance is recorded. We report a liability for unrecognized tax benefits resulting from uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. We recognize interest and penalties, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits in “Income tax expense.” The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “U.S. Tax Reform Act”) reduced the U.S. corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% beginning in 2018 and imposed a one-time tax on deemed repatriated earnings of foreign subsidiaries. Among other things, the U.S. Tax Reform Act also created a new minimum tax that applies to certain foreign earnings (“GILTI”). We have elected to recognize deferred taxes for temporary basis differences expected to reverse as GILTI in future years.
Foreign Currency Translation	Foreign Currency Translation All assets and liabilities of our foreign subsidiaries who have a functional currency other than U.S. dollars are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date, and revenue and expenses are translated at average exchange rates during the period. The resulting translation adjustments are reflected as a component of “Accumulated other comprehensive loss” in shareholders’ equity.
Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share	Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share “Basic (loss) earnings per common share” is computed by dividing income (loss) available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the periods presented. “Diluted earnings (loss) per common share” is computed by dividing income (loss) available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding, increased by the weighted-average number of common stock equivalents. Common stock equivalents are calculated using the treasury stock method and represent incremental shares issuable upon exercise of our outstanding options. However, potential common shares are not included in the denominator of the diluted earnings (loss) per common share calculation when inclusion of such shares would be anti-dilutive, such as in a period in which a net loss is recorded.
Share-Based Payments	Share-Based Payments We account for share-based payments in accordance with ASC Subtopic 718-10. Share-based compensation expense for a given grant is recognized over the requisite service period (that is, the period for which the employee is being compensated) and is based on the value of share-based payment awards after a reduction for estimated forfeitures. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and are revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. We generally estimate the value of stock options using a binomial-lattice model. This estimate is affected by our stock price, as well as assumptions regarding a number of highly complex and subjective variables, including our expected stock price volatility over the term of the awards and projected employee stock option exercise behaviors. We generally determine the fair value of restricted stock units based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant, reduced by the present value of the estimated future dividends during the vesting period. Certain restricted stock units granted to our employees vest based on the achievement of pre-established performance conditions, including those that are market-based. For performance-based restricted stock units not subject to market conditions, each quarter we update our assessment of the probability that the specified performance criteria will be achieved. We amortize the fair values of performance-based restricted stock units over the requisite service period, adjusting for estimated forfeitures for each separately vesting tranche of the award. For market-based restricted stock units, we estimate the fair value at the date of grant using a Monte Carlo valuation methodology and amortize those fair values over the requisite service period, adjusting for estimated forfeitures for each separately vesting tranche of the award. The Monte Carlo methodology that we use to estimate the fair value of market-based restricted stock units at the date of grant incorporates into the valuation the possibility that the market condition may not be satisfied. Provided that the requisite service is rendered, the total fair value of the market-based restricted stock units at the date of grant must be recognized as compensation expense even if the market condition is not achieved. However, the number of shares that ultimately vest can vary significantly with the performance of the specified market criteria. For share-based compensation grants that are liability classified, if any, we update our grant date valuation at each reporting period and recognize a cumulative catch-up adjustment for changes in the value related to the requisite service already rendered.
Loss Contingencies	Loss Contingencies ASC Topic 450 governs the disclosure of loss contingencies and accrual of loss contingencies in respect of litigation and other claims. We record an accrual for a potential loss when it is probable that a loss will occur and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. When the reasonable estimate of the potential loss is within a range of amounts, the minimum of the range of potential loss is accrued, unless a higher amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount within the range. Moreover, even if an accrual is not required, we provide additional disclosure related to litigation and other claims when it is reasonably possible (i.e., more than remote) that the outcomes of such litigation and other claims include potential material adverse impacts on us.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Recently adopted accounting pronouncements Cloud Computing Arrangements In August 2018, the FASB issued new guidance related to a customer’s accounting for implementation costs incurred in a cloud computing arrangement (i.e., hosting arrangement) that is a service contract. The new guidance requires customers to capitalize implementation costs for these arrangements by applying the same criteria that are utilized for existing internal-use software guidance. The capitalized costs are required to be amortized over the associated term of the arrangement, generally on a straight-line basis, with amortization of these costs presented in the same financial statement line item as other costs associated with the arrangement. We adopted the new standard under a prospective approach during the first quarter of 2020 and it did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Goodwill In January 2017, the FASB issued new guidance that eliminates Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Instead, if an entity forgoes a Step 0 test, that entity will be required to perform its annual or interim goodwill impairment test by (1) comparing the fair value of a reporting unit, as determined in Step 1 from the goodwill impairment test, with its carrying amount and (2) recognizing an impairment charge, if any, for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, not to exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. We adopted the new standard under a prospective approach during the first quarter of 2020 and it did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Financial Instruments - Credit Losses In June 2016, the FASB issued new guidance related to accounting for credit losses on financial instruments. The update replaces the existing incurred loss impairment model with a methodology that reflects a current expected credit losses model which requires the use of historical and forward-looking information to calculate credit loss estimates. It also eliminates the concept of other-than-temporary impairment and requires credit losses related to available-for-sale debt securities to be recorded through an allowance for credit losses rather than as a reduction in the amortized cost basis of the securities. These changes will generally result in earlier recognition of credit losses. We adopted the new standard under a modified retrospective basis, with the cumulative effect of adoption recorded as an adjustment to retained earnings during the first quarter of 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes In December 2019, the FASB issued new guidance which is intended to simplify various aspects to accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions to the general principles in Topic 740 f or recognizing deferred taxes for investments, performing an intraperiod allocation and calculating income taxes in interim periods

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Tabl

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Components of cash and cash equivalents	The following table summarizes the components of our cash and cash equivalents (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 2019 Cash $ 268 $ 437 Foreign government treasury bills 34 37 Money market funds 8,345 5,320 Cash and cash equivalents $ 8,647 $ 5,794

Software Development and Inte_2

Software Development and Intellectual Property Licenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Software Development Costs and Intellectual Property Licenses
Summary of the components of software development	The following table summarizes the components of our capitalized software development costs (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 2019 Internally-developed software costs $ 485 $ 345 Payments made to third-party software developers 27 31 Total software development costs $ 512 $ 376
Amortization of software development costs and intellectual property licenses	Amortization of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses was as follows (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Amortization of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses $ 263 $ 241 $ 501

Property and Equipment, Net (Ta

Property and Equipment, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and equipment, net	Property and equipment, net was comprised of the following (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 2019 Land $ 1 $ 1 Buildings 4 4 Leasehold improvements 246 252 Computer equipment 704 654 Office furniture and other equipment 95 91 Total cost of property and equipment 1,050 1,002 Less accumulated depreciation (841) (749) Property and equipment, net $ 209 $ 253

Intangible Assets, Net (Tables)

Intangible Assets, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]
Schedule of finite-lived intangible assets	Intangible assets, net consist of the following (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 Estimated Gross Accumulated Net Acquired definite-lived intangible assets: Internally-developed franchises 3 - 11 years $ 1,154 $ (1,151) $ 3 Developed software 2 - 5 years 601 (601) — Trade names 7 years 54 (40) 14 Other 1 - 10 years 19 (18) 1 Total definite-lived intangible assets $ 1,828 $ (1,810) $ 18 Acquired indefinite-lived intangible assets: Activision trademark Indefinite $ 386 Acquired trade names Indefinite 47 Total indefinite-lived intangible assets $ 433 Total intangible assets, net $ 451 At December 31, 2019 Estimated Gross Accumulated Net carrying Acquired definite-lived intangible assets: Internally-developed franchises 3 - 11 years $ 1,154 $ (1,105) $ 49 Developed software 2 - 5 years 601 (579) 22 Trade names 7 - 10 years 54 (30) 24 Other 1 - 15 years 19 (16) 3 Total definite-lived intangible assets $ 1,828 $ (1,730) $ 98 Acquired indefinite-lived intangible assets: Activision trademark Indefinite $ 386 Acquired trade names Indefinite 47 Total indefinite-lived intangible assets $ 433 Total intangible assets, net $ 531
Schedule of indefinite-lived intangible assets	Intangible assets, net consist of the following (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 Estimated Gross Accumulated Net Acquired definite-lived intangible assets: Internally-developed franchises 3 - 11 years $ 1,154 $ (1,151) $ 3 Developed software 2 - 5 years 601 (601) — Trade names 7 years 54 (40) 14 Other 1 - 10 years 19 (18) 1 Total definite-lived intangible assets $ 1,828 $ (1,810) $ 18 Acquired indefinite-lived intangible assets: Activision trademark Indefinite $ 386 Acquired trade names Indefinite 47 Total indefinite-lived intangible assets $ 433 Total intangible assets, net $ 451 At December 31, 2019 Estimated Gross Accumulated Net carrying Acquired definite-lived intangible assets: Internally-developed franchises 3 - 11 years $ 1,154 $ (1,105) $ 49 Developed software 2 - 5 years 601 (579) 22 Trade names 7 - 10 years 54 (30) 24 Other 1 - 15 years 19 (16) 3 Total definite-lived intangible assets $ 1,828 $ (1,730) $ 98 Acquired indefinite-lived intangible assets: Activision trademark Indefinite $ 386 Acquired trade names Indefinite 47 Total indefinite-lived intangible assets $ 433 Total intangible assets, net $ 531
Schedule of finite lived intangible assets, future amortization expense	At December 31, 2020, future amortization of definite-lived intangible assets is estimated as follows (amounts in millions): 2021 $ 10 2022 6 2023 2 2024 — 2025 — Thereafter — Total $ 18

Goodwill (Tables)

Goodwill (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by operating segments	The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by operating segment are as follows (amounts in millions): Activision Blizzard King Total Balance at December 31, 2018 $ 6,897 $ 190 $ 2,675 $ 9,762 Other 1 — 1 2 Balance at December 31, 2019 $ 6,898 $ 190 $ 2,676 $ 9,764 Other 1 — — 1 Balance at December 31, 2020 $ 6,899 $ 190 $ 2,676 $ 9,765

