The emergence of technology has made life easier in different ways. Today you can shop, communicate and work from anywhere. The rise of technology has also played a considerable role in the gambling/betting industry. Over the years, various advancements have been made that have helped the gambling/betting industry to survive while also helping it to grow.
Gone are the days when players had to visit land-based casinos and betting shops physically. Today anyone who wishes to place bets and gamble can do so from the comfort of their home. The rise of the gambling industry was significantly witnessed during the pandemic. As many sectors struggled to remain afloat, the gambling industry gained profits and new customers. Today even with things returning to normal, many players still prefer technological forms of gambling/betting.
Here are some advancements technology has made in the gambling/betting industry.
Online Casinos and Betting Sites
In the past, people who wished to indulge in gambling/betting activities had to visit physical shops and land-based casinos. The emergence of technology changed this by enabling operators to develop online casinos and betting sites. These