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value, assets measured on a recurring and/or non-recurring basis	The table below segregates all of our financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis into the most appropriate level within the fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used to determine the fair value at the measurement date (amounts in millions): Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2020 Using As of December 31, 2020 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets Significant Other Observable Inputs Significant Unobservable Inputs Balance Sheet Financial Assets: Recurring fair value measurements: Money market funds $ 8,345 $ 8,345 $ — $ — Cash and cash equivalents Foreign government treasury bills 34 34 — — Cash and cash equivalents U.S. treasuries and government agency securities 164 164 — — Other current assets Total recurring fair value measurements $ 8,543 $ 8,543 $ — $ — Financial Liabilities: Foreign currency forward contracts not designated as hedges $ (2) $ — $ (2) $ — Accrued expenses and other liabilities Foreign currency forward contracts designated as hedges $ (24) $ — $ (24) $ — Accrued expenses and other liabilities Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2019 Using As of December 31, 2019 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets Significant Other Observable Inputs Significant Unobservable Inputs Balance Sheet Financial Assets: Recurring fair value measurements: Money market funds $ 5,320 $ 5,320 $ — $ — Cash and cash equivalents Foreign government treasury bills 37 37 — — Cash and cash equivalents U.S. treasuries and government agency securities 65 65 — — Other current assets Total recurring fair value measurements $ 5,422 $ 5,422 $ — $ — Financial Liabilities: Foreign currency forward contracts not designated as hedges $ (2) $ — $ (2) $ — Accrued expenses and other liabilities Foreign currency forward contracts designated as hedges $ (2) $ — $ (2) $ — Accrued expenses and other liabilities
Foreign currency forward contracts	The total gross notional amounts and fair values of our Cash Flow Hedges, all of which have remaining maturities of 11 months or less, are as follows (amounts in millions): As of December 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Notional amount Fair value gain (loss) Notional amount Fair value gain (loss) Foreign Currency: Buy USD, Sell Euro $ 542 $ (24) $ 350 $ (2) The total gross notional amounts and fair values of our foreign currency forward contracts not designated as hedges are as follows (amounts in millions): As of December 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Notional amount Fair value gain (loss) Notional amount Fair value gain (loss) Foreign Currency: Buy USD, Sell GBP $ 116 $ (2) $ 25 $ (2)
Net realized gains (losses) reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	The amounts of pre-tax net realized gains (losses) associated with our Cash Flow Hedges that were reclassified out of “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” and into earnings are as follows (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Statement of Operations Classification Cash Flow Hedges $ (3) $ 39 $ 7 Net revenues

Leases (Tables)

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Schedule of Lease Expense and Other Details Related to Operating Leases	Components of our lease costs are as follows (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Operating leases Operating lease costs $ 75 $ 75 Variable lease costs 20 20 Supplemental information related to our operating leases is as follows (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Supplemental Operating Cash Flows Information Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities $ 77 $ 80 ROU assets obtained in exchange for new lease obligations 80 65 At December 31, 2020 At December 31, 2019 Weighted Average Lease terms and discount rates Remaining lease term 4.48 years 5.00 years Discount rate 3.40 % 4.02 %
Schedule of Future Undiscounted Lease Payments For Operating Lease Liabilities And Reconciliation to Operating Lease Liabilities	Future undiscounted lease payments for our operating lease liabilities, and a reconciliation of these payments to our operating lease liabilities at December 31, 2020, are as follows (amounts in millions): For the years ending December 31, 2021 $ 75 2022 71 2023 64 2024 53 2025 33 Thereafter 18 Total future lease payments $ 314 Less imputed interest (24) Total lease liabilities $ 290
Schedule of ROU Assets and Lease Liabilities	Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities recorded on our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, were as follows (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 At December 31, 2019 Balance Sheet Classification ROU assets $ 243 $ 232 Other assets Current lease liabilities $ 66 $ 63 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Non-current lease liabilities 224 210 Other liabilities $ 290 $ 273 Total lease liabilities

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of debt	A summary of our outstanding unsecured notes is as follows (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 At December 31, 2019 Unsecured Senior Notes Interest Rate Semi-Annual Interest Payments Due On Maturity Principal Fair Value Principal Fair Value 2021 Notes 2.30% Mar. 15 & Sept. 15 Sept. 2021 $ — $ — $ 650 $ 653 2022 Notes 2.60% Jun. 15 & Dec. 15 Jun. 2022 — — 400 405 2026 Notes 3.40% Mar. 15 & Sept. 15 Sept. 2026 850 970 850 893 2027 Notes 3.40% Jun. 15 & Dec. 15 Jun. 2027 400 454 400 417 2030 Notes 1.35% Mar. 15 & Sept. 15 Sept. 2030 500 490 — — 2047 Notes 4.50% Jun. 15 & Dec. 15 Jun. 2047 400 525 400 456 2050 Notes 2.50% Mar. 15 & Sept. 15 Sept. 2050 1,500 1,462 — — Total gross long-term debt $ 3,650 $ 2,700 Unamortized discount and deferred financing costs (45) (25) Total net carrying amount $ 3,605 $ 2,675

Accumulated Other Comprehensi_2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Schedule of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) were as follows (amounts in millions): For the Year Ended December 31, 2020 Foreign currency Unrealized gain (loss) Unrealized gain (loss) Total Balance at December 31, 2019 $ (624) $ (3) $ 8 $ (619) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 37 (6) (39) (8) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings (2) 4 3 5 Balance at December 31, 2020 $ (589) $ (5) $ (28) $ (622) For the Year Ended December 31, 2019 Foreign currency Unrealized gain (loss) Unrealized gain (loss) Total Balance at December 31, 2018 $ (629) $ 5 $ 23 $ (601) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 5 — 24 29 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings — (8) (39) (47) Balance at December 31, 2019 $ (624) $ (3) $ 8 $ (619)

Operating Segments and Geogra_2

Operating Segments and Geographic Regions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of operating segments and reconciliations of total net revenues and total segment operating income to consolidated net revenues from external customers and consolidated income before income tax expense	Information on the reportable segment net revenues and segment operating income are presented below (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Activision Blizzard King Total Segment Revenues Net revenues from external customers $ 3,942 $ 1,794 $ 2,164 $ 7,900 Intersegment net revenues (1) — 111 — 111 Segment net revenues $ 3,942 $ 1,905 $ 2,164 $ 8,011 Segment operating income $ 1,868 $ 693 $ 857 $ 3,418 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Activision Blizzard King Total Segment Revenues Net revenues from external customers $ 2,219 $ 1,676 $ 2,031 $ 5,926 Intersegment net revenues (1) — 43 — 43 Segment net revenues $ 2,219 $ 1,719 $ 2,031 $ 5,969 Segment operating income $ 850 $ 464 $ 740 $ 2,054 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Activision Blizzard King Total Segment Revenues Net revenues from external customers $ 2,458 $ 2,238 $ 2,086 $ 6,782 Intersegment net revenues (1) — 53 — 53 Segment net revenues $ 2,458 $ 2,291 $ 2,086 $ 6,835 Segment operating income $ 1,011 $ 685 $ 750 $ 2,446 (1) Intersegment revenues reflect licensing and service fees charged between segments. Reconciliations of total segment net revenues and total segment operating income to consolidated net revenues and consolidated income before income tax expense are presented in the table below (amounts in millions): Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Reconciliation to consolidated net revenues: Segment net revenues $ 8,011 $ 5,969 $ 6,835 Revenues from non-reportable segments (1) 519 462 480 Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues (2) (333) 101 238 Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) (111) (43) (53) Consolidated net revenues $ 8,086 $ 6,489 $ 7,500 Reconciliation to consolidated income before income tax expense: Segment operating income $ 3,418 $ 2,054 $ 2,446 Operating income from non-reportable segments (1) (55) 24 31 Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues and related cost of revenues (2) (238) 52 100 Share-based compensation expense ( Note 16 ) (218) (166) (209) Amortization of intangible assets (79) (203) (370) Restructuring and related costs ( Note 17 ) (94) (137) (10) Discrete tax-related items (4) — (17) — Consolidated operating income 2,734 1,607 1,988 Interest and other expense (income), net 87 (26) 71 Loss on extinguishment of debt 31 — 40 Consolidated income before income tax expense $ 2,616 $ 1,633 $ 1,877 (1) Includes other income and expenses from operating segments managed outside the reportable segments, including our Distribution business. Also includes unallocated corporate income and expenses. (2) Reflects the net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues, along with related cost of revenues, on certain of our online-enabled products. (3) Intersegment revenues reflect licensing and service fees charged between segments. (4) Reflects the impact of other unusual or unique tax-related items and activities.
Schedule of net revenues by distribution channels	Net revenues by distribution channel, including a reconciliation to each of our reportable segment’s net revenues, were as follows (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) Total Net revenues by distribution channel: Digital online channels (1) $ 2,930 $ 1,672 $ 2,167 $ — $ (111) $ 6,658 Retail channels 702 39 — — — 741 Other (2) 57 92 — 538 — 687 Total consolidated net revenues $ 3,689 $ 1,803 $ 2,167 $ 538 $ (111) $ 8,086 Change in deferred revenues: Digital online channels (1) $ 365 $ 102 $ (3) $ — $ — $ 464 Retail channels (112) — — — — (112) Other (2) — — — (19) — (19) Total change in deferred revenues $ 253 $ 102 $ (3) $ (19) $ — $ 333 Segment net revenues: Digital online channels (1) $ 3,295 $ 1,774 $ 2,164 $ — $ (111) $ 7,122 Retail channels 590 39 — — — 629 Other (2) 57 92 — 519 — 668 Total segment net revenues $ 3,942 $ 1,905 $ 2,164 $ 519 $ (111) $ 8,419 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) Total Net revenues by distribution channel: Digital online channels (1) $ 1,366 $ 1,580 $ 2,029 $ — $ (43) $ 4,932 Retail channels 818 91 — — — 909 Other (2) 3 181 — 464 — 648 Total consolidated net revenues $ 2,187 $ 1,852 $ 2,029 $ 464 $ (43) $ 6,489 Change in deferred revenues: Digital online channels (1) $ 122 $ (128) $ 2 $ — $ — $ (4) Retail channels (90) (5) — — — (95) Other (2) — — — (2) — (2) Total change in deferred revenues $ 32 $ (133) $ 2 $ (2) $ — $ (101) Segment net revenues: Digital online channels (1) $ 1,488 $ 1,452 $ 2,031 $ — $ (43) $ 4,928 Retail channels 728 86 — — — 814 Other (2) 3 181 — 462 — 646 Total segment net revenues $ 2,219 $ 1,719 $ 2,031 $ 462 $ (43) $ 6,388 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) Total Net revenues by distribution channel: Digital online channels (1) $ 1,740 $ 2,009 $ 2,090 $ — $ (53) $ 5,786 Retail channels 998 109 — — — 1,107 Other (2) — 148 — 459 — 607 Total consolidated net revenues $ 2,738 $ 2,266 $ 2,090 $ 459 $ (53) $ 7,500 Change in deferred revenues: Digital online channels (1) $ (96) $ 32 $ (4) $ — $ — $ (68) Retail channels (184) (7) — — — (191) Other (2) — — — 21 — 21 Total change in deferred revenues $ (280) $ 25 $ (4) $ 21 $ — $ (238) Segment net revenues: Digital online channels (1) $ 1,644 $ 2,041 $ 2,086 $ — $ (53) $ 5,718 Retail channels 814 102 — — — 916 Other (2) — 148 — 480 — 628 Total segment net revenues $ 2,458 $ 2,291 $ 2,086 $ 480 $ (53) $ 7,262 (1) Net revenues from “Digital online channels” include revenues from digitally-distributed downloadable content, microtransactions, subscriptions, and products, as well as licensing royalties. (2) Net revenues from “Other” primarily includes revenues from our Distribution business, the Overwatch League, and the Call of Duty League. (3) Intersegment revenues reflect licensing and service fees charged between segments.
Schedule of net revenues from external customers by geographic region	Net revenues by geographic region, including a reconciliation to each of our reportable segment’s net revenues, were as follows (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (2) Total Net revenues by geographic region: Americas $ 2,316 $ 794 $ 1,384 $ — $ (60) $ 4,434 EMEA (1) 1,061 550 568 538 (37) 2,680 Asia Pacific 312 459 215 — (14) 972 Total consolidated net revenues $ 3,689 $ 1,803 $ 2,167 $ 538 $ (111) $ 8,086 Change in deferred revenues: Americas $ 228 $ 58 $ (1) $ — $ — $ 285 EMEA (1) 36 43 (1) (19) — 59 Asia Pacific (11) 1 (1) — — (11) Total change in deferred revenues $ 253 $ 102 $ (3) $ (19) $ — $ 333 Segment net revenues: Americas $ 2,544 $ 852 $ 1,383 $ — $ (60) $ 4,719 EMEA (1) 1,097 593 567 519 (37) 2,739 Asia Pacific 301 460 214 — (14) 961 Total segment net revenues $ 3,942 $ 1,905 $ 2,164 $ 519 $ (111) $ 8,419 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (2) Total Net revenues by geographic region: Americas $ 1,286 $ 822 $ 1,254 $ — $ (21) $ 3,341 EMEA (1) 691 543 557 464 (16) 2,239 Asia Pacific 210 487 218 — (6) 909 Total consolidated net revenues $ 2,187 $ 1,852 $ 2,029 $ 464 $ (43) $ 6,489 Change in deferred revenues: Americas $ 16 $ (62) $ 2 $ — $ — $ (44) EMEA (1) 12 (57) — (2) — (47) Asia Pacific 4 (14) — — — (10) Total change in deferred revenues $ 32 $ (133) $ 2 $ (2) $ — $ (101) Segment net revenues: Americas $ 1,302 $ 760 $ 1,256 $ — $ (21) $ 3,297 EMEA (1) 703 486 557 462 (16) 2,192 Asia Pacific 214 473 218 — (6) 899 Total segment net revenues $ 2,219 $ 1,719 $ 2,031 $ 462 $ (43) $ 6,388 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (2) Total Net revenues by geographic region: Americas $ 1,622 $ 1,004 $ 1,269 $ 13 $ (28) $ 3,880 EMEA (1) 897 692 599 446 (16) 2,618 Asia Pacific 219 570 222 — (9) 1,002 Total consolidated net revenues $ 2,738 $ 2,266 $ 2,090 $ 459 $ (53) $ 7,500 Change in deferred revenues: Americas $ (163) $ 15 $ (3) $ — $ — $ (151) EMEA (1) (127) 16 (1) 21 — (91) Asia Pacific 10 (6) — — — 4 Total change in deferred revenues $ (280) $ 25 $ (4) $ 21 $ — $ (238) Segment net revenues: Americas $ 1,459 $ 1,019 $ 1,266 $ 13 $ (28) $ 3,729 EMEA (1) 770 708 598 467 (16) 2,527 Asia Pacific 229 564 222 — (9) 1,006 Total segment net revenues $ 2,458 $ 2,291 $ 2,086 $ 480 $ (53) $ 7,262 (1) “EMEA” consists of the Europe, Middle East, and Africa geographic regions. (2) Intersegment revenues reflect licensing and service fees charged between segments.
Schedule of net revenues by platform	Net revenues by platform, including a reconciliation to each of our reportable segment’s net revenues, were as follows (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) Total Net revenues by platform: Console $ 2,668 $ 116 $ — $ — $ — $ 2,784 PC 582 1,489 96 — (111) 2,056 Mobile and ancillary (1) 382 106 2,071 — — 2,559 Other (2) 57 92 — 538 — 687 Total consolidated net revenues $ 3,689 $ 1,803 $ 2,167 $ 538 $ (111) $ 8,086 Change in deferred revenues: Console $ 140 $ (8) $ — $ — $ — $ 132 PC 64 115 — — — 179 Mobile and ancillary (1) 49 (5) (3) — — 41 Other (2) — — — (19) — (19) Total change in deferred revenues $ 253 $ 102 $ (3) $ (19) $ — $ 333 Segment net revenues: Console $ 2,808 $ 108 $ — $ — $ — $ 2,916 PC 646 1,604 96 — (111) 2,235 Mobile and ancillary (1) 431 101 2,068 — — 2,600 Other (2) 57 92 — 519 — 668 Total segment net revenues $ 3,942 $ 1,905 $ 2,164 $ 519 $ (111) $ 8,419 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) Total Net revenues by platform: Console $ 1,783 $ 137 $ — $ — $ — $ 1,920 PC 298 1,346 117 — (43) 1,718 Mobile and ancillary (1) 103 188 1,912 — — 2,203 Other (2) 3 181 — 464 — 648 Total consolidated net revenues $ 2,187 $ 1,852 $ 2,029 $ 464 $ (43) $ 6,489 Change in deferred revenues: Console $ (36) $ (18) $ — $ — $ — $ (54) PC 57 (110) — — — (53) Mobile and ancillary (1) 11 (5) 2 — — 8 Other (2) — — — (2) — (2) Total change in deferred revenues $ 32 $ (133) $ 2 $ (2) $ — $ (101) Segment net revenues: Console $ 1,747 $ 119 $ — $ — $ — $ 1,866 PC 355 1,236 117 — (43) 1,665 Mobile and ancillary (1) 114 183 1,914 — — 2,211 Other (2) 3 181 — 462 — 646 Total segment net revenues $ 2,219 $ 1,719 $ 2,031 $ 462 $ (43) $ 6,388 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Activision Blizzard King Non-reportable segments Elimination of intersegment revenues (3) Total Net revenues by platform: Console $ 2,351 $ 187 $ — $ — $ — $ 2,538 PC 368 1,711 154 — (53) 2,180 Mobile and ancillary (1) 19 220 1,936 — — 2,175 Other (2) — 148 — 459 — 607 Total consolidated net revenues $ 2,738 $ 2,266 $ 2,090 $ 459 $ (53) $ 7,500 Change in deferred revenues: Console $ (257) $ (8) $ — $ — $ — $ (265) PC (23) 33 (1) — — 9 Mobile and ancillary (1) — — (3) — — (3) Other (2) — — — 21 — 21 Total change in deferred revenues $ (280) $ 25 $ (4) $ 21 $ — $ (238) Segment net revenues: Console $ 2,094 $ 179 $ — $ — $ — $ 2,273 PC 345 1,744 153 — (53) 2,189 Mobile and ancillary (1) 19 220 1,933 — — 2,172 Other (2) — 148 — 480 — 628 Total segment net revenues $ 2,458 $ 2,291 $ 2,086 $ 480 $ (53) $ 7,262 (1) Net revenues from “Mobile and ancillary” include revenues from mobile devices, as well as non-platform specific game-related revenues, such as standalone sales of physical merchandise and accessories. (2) Net revenues from “Other” primarily includes revenues from our Distribution business, the Overwatch League, and the Call of Duty League. (3) Intersegment revenues reflect licensing and service fees charged between segments.
Long-lived assets by geographic region	Long-lived assets by geographic region were as follows (amounts in millions): At December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Long-lived assets* by geographic region: Americas $ 270 $ 322 $ 203 EMEA 166 142 62 Asia Pacific 17 21 17 Total long-lived assets by geographic region $ 453 $ 485 $ 282

Share-Based Payments (Tables)

Share-Based Payments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Schedule of stock option valuation assumptions and weighted-average grant date fair value	The following table presents the weighted-average assumptions, weighted average grant date fair value, and the range of expected stock price volatility: Employee Stock Options For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Expected life (in years) 7.70 7.85 7.64 Volatility 30.89 % 30.00 % 32.37 % Risk free interest rate 0.70 % 1.90 % 3.10 % Dividend yield 0.53 % 0.76 % 0.61 % Weighted-average grant date fair value $ 25.93 $ 17.12 $ 21.03 Stock price volatility range: Low 30.00 % 30.00 % 31.72 % High 39.00 % 38.17 % 36.73 %
Schedule of stock option activity	Stock option activity is as follows: Number of shares (in thousands) Weighted-average Weighted-average Aggregate Outstanding stock options at December 31, 2019 14,029 $ 44.31 Granted 2,419 78.19 Exercised (4,543) 37.49 Forfeited (573) 52.98 Expired (35) 52.68 Outstanding stock options at December 31, 2020 11,297 $ 53.84 7.68 $ 441 Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2020 10,669 $ 53.05 7.60 $ 425 Exercisable at December 31, 2020 3,710 $ 41.56 5.75 $ 190
Schedule of restricted stock units activity	The following table summarizes our RSU activity with performance-based RSUs, including those with market conditions, presented at 100% of the target level shares that may potentially vest (amounts in thousands, except per share data): Number of shares Weighted- Unvested RSUs at December 31, 2019 7,181 $ 54.23 Granted 2,254 201.25 Vested (1,513) 49.76 Forfeited (820) 55.39 Unvested RSUs at December 31, 2020 7,102 $ 82.50
Schedule of share-based compensation expense	The following table sets forth the total share-based compensation expense included in our consolidated statements of operations (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Cost of revenues—product sales: Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses $ 14 $ 19 $ 13 Cost of revenues—in-game, subscription, and other: Game Operations and Distribution Costs 1 1 2 Cost of revenues—in-game, subscription, and other: Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses — 1 3 Product development 42 53 61 Sales and marketing 21 10 15 General and administrative 140 82 115 Share-based compensation expense before income taxes 218 166 209 Income tax benefit (28) (29) (46) Total share-based compensation expense, net of income tax benefit $ 190 $ 137 $ 163

Restructuring (Tables)

Restructuring (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Schedule of Accrued Restructuring Included in Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities and Charges by Reportable Segment	The following table summarizes accrued restructuring and related costs included in “Accrued expenses and other liabilities” in our consolidated balance sheet (amounts in millions) related to this plan: Severance and employee related costs Facilities and related costs Other costs Total Balance at December 31, 2018 $ — $ — $ — $ — Costs charged to expense 76 29 27 132 Cash payments (44) — (12) (56) Non-cash charge adjustment (1) — (29) (12) (41) Balance at December 31, 2019 $ 32 $ — $ 3 $ 35 Costs charged to expense 76 6 5 87 Cash payments (20) — (5) (25) Non-cash charge adjustment (1) — (6) — (6) Balance at December 31, 2020 $ 88 $ — $ 3 $ 91 Cumulative charges incurred through December 31, 2020 $ 152 $ 35 $ 32 $ 219 (1) Adjustments relate to non-cash charges included in “Costs charged to expense” for the write-down of assets from canceled projects and the write-down of assets for our lease facilities, inclusive of lease right-of-use assets and associated fixed assets, that were vacated.
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs by Segment and Expected Pre-tax Restructuring Charges	Total restructuring and related costs by segment are (amounts in millions): Year Ended December 31, 2020 Year Ended December 31, 2019 Activision $ 13 $ 19 Blizzard 71 68 King (1) 20 Other segments (1) 4 25 Total $ 87 $ 132 (1) Includes charges for operating segments managed outside the reportable segments and our corporate and administrative functions. The total charges incurred through December 31, 2020 and total expected pre-tax restructuring charges related to the plan by segment, inclusive of amounts already incurred and inclusive of the inventory write-down discussed above, are presented below (amounts in millions): Total Charges Incurred Through December 31, 2020 Total Charges Expected as of December 31, 2020 Activision $ 32 $ 42 Blizzard 144 200 King 19 25 Other segments (1) 29 43 Total $ 224 $ 310 (1) Includes charges for operating segments managed outside the reportable segments and our corporate and administrative functions.

Interest and Other Expense (I_2

Interest and Other Expense (Income), Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Interest and other investment income (expense)	Interest and other expense (income), net is comprised of the following (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Interest income $ (21) $ (79) $ (65) Interest expense from debt and amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 99 90 140 Unrealized gain on equity investment (3) (38) — Other expense (income), net 12 1 (4) Interest and other expense (income), net $ 87 $ (26) $ 71

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of domestic and foreign income (loss) and income tax expense (benefit)	Domestic and foreign income (loss) before income taxes and details of the income tax expense (benefit) are as follows (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Income before income tax expense: Domestic $ 1,160 $ 328 $ 432 Foreign 1,456 1,305 1,445 $ 2,616 $ 1,633 $ 1,877 Income tax expense (benefit): Current: Federal $ 206 $ 136 $ (208) State 92 24 (15) Foreign 218 323 280 Total current 516 483 57 Deferred: Federal (84) 781 (153) State (10) (16) 106 Foreign (3) (1,118) 19 Total deferred (97) (353) (28) Income tax expense $ 419 $ 130 $ 29
Reconciliation of income taxes at the U.S. federal statutory rate to income tax expense (benefit)	The items accounting for the difference between income taxes computed at the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate and the income tax expense (benefit) at the effective tax rate for each of the years are as follows (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Federal income tax provision at statutory rate $ 549 21 % $ 343 21 % $ 394 21 % State taxes, net of federal benefit 49 2 20 1 36 2 Research and development credits (70) (3) (38) (2) (46) (2) Foreign rate differential (103) (4) (104) (7) (198) (11) Foreign-derived intangible income (40) (2) (1) — — — Change in tax reserves 60 2 96 6 285 15 Audit settlements — — 54 3 (115) (6) Excess tax benefits related to share-based payments (30) (1) (2) — (58) (3) U.S. Tax Reform Act — — — — (340) (18) Change in valuation allowance 35 2 11 1 61 3 Intra-entity IP Transfer (31) (1) (230) (14) — — Other — — (19) (1) 10 1 Income tax expense $ 419 16 % $ 130 8 % $ 29 2 %
Schedule of the components of the net deferred tax assets (liabilities)	The components of the net deferred tax assets (liabilities) are as follows (amounts in millions): As of December 31, 2020 2019 Deferred tax assets: Deferred revenue $ 274 $ 119 Tax attributes carryforwards 123 93 Share-based compensation 51 54 Intangibles 1,287 1,289 Capitalized software development expenses 21 67 Other 160 156 Deferred tax assets 1,916 1,778 Valuation allowance (228) (181) Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance 1,688 1,597 Deferred tax liabilities: Intangibles (147) (142) U.S. deferred taxes on foreign earnings (577) (594) Other (63) (73) Deferred tax liabilities (787) (809) Net deferred tax assets $ 901 $ 788
Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits for the period	A reconciliation of total gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (amounts in millions): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Unrecognized tax benefits balance at January 1 $ 1,037 $ 926 $ 1,138 Gross increase for tax positions taken during a prior year 97 151 103 Gross decrease for tax positions taken during a prior year (1) (168) (123) Gross increase for tax positions taken during the current year 38 291 132 Settlement with taxing authorities (3) (163) (312) Lapse of statute of limitations (2) — (12) Unrecognized tax benefits balance at December 31 $ 1,166 $ 1,037 $ 926

Computation of Basic_Diluted _2

Computation of Basic/Diluted Earnings Per Common Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share (amounts in millions, except per share data): For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Numerator: Consolidated net income $ 2,197 $ 1,503 $ 1,848 Denominator: Denominator for basic earnings per common share—weighted-average common shares outstanding 771 767 762 Effect of dilutive stock options and awards under the treasury stock method 7 4 9 Denominator for diluted earnings per common share—weighted-average common shares outstanding plus dilutive common shares under the treasury stock method 778 771 771 Basic earnings per common share $ 2.85 $ 1.96 $ 2.43 Diluted earnings per common share $ 2.82 $ 1.95 $ 2.40
Schedule of antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	Weighted-average shares excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share were as follows (amounts in millions): For the For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 2019 2018 Restricted stock units with performance measures not yet met 2 2 4 Anti-dilutive employee stock options 1 6 3

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of future minimum commitments under non-cancelable operating lease agreements and other contractual arrangements	Assuming all contractual provisions are met, the total future minimum commitments for these and other contractual arrangements in place at December 31, 2020, are scheduled to be paid as follows (amounts in millions): Contractual Obligations (1) Facility and Developer and Hosting Marketing Long-Term Debt Obligations (2) Total For the years ending December 31, 2021 $ 77 $ 95 $ 158 $ 109 $ 439 2022 72 84 166 105 427 2023 65 85 66 105 321 2024 54 3 — 105 162 2025 33 — — 105 138 Thereafter 19 — — 5,057 5,076 Total $ 320 $ 267 $ 390 $ 5,586 $ 6,563 (1) We have omitted uncertain income tax liabilities from this table due to the inherent uncertainty regarding the timing of the potential issue resolution of the underlying matters. Specifically, either (a) the underlying positions have not been fully developed under audit to quantify at this time or (b) the years relating to the matters for certain jurisdictions are not currently under audit. At December 31, 2020, we had $466 million of net unrecognized tax benefits included in “Other liabilities,” in our consolidated balance sheet. Additionally, at December 31, 2020, we have a remaining net Transition Tax liability of $153 million associated with the U.S. Tax Reform Act. The remaining Transition Tax liability is payable over the next six years and is not reflected in our Contractual Obligations table above. (2) Long-term debt obligations represent our obligations related to the contractual principal repayments and interest payments for our outstanding unsecured notes, which are subject to fixed interest rates, as of December 31, 2020. There was no outstanding balance under our Revolver as of December 31, 2020. We have calculated the expected interest obligation based on the outstanding principal balance and interest rate applicable at December 31, 2020. Refer to Note 13 for additional information on our debt obligations.

Description of Business (Detail

Description of Business (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020segment
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments	3

Summary of Significant Accoun_3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial Instruments
Maximum contractual terms of foreign exchange forward contracts	1 year
Minimum
Capitalized Software Development Costs [Line Items]
Amortization period for capitalized software development costs	6 months
Maximum
Capitalized Software Development Costs [Line Items]
Amortization period for capitalized software development costs	2 years
Sony | Consolidated net revenues
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of concentration risk	17.00%	11.00%	13.00%
Sony | Consolidated gross receivables
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of concentration risk	21.00%	18.00%
Apple | Consolidated net revenues
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of concentration risk	15.00%	17.00%	15.00%
Google | Consolidated net revenues
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of concentration risk	14.00%	13.00%	11.00%
Microsoft | Consolidated net revenues
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of concentration risk	11.00%
Microsoft | Consolidated gross receivables
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of concentration risk	28.00%	11.00%

Summary of Significant Accoun_4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Long-Lived Assets (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Buildings | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life	25 years
Buildings | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life	33 years
Computer equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life	2 years
Computer equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life	5 years
Office furniture and other equipment. | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life	2 years
Office furniture and other equipment. | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life	5 years

Summary of Significant Accoun_5

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Assets (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill impairment	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Trade names
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Summary of Significant Accoun_6

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Definite-Lived Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Finite-lived intangible asset impairment	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Summary of Significant Accoun_7

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Revenue Recognition (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Minimum
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Payment terms (in days)	30 days
Maximum
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Payment terms (in days)	90 days

Summary of Significant Accoun_8

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Estimated Service Period (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020
Revenue, Performance Obligation [Abstract]
Estimated service period over which revenues are recognized (less than)	12 months

Summary of Significant Accoun_9

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Advertising Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Marketing and Advertising Expense [Abstract]
Advertising expense included in sales and marketing expense	$ 746	$ 587	$ 631

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Deta

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash	$ 268	$ 437
Foreign government treasury bills	34	37
Money market funds	8,345	5,320
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 8,647	$ 5,794

Software Development and Inte_3

Software Development and Intellectual Property Licenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Software development and intellectual property licenses:
Internally-developed software costs	$ 485	$ 345
Payments made to third-party software developers	27	31
Total software development costs	512	376
Amortization:
Amortization of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses	$ 263	$ 241	$ 501

Property and Equipment, Net (De

Property and Equipment, Net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost of property and equipment	$ 1,050	$ 1,002
Less accumulated depreciation	(841)	(749)
Property and equipment, net	209	253
Depreciation expense	117	124	$ 138
Land
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost of property and equipment	1	1
Buildings
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost of property and equipment	4	4
Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost of property and equipment	246	252
Computer equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost of property and equipment	704	654
Office furniture and other equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost of property and equipment	$ 95	$ 91

Intangible Assets, Net (Details

Intangible Assets, Net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets	$ 1,828	$ 1,828
Accumulated amortization, definite-lived intangible assets	(1,810)	(1,730)
Net carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets	18	98
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	433	433
Total intangible assets, net	451	531
Amortization expense disclosure
Amortization expense	80	204	$ 371
Activision trademark
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	386	386
Acquired trade names
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	47	47
Internally-developed franchises
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets	1,154	1,154
Accumulated amortization, definite-lived intangible assets	(1,151)	(1,105)
Net carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets	$ 3	$ 49
Internally-developed franchises | Minimum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	3 years	3 years
Internally-developed franchises | Maximum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	11 years	11 years
Developed software
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets	$ 601	$ 601
Accumulated amortization, definite-lived intangible assets	(601)	(579)
Net carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets	$ 0	$ 22
Developed software | Minimum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	2 years	2 years
Developed software | Maximum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	5 years	5 years
Acquired trade names
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	7 years
Gross carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets	$ 54	$ 54
Accumulated amortization, definite-lived intangible assets	(40)	(30)
Net carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets	14	$ 24
Acquired trade names | Minimum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life		7 years
Acquired trade names | Maximum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life		10 years
Other
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets	19	$ 19
Accumulated amortization, definite-lived intangible assets	(18)	(16)
Net carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets	$ 1	$ 3
Other | Minimum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	1 year	1 year
Other | Maximum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	10 years	15 years

Intangible Assets, Net - Future

Intangible Assets, Net - Future Amortization Schedule (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Definite-lived intangible assets, future amortization expense disclosure
2021	$ 10
2022	6
2023	2
2024	0
2025	0
Thereafter	0
Net carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets	$ 18	$ 98

Goodwill (Details)

Goodwill (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Changes in carrying amount of goodwill
Goodwill, balance at beginning of period	$ 9,764,000,000	$ 9,762,000,000
Other	1,000,000	2,000,000
Goodwill, balance at end of period	9,765,000,000	9,764,000,000
Accumulated impairment losses	0	0	$ 0
Activision
Changes in carrying amount of goodwill
Goodwill, balance at beginning of period	6,898,000,000	6,897,000,000
Other	1,000,000	1,000,000
Goodwill, balance at end of period	6,899,000,000	6,898,000,000
Blizzard
Changes in carrying amount of goodwill
Goodwill, balance at beginning of period	190,000,000	190,000,000
Other	0	0
Goodwill, balance at end of period	190,000,000	190,000,000
King
Changes in carrying amount of goodwill
Goodwill, balance at beginning of period	2,676,000,000	2,675,000,000
Other	0	1,000,000
Goodwill, balance at end of period	$ 2,676,000,000	$ 2,676,000,000

Other Assets and Liabilities (D

Other Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Other Assets and Liabilities
Accrued payroll related costs	$ 406	$ 395
Income tax payable, current	$ 100	$ 436

Fair Value Measurements - Recur

Fair Value Measurements - Recurring Basis (Details) - Recurring - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	$ 8,543	$ 5,422
Fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	8,543	5,422
Fair value measurements using significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	0	0
Fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents | Money market funds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	8,345	5,320
Cash and cash equivalents | Foreign government treasury bills
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	34	37
Cash and cash equivalents | Fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | Money market funds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	8,345	5,320
Cash and cash equivalents | Fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | Foreign government treasury bills
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	34	37
Cash and cash equivalents | Fair value measurements using significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Money market funds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents | Fair value measurements using significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Foreign government treasury bills
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents | Fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Money market funds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents | Fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Foreign government treasury bills
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	0	0
Other current assets | U.S. treasuries and government agency securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	164	65
Other current assets | Fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | U.S. treasuries and government agency securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	164	65
Other current assets | Fair value measurements using significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | U.S. treasuries and government agency securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	0	0
Other current assets | Fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | U.S. treasuries and government agency securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets at fair value	0	0
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | Foreign currency forward contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, gain loss included in earnings
Total liabilities at fair value	(2)	(2)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | Foreign currency forward contracts | Designated as Hedges
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, gain loss included in earnings
Total liabilities at fair value	(24)	(2)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | Fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | Foreign currency forward contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, gain loss included in earnings
Total liabilities at fair value	0	0
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | Fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | Foreign currency forward contracts | Designated as Hedges
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, gain loss included in earnings
Total liabilities at fair value	0	0
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | Fair value measurements using significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Foreign currency forward contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, gain loss included in earnings
Total liabilities at fair value	(2)	(2)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | Fair value measurements using significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Foreign currency forward contracts | Designated as Hedges
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, gain loss included in earnings
Total liabilities at fair value	(24)	(2)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | Fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Foreign currency forward contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, gain loss included in earnings
Total liabilities at fair value	0	0
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | Fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Foreign currency forward contracts | Designated as Hedges
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, gain loss included in earnings
Total liabilities at fair value	$ 0	$ 0

Fair Value Measurements - Forei

Fair Value Measurements - Foreign Currency Forward Contracts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total net revenues	$ 8,086	$ 6,489	$ 7,500
Buy USD, Sell Euro | Designated as Hedges | Cash Flow Hedging
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount of foreign currency derivatives	542	350
Fair value of foreign currency forward contracts	(24)	(2)
Foreign currency forward contracts | Cash Flow Hedging | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total net revenues	$ (3)	39	$ 7
Foreign currency forward contracts | Designated as Hedges | Cash Flow Hedging
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Maximum length of time over which our foreign currency forward contracts mature	11 months
Buy USD, Sell GBP | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount of foreign currency derivatives	$ 116	25
Fair value of foreign currency forward contracts	$ (2)	$ (2)

Deferred Revenues (Details)

Deferred Revenues (Details) - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Deferred revenues	$ 1.7	$ 1.4
Revenue recognized included in beginning deferred revenue	$ 1.3	$ 1.5	$ 1.7

Deferred Revenues - Remaining P

Deferred Revenues - Remaining Performance Obligation (Details) $ in Billions	Dec. 31, 2020USD ($)
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Contracted not recognized revenue	$ 2.5
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2021-01-01
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Contracted not recognized revenue	$ 1.9
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Contracted not recognized revenue, period	1 year
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2022-01-01
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Contracted not recognized revenue	$ 0.4
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Contracted not recognized revenue, period	1 year

Leases - Narrative (Details)

Leases - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2020
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Rental expense	$ 75
Minimum
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Remaining lease term		1 year
Renewal term		1 year
Maximum
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Remaining lease term		9 years
Renewal term		5 years

Leases - Schedule of Lease Expe

Leases - Schedule of Lease Expense and Other Details Related to Operating Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Operating leases
Operating lease costs	$ 75	$ 75
Variable lease costs	20	20
Supplemental Operating Cash Flows Information
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities	77	80
ROU assets obtained in exchange for new lease obligations	$ 80	$ 65
Weighted Average Lease terms and discount rates
Remaining lease term	4 years 5 months 23 days	5 years
Discount rate	3.40%	4.02%

Leases - Schedule of Future Lea

Leases - Schedule of Future Lease Payments Under Non-cancellable Operating Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]
2021	$ 75
2022	71
2023	64
2024	53
2025	33
Thereafter	18
Total future lease payments	314
Less imputed interest	(24)
Total lease liabilities	$ 290	$ 273

Leases - Schedule of Operating

Leases - Schedule of Operating ROU Assets and Lease Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Total lease liabilities	$ 290	$ 273
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Statement of Financial Position	us-gaap:OtherAssetsMember	us-gaap:OtherAssetsMember
Current lease liabilities, accrued expenses and other current liabilities	us-gaap:AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent	us-gaap:AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent
Non-current lease liabilities, other liabilities	us-gaap:OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent	us-gaap:OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent
Total lease liabilities	us-gaap:OperatingLeaseLiability	us-gaap:OperatingLeaseLiability
Other assets
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
ROU assets	$ 243	$ 232
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	66	63
Other liabilities
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Non-current lease liabilities	$ 224	$ 210

Debt - Credit Facilities (Detai

Debt - Credit Facilities (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Credit Agreement as Amended
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount of letters of credit that can be issued under the Revolver	$ 50,000,000
Line of Credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt covenant, consolidated total net debt ratio, maximum	375.00%
Debt instrument, covenant, consolidated total net debt ratio, qualifying acquisition	425.00%
Debt instrument, covenant, consolidated total assets ratio, maximum	7.50%
Revolver
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 1,500,000,000	$ 1,500,000,000
Revolver | Line of Credit | Credit Agreement as Amended
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount drawn on the revolver	$ 0
Revolver | Line of Credit | Credit Agreement as Amended | Federal Funds Rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base rate margin	0.50%
Revolver | Line of Credit | Credit Agreement as Amended | LIBOR
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Base rate margin	1.00%
Variable rate interest floor	0.00%
Revolver | Line of Credit | Credit Agreement as Amended | LIBOR | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable margin (as a percent)	0.875%
Revolver | Line of Credit | Credit Agreement as Amended | LIBOR | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable margin (as a percent)	1.375%
Revolver | Line of Credit | Credit Agreement as Amended | Base Rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Variable rate interest floor	1.00%
Revolver | Line of Credit | Credit Agreement as Amended | Base Rate | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable margin (as a percent)	0.00%
Revolver | Line of Credit | Credit Agreement as Amended | Base Rate | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable margin (as a percent)	0.375%

Debt - Summary of Debt (Details

Debt - Summary of Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal	$ 3,650	$ 2,700
Unamortized discount and deferred financing costs	(45)	(25)
Total net carrying amount	$ 3,605	$ 2,675
Unsecured Notes | 2021 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Rate		2.30%
Principal		$ 650
Unsecured Notes | 2021 Notes | Fair Value (Level 2)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fair value of notes		$ 653
Unsecured Notes | 2022 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Rate		2.60%
Principal		$ 400
Unsecured Notes | 2022 Notes | Fair Value (Level 2)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fair value of notes		$ 405
Unsecured Notes | 2026 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Rate	3.40%	3.40%
Principal	$ 850	$ 850
Unsecured Notes | 2026 Notes | Fair Value (Level 2)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fair value of notes	$ 970	$ 893
Unsecured Notes | 2027 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Rate	3.40%	3.40%
Principal	$ 400	$ 400
Unsecured Notes | 2027 Notes | Fair Value (Level 2)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fair value of notes	$ 454	$ 417
Unsecured Notes | 2030 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Rate	1.35%
Principal	$ 500
Unsecured Notes | 2030 Notes | Fair Value (Level 2)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fair value of notes	$ 490
Unsecured Notes | 2047 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Rate	4.50%	4.50%
Principal	$ 400	$ 400
Unsecured Notes | 2047 Notes | Fair Value (Level 2)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fair value of notes	$ 525	$ 456
Unsecured Notes | 2050 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Rate	2.50%
Principal	$ 1,500
Unsecured Notes | 2050 Notes | Fair Value (Level 2)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fair value of notes	$ 1,462

Debt - Unsecured Senior Notes a

Debt - Unsecured Senior Notes and Interest Expense and Financing Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 04, 2020	Aug. 05, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount outstanding			$ 3,650	$ 2,700
Proceeds from debt issuances, net of discounts			1,994	0	$ 0
Debt discount and financing costs			45	25
Loss on extinguishment of debt			$ 31	$ 0	$ 40
Unsecured Notes | Unsecured 2030 and 2050 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Proceeds from debt issuances, net of discounts		$ 2,000
Debt discount and financing costs		$ 26
Unsecured Notes | Unsecured 2021 and 2022 Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption price percentage	100.00%
Make-whole premium	$ 28
Loss on extinguishment of debt	$ 31
Unsecured Notes | The Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption price percentage			101.00%
Unsecured Notes | The Notes | Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption price percentage			100.00%

Accumulated Other Comprehensi_3

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 12,805	$ 11,392
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(8)	29
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings	5	(47)
Ending balance	15,037	12,805
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(619)	(601)
Ending balance	(622)	(619)
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(624)	(629)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	37	5
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings	(2)	0
Ending balance	(589)	(624)
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for- sale securities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(3)	5
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(6)	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings	4	(8)
Ending balance	(5)	(3)
Unrealized gain (loss) on forward contracts
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	8	23
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(39)	24
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings	3	(39)
Ending balance	$ (28)	$ 8

Operating Segments and Geogra_3

Operating Segments and Geographic Regions (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020USD ($)segment	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments | segment	3
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	$ 8,419	$ 6,388	$ 7,262
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	333	(101)	(238)
Total net revenues	8,086	6,489	7,500
Operating income	2,734	1,607	1,988
Share-based compensation expense	(218)	(166)	(209)
Amortization of intangible assets	(80)	(204)	(371)
Restructuring costs	(94)	(132)	(10)
Interest and other expense (income), net	87	(26)	71
Loss on extinguishment of debt	31	0	40
Income before income tax expense	2,616	1,633	1,877
Long-lived assets	453	485	282
Americas
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	4,719	3,297	3,729
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	285	(44)	(151)
Total net revenues	4,434	3,341	3,880
Long-lived assets	270	322	203
EMEA
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	2,739	2,192	2,527
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	59	(47)	(91)
Total net revenues	2,680	2,239	2,618
Long-lived assets	166	142	62
Asia Pacific
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	961	899	1,006
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(11)	(10)	4
Total net revenues	972	909	1,002
Long-lived assets	$ 17	$ 21	$ 17
US | Geographic Concentration Risk | Revenues
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of concentration risk	48.00%	46.00%	46.00%
UK | Geographic Concentration Risk | Revenues
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of concentration risk	12.00%	12.00%	12.00%
Digital online channels
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	$ 7,122	$ 4,928	$ 5,718
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	464	(4)	(68)
Total net revenues	6,658	4,932	5,786
Retail channels
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	629	814	916
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(112)	(95)	(191)
Total net revenues	741	909	1,107
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	668	646	628
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(19)	(2)	21
Total net revenues	687	648	607
Console
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	2,916	1,866	2,273
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	132	(54)	(265)
Total net revenues	2,784	1,920	2,538
PC
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	2,235	1,665	2,189
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	179	(53)	9
Total net revenues	2,056	1,718	2,180
Mobile and ancillary
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	2,600	2,211	2,172
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	41	8	(3)
Total net revenues	2,559	2,203	2,175
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	668	646	628
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(19)	(2)	21
Total net revenues	687	648	607
Reportable segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	8,011	5,969	6,835
Operating income	3,418	2,054	2,446
Reportable segments | Intersegment net revenues
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	111	43	53
Reportable segments | Net revenues from external customers
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	7,900	5,926	6,782
Reportable segments | Activision
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	3,942	2,219	2,458
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	253	32	(280)
Total net revenues	3,689	2,187	2,738
Operating income	1,868	850	1,011
Reportable segments | Activision | Americas
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	2,544	1,302	1,459
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	228	16	(163)
Total net revenues	2,316	1,286	1,622
Reportable segments | Activision | EMEA
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	1,097	703	770
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	36	12	(127)
Total net revenues	1,061	691	897
Reportable segments | Activision | Asia Pacific
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	301	214	229
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(11)	4	10
Total net revenues	312	210	219
Reportable segments | Activision | Intersegment net revenues
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Reportable segments | Activision | Net revenues from external customers
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	3,942	2,219	2,458
Reportable segments | Activision | Digital online channels
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	3,295	1,488	1,644
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	365	122	(96)
Total net revenues	2,930	1,366	1,740
Reportable segments | Activision | Retail channels
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	590	728	814
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(112)	(90)	(184)
Total net revenues	702	818	998
Reportable segments | Activision | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	57	3	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	57	3	0
Reportable segments | Activision | Console
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	2,808	1,747	2,094
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	140	(36)	(257)
Total net revenues	2,668	1,783	2,351
Reportable segments | Activision | PC
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	646	355	345
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	64	57	(23)
Total net revenues	582	298	368
Reportable segments | Activision | Mobile and ancillary
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	431	114	19
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	49	11	0
Total net revenues	382	103	19
Reportable segments | Activision | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	57	3	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	57	3	0
Reportable segments | Blizzard
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	1,905	1,719	2,291
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	102	(133)	25
Total net revenues	1,803	1,852	2,266
Operating income	693	464	685
Reportable segments | Blizzard | Americas
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	852	760	1,019
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	58	(62)	15
Total net revenues	794	822	1,004
Reportable segments | Blizzard | EMEA
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	593	486	708
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	43	(57)	16
Total net revenues	550	543	692
Reportable segments | Blizzard | Asia Pacific
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	460	473	564
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	1	(14)	(6)
Total net revenues	459	487	570
Reportable segments | Blizzard | Intersegment net revenues
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	111	43	53
Reportable segments | Blizzard | Net revenues from external customers
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	1,794	1,676	2,238
Reportable segments | Blizzard | Digital online channels
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	1,774	1,452	2,041
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	102	(128)	32
Total net revenues	1,672	1,580	2,009
Reportable segments | Blizzard | Retail channels
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	39	86	102
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	(5)	(7)
Total net revenues	39	91	109
Reportable segments | Blizzard | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	92	181	148
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	92	181	148
Reportable segments | Blizzard | Console
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	108	119	179
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(8)	(18)	(8)
Total net revenues	116	137	187
Reportable segments | Blizzard | PC
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	1,604	1,236	1,744
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	115	(110)	33
Total net revenues	1,489	1,346	1,711
Reportable segments | Blizzard | Mobile and ancillary
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	101	183	220
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(5)	(5)	0
Total net revenues	106	188	220
Reportable segments | Blizzard | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	92	181	148
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	92	181	148
Reportable segments | King
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	2,164	2,031	2,086
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(3)	2	(4)
Total net revenues	2,167	2,029	2,090
Operating income	857	740	750
Reportable segments | King | Americas
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	1,383	1,256	1,266
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(1)	2	(3)
Total net revenues	1,384	1,254	1,269
Reportable segments | King | EMEA
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	567	557	598
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(1)	0	(1)
Total net revenues	568	557	599
Reportable segments | King | Asia Pacific
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	214	218	222
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(1)	0	0
Total net revenues	215	218	222
Reportable segments | King | Intersegment net revenues
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Reportable segments | King | Net revenues from external customers
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	2,164	2,031	2,086
Reportable segments | King | Digital online channels
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	2,164	2,031	2,086
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(3)	2	(4)
Total net revenues	2,167	2,029	2,090
Reportable segments | King | Retail channels
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Reportable segments | King | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Reportable segments | King | Console
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Reportable segments | King | PC
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	96	117	153
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	(1)
Total net revenues	96	117	154
Reportable segments | King | Mobile and ancillary
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	2,068	1,914	1,933
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(3)	2	(3)
Total net revenues	2,071	1,912	1,936
Reportable segments | King | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Non-reportable segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	519	462	480
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(19)	(2)	21
Total net revenues	538	464	459
Non-reportable segments | Americas
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	13
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	13
Non-reportable segments | EMEA
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	519	462	467
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(19)	(2)	21
Total net revenues	538	464	446
Non-reportable segments | Asia Pacific
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Non-reportable segments | Digital online channels
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Non-reportable segments | Retail channels
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Non-reportable segments | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	519	462	480
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(19)	(2)	21
Total net revenues	538	464	459
Non-reportable segments | Console
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Non-reportable segments | PC
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Non-reportable segments | Mobile and ancillary
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Non-reportable segments | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	519	462	480
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(19)	(2)	21
Total net revenues	538	464	459
Reconciliation items
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	(333)	101	238
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues and related cost of revenues	(238)	52	100
Share-based compensation expense	(218)	(166)	(209)
Amortization of intangible assets	(79)	(203)	(370)
Restructuring costs	(94)	(137)	(10)
Discrete tax-related items	0	(17)	0
Reconciliation items | Other segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating income	(55)	24	31
Elimination of intersegment revenues
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	(111)	(43)	(53)
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	(111)	(43)	(53)
Elimination of intersegment revenues | Americas
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	(60)	(21)	(28)
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	(60)	(21)	(28)
Elimination of intersegment revenues | EMEA
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	(37)	(16)	(16)
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	(37)	(16)	(16)
Elimination of intersegment revenues | Asia Pacific
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	(14)	(6)	(9)
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	(14)	(6)	(9)
Elimination of intersegment revenues | Digital online channels
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	(111)	(43)	(53)
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	(111)	(43)	(53)
Elimination of intersegment revenues | Retail channels
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Elimination of intersegment revenues | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Elimination of intersegment revenues | Console
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Elimination of intersegment revenues | PC
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	(111)	(43)	(53)
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	(111)	(43)	(53)
Elimination of intersegment revenues | Mobile and ancillary
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	0	0	0
Elimination of intersegment revenues | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment net revenues	0	0	0
Net effect from recognition (deferral) of deferred net revenues	0	0	0
Total net revenues	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Share-Based Payments - Equity I

Share-Based Payments - Equity Incentive Plans (Details) - shares shares in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Jun. 05, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common stock available for grant under share-based awards (in shares)		46
Aggregate common stock reserved for issuance under share-based awards (in shares)	20
Stock Option Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expiration period of options	10 years
Stock Option Plan | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period of award	3 years
Stock Option Plan | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period of award	5 years
Restricted Stock | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period of award	3 years
Restricted Stock | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period of award	5 years
Performance shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percent	125.00%
Performance shares | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percent	500.00%

Share-Based Payments - Method a

Share-Based Payments - Method and Assumptions on Valuation of Stock Options and Awards (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Stock Option Plan
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Assumptions [Line Items]
Expected life (in years)	7 years 8 months 12 days	7 years 10 months 6 days	7 years 7 months 20 days
Volatility	30.89%	30.00%	32.37%
Risk free interest rate	0.70%	1.90%	3.10%
Dividend yield	0.53%	0.76%	0.61%
Weighted-average fair value at the grant date (in dollars per share)	$ 25.93	$ 17.12	$ 21.03
Expected stock volatility rate, low end of range	30.00%	30.00%	31.72%
Expected stock volatility rate, high end of range	39.00%	38.17%	36.73%
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Assumptions [Line Items]
Volatility	37.39%
Risk free interest rate	0.11%
Dividend yield	0.47%

Share-Based Payments - Stock Op

Share-Based Payments - Stock Option Activities (Details) - Stock Option Plan - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Stock option activity, shares
Stock options at the beginning of the period (in shares)	14,029
Stock options, granted (in shares)	2,419
Stock options, exercised (in shares)	(4,543)
Stock options, forfeited (in shares)	(573)
Stock options, expired (in shares)	(35)
Stock options at the ending of the period (in shares)	11,297	14,029
Stock options, vested and expected to vest (in shares)	10,669
Stock options, exercisable (in shares)	3,710
Weighted-average exercise price per stock option
Stock options, weighted-average strike price at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 44.31
Stock options, weighted-average exercise price, granted (in dollars per share)	78.19
Stock options, weighted-average exercise price, exercised (in dollars per share)	37.49
Stock options, weighted-average exercise price, forfeited (in dollars per share)	52.98
Stock options, weighted-average exercise price, expired (in dollars per share)	52.68
Stock options, weighted-average strike price at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	53.84	$ 44.31
Stock options, weighted-average exercise price, vested and expected to vest (in dollars per share)	53.05
Stock options, weighted-average exercise price, exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 41.56
Stock options, weighted-average remaining contractual term	7 years 8 months 4 days
Stock options, weighted-average remaining contractual term, vested and expected to vest	7 years 7 months 6 days
Stock options, weighted-average remaining contractual term, exercisable	5 years 9 months
Stock options, aggregate intrinsic value	$ 441
Stock options, aggregate intrinsic value, vested and expected to vest	425
Stock options, aggregate intrinsic value, exercisable	190
Stock options, intrinsic value of options exercised	174	$ 80	$ 196
Total grant date fair value of options vested	62	$ 94	$ 45
Share-based compensation, unrecognized compensation	$ 66
Share-based compensation, unrecognized compensation weighted-average period of recognition	1 year 3 months

Share-Based Payments - Restrict

Share-Based Payments - Restricted Stock Units and Restricted Stock Awards Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk free interest rate	0.11%
Volatility	37.39%
Dividend yield	0.47%
Restricted Stock
Restricted stock rights activity
Restricted stock rights at the beginning of the period (in shares)	7,181
Restricted stock rights, granted (in shares)	2,254
Restricted stock rights, vested (in shares)	(1,513)
Restricted stock rights, forfeited (in shares)	(820)
Restricted stock rights at the ending of the period (in shares)	7,102	7,181
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value information
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 54.23
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value, granted (in dollars per share)	201.25
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value, vested (in dollars per share)	49.76
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value, forfeited (in dollars per share)	55.39
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) ending balance	$ 82.50	$ 54.23
Share-based compensation, unrecognized compensation	$ 170
Share-based compensation, unrecognized compensation weighted-average period of recognition	9 months
Total fair value of shares vested	$ 82	$ 147	$ 120
Performance shares
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value information
Performance-vesting restricted stock rights for which the accounting grant date has not been set (shares)	2,400
Performance-vesting restricted stock rights granted without an accounting grant date (shares)	1,400
Share-based compensation, unrecognized compensation	$ 154
Share-based compensation, unrecognized compensation weighted-average period of recognition	9 months
Employee Stock Option And Restricted Stock
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value information
Income tax benefit from stock option exercises and restricted stock rights	$ 61	$ 47	$ 94

Share-Based Payments - Stock-Ba

Share-Based Payments - Stock-Based Compensation Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense before income taxes	$ 218	$ 166	$ 209
Income tax benefit	(28)	(29)	(46)
Total share-based compensation expense, net of income tax benefit	190	137	163
Cost of revenues—product sales: Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense before income taxes	14	19	13
Cost of revenues—in-game, subscription, and other: Game Operations and Distribution Costs
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense before income taxes	1	1	2
Cost of revenues—in-game, subscription, and other: Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense before income taxes	0	1	3
Product development
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense before income taxes	42	53	61
Sales and marketing
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense before income taxes	21	10	15
General and administrative
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense before income taxes	$ 140	$ 82	$ 115

Restructuring - Schedule of Acc

Restructuring - Schedule of Accrued Restructuring Included in Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities by Cost Type (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Costs charged to expense	$ 94	$ 132	$ 10
Cumulative charges incurred to date	224
2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning	35	0
Costs charged to expense	87	132
Cash payments	(25)	(56)
Non-cash charge adjustment	(6)	(41)
Balance, ending	91	35	0
Cumulative charges incurred to date	219
Severance and employee related costs | 2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning	32	0
Costs charged to expense	76	76
Cash payments	(20)	(44)
Non-cash charge adjustment	0	0
Balance, ending	88	32	0
Cumulative charges incurred to date	152
Facilities and related costs | 2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning	0	0
Costs charged to expense	6	29
Cash payments	0	0
Non-cash charge adjustment	(6)	(29)
Balance, ending	0	0	0
Cumulative charges incurred to date	35
Other costs | 2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning	3	0
Costs charged to expense	5	27
Cash payments	(5)	(12)
Non-cash charge adjustment	0	(12)
Balance, ending	3	$ 3	$ 0
Cumulative charges incurred to date	$ 32

Restructuring - Total Restructu

Restructuring - Total Restructuring and Related Costs by Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and related costs	$ 94	$ 132	$ 10
2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and related costs	87	132
Activision | 2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and related costs	13	19
Blizzard | 2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and related costs	71	68
King | 2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and related costs	(1)	20
Other segments | 2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and related costs	$ 4	$ 25

Restructuring - Narrative (Deta

Restructuring - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Total expected pre-tax restructuring charges	$ 310
2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Total expected pre-tax restructuring charges	$ 310
Pre-tax charge expected to be paid in cash	70.00%
Severance and employee related costs | 2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Percentage of aggregate restructuring charge	60.00%
Facilities and related costs | 2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Percentage of aggregate restructuring charge	20.00%
Other costs | 2019 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Percentage of aggregate restructuring charge	20.00%
Cost of Sales
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Provision for inventories		$ 5

Restructuring - Schedule of Tot

Restructuring - Schedule of Total Expected Pre-tax Restructuring Charges (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020USD ($)
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative charges incurred to date	$ 224
Total expected pre-tax restructuring charges	310
Activision
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative charges incurred to date	32
Total expected pre-tax restructuring charges	42
Blizzard
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative charges incurred to date	144
Total expected pre-tax restructuring charges	200
King
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative charges incurred to date	19
Total expected pre-tax restructuring charges	25
Other segments
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative charges incurred to date	29
Total expected pre-tax restructuring charges	$ 43

Interest and Other Expense (I_3

Interest and Other Expense (Income), Net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Interest income	$ (21)	$ (79)	$ (65)
Interest expense from debt and amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs	99	90	140
Unrealized gain on equity investment	(3)	(38)	0
Other expense (income), net	12	1	(4)
Interest and other expense (income), net	$ 87	$ (26)	$ 71

Income Taxes - Income (Loss) Be

Income Taxes - Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes and Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Income before income tax expense:
Domestic	$ 1,160	$ 328	$ 432
Foreign	1,456	1,305	1,445
Income before income tax expense	2,616	1,633	1,877
Current:
Federal	206	136	(208)
State	92	24	(15)
Foreign	218	323	280
Total current	516	483	57
Deferred:
Federal	(84)	781	(153)
State	(10)	(16)	106
Foreign	(3)	(1,118)	19
Total deferred	(97)	(353)	(28)
Income tax expense	$ 419	$ 130	$ 29

Income Taxes - Effective Tax Ra

Income Taxes - Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Amount [Abstract]
Federal income tax provision at statutory rate	$ 549	$ 343	$ 394
State taxes, net of federal benefit	49	20	36
Research and development credits	(70)	(38)	(46)
Foreign rate differential	(103)	(104)	(198)
Foreign-derived intangible income	(40)	(1)	0
Change in tax reserves	60	96	285
Audit settlements	0	54	(115)
Excess tax benefits related to share-based payments	(30)	(2)	(58)
U.S. Tax Reform Act	0	0	(340)
Change in valuation allowance	35	11	61
Intra-entity IP Transfer	(31)	(230)	0
Other	0	(19)	10
Income tax expense	$ 419	$ 130	$ 29
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Federal income tax provision at statutory rate	21.00%	21.00%	21.00%
State taxes, net of federal benefit	2.00%	1.00%	2.00%
Research and development credits	(3.00%)	(2.00%)	(2.00%)
Foreign rate differential	(4.00%)	(7.00%)	(11.00%)
Foreign-derived intangible income	(2.00%)	0.00%	0.00%
Change in tax reserves	2.00%	6.00%	15.00%
Audit settlements	0.00%	3.00%	(6.00%)
Excess tax benefits related to share-based payments	(1.00%)	0.00%	(3.00%)
U.S. Tax Reform Act	0	0	(0.18)
Change in valuation allowance	2.00%	1.00%	3.00%
Intra-entity IP Transfer	(1.00%)	(14.00%)	0.00%
Other	0.00%	(1.00%)	1.00%
Income tax expense	16.00%	8.00%	2.00%

Income Taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) € in Millions, $ in Millions	1 Months Ended			3 Months Ended			6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2020USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2020EUR (€)	Oct. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2020USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017EUR (€)
Income Tax [Line Items]
Federal income tax provision at statutory rate								21.00%	21.00%	21.00%
Tax benefit								$ (419)	$ (130)	$ (29)
Valuation allowance				$ 181				228	181
Reduction in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from Closing Agreement								3	163	312
Additional federal and state cash payments related to Closing Agreement							$ 345
Additional tax expense (benefit) for effects of U.S. Tax Reform Act					$ (340)
NOL carryforwards, foreign								46
Deferred tax assets, intangible assets				1,289				1,287	1,289
Deferred tax liabilities, intangible assets				142				147	142
Unrecognized tax benefits				1,037	926		926	1,166	1,037	926	$ 1,138
Unrecognized tax benefits that would affect effective tax rate								706
Accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions				72	$ 87		$ 87	93	72	87
Interest expense related to uncertain tax positions								19	14	$ 11
State
Income Tax [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforward								227
R&D Credit
Income Tax [Line Items]
Valuation allowance				71				107	71
US IP Onshoring
Income Tax [Line Items]
Additional federal and state cash payments related to Closing Agreement			$ 334
French Tax Authority
Income Tax [Line Items]
Tax expense (benefit) related to tax settlement									54
Total assessment, including penalties and interest, not recorded											$ 638	€ 571
Tax payments, including interest and penalties	$ 179	€ 161
Settlement From Closing Agreement
Income Tax [Line Items]
Tax expense (benefit) related to tax settlement						$ 70
Reduction in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from Closing Agreement						437
Indirect Tax Benefits Due to Closing Agreement
Income Tax [Line Items]
Tax expense (benefit) related to tax settlement						$ (185)
UK IP Onshoring
Income Tax [Line Items]
Tax benefit				230
Net Deferred tax asset related to the amortizable tax basis in transferred intellectual property				1,100					1,100
Deferred tax liabilities, domestic tax on foreign earnings				920					920
Valuation allowance				$ 110					$ 110
Deferred tax assets, intangible assets								1,100
UK IP Onshoring | Minimum
Income Tax [Line Items]
Amortizable tax basis, recovery period									3 years
UK IP Onshoring | Maximum
Income Tax [Line Items]
Amortizable tax basis, recovery period									25 years
U.S.
Income Tax [Line Items]
Deferred tax liabilities, intangible assets								881
US IP Onshoring
Income Tax [Line Items]
Tax benefit								$ 31

Income Taxes - Components of Ne

Income Taxes - Components of Net Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Deferred tax assets:
Deferred revenue	$ 274	$ 119
Tax attributes carryforwards	123	93
Share-based compensation	51	54
Deferred tax assets, intangible assets	1,287	1,289
Capitalized software development expenses	21	67
Other	160	156
Deferred tax assets	1,916	1,778
Valuation allowance	(228)	(181)
Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance	1,688	1,597
Deferred tax liabilities:
Intangibles	(147)	(142)
U.S. deferred taxes on foreign earnings	(577)	(594)
Other	(63)	(73)
Deferred tax liabilities	(787)	(809)
Net deferred tax assets	$ 901	$ 788

Income Taxes - Reconciliation o

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Total Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits
Unrecognized tax benefits balance at January 1	$ 1,037	$ 926	$ 1,138
Gross increase for tax positions taken during a prior year	97	151	103
Gross decrease for tax positions taken during a prior year	(1)	(168)	(123)
Gross increase for tax positions taken during the current year	38	291	132
Settlement with taxing authorities	(3)	(163)	(312)
Lapse of statute of limitations	(2)	0	(12)
Unrecognized tax benefits balance at December 31	$ 1,166	$ 1,037	$ 926

Computation of Basic_Diluted _3

Computation of Basic/Diluted Earnings Per Common Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Numerator:
Consolidated net income	$ 2,197	$ 1,503	$ 1,848
Denominator:
Denominator for basic earnings per common share - weighted-average common shares outstanding (in shares)	771	767	762
Effect of dilutive stock options and awards under the treasury stock method (in shares)	7	4	9
Denominator for diluted earnings per common share—weighted-average common shares outstanding plus dilutive common shares under the treasury stock method (in shares)	778	771	771
Basic earnings per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 2.85	$ 1.96	$ 2.43
Diluted earnings per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 2.82	$ 1.95	$ 2.40

Computation of Basic_Diluted _4

Computation of Basic/Diluted Earnings Per Common Share - Weighted-Average Shares Excluded from the Computation of Diluted Earnings Per Share (Details) - shares shares in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Shares not included in computation of diluted EPS due to unmet performance measures (in shares)	2	2	4
Options
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)	1	6	3

Capital Transactions - Repurcha

Capital Transactions - Repurchase Programs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Billions	Jan. 27, 2021	Jan. 31, 2019
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Stock repurchase program, dollar amount authorized		$ 1.5
Subsequent Events
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Stock repurchase program, dollar amount authorized	$ 4

Capital Transactions - Dividend

Capital Transactions - Dividends (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Feb. 04, 2021	May 06, 2020	Feb. 06, 2020	May 09, 2019	Feb. 12, 2019	May 09, 2018	Feb. 08, 2018	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Dividends per common share (in dollars per share)			$ 0.41		$ 0.37		$ 0.34	$ 0.41	$ 0.37	$ 0.34
Cash dividend payment		$ 316		$ 283		$ 259		$ 316	$ 283	$ 259
Subsequent Events
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Dividends per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.47

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Future Minimum Commitments (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020USD ($)
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Unrecognized tax benefits, net of tax credits, noncurrent	$ 466
Transition tax liability	153
Total Contractual Obligations
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
2021	439
2022	427
2023	321
2024	162
2025	138
Thereafter	5,076
Total	6,563
Facility and Equipment Leases
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
2021	77
2022	72
2023	65
2024	54
2025	33
Thereafter	19
Total	320
Developer and Hosting
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
2021	95
2022	84
2023	85
2024	3
2025	0
Thereafter	0
Total	267
Marketing
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
2021	158
2022	166
2023	66
2024	0
2025	0
Thereafter	0
Total	390
Long-term debt obligations
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
2021	109
2022	105
2023	105
2024	105
2025	105
Thereafter	5,057
Total	$ 5,586

Commitments and Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2020USD ($)
Credit Agreement as Amended
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Amount of letters of credit that can be issued under the Revolver	$ 50

SCHEDULE II VALUATION AND QUA_2

SCHEDULE II VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Allowances for sales returns and price protection and other allowances
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation and qualifying accounts, balance at the beginning of period	$ 118	$ 186	$ 274
Valuation and qualifying accounts, additions	(29)	11	24
Valuation and qualifying accounts, deductions	(26)	(79)	(112)
Valuation and qualifying accounts, balance at the end of period	63	118	186
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation and qualifying accounts, balance at the beginning of period	181	61	0
Valuation and qualifying accounts, additions	49	127	61
Valuation and qualifying accounts, deductions	(2)	(7)	0
Valuation and qualifying accounts, balance at the end of period	$ 228	$ 181	$ 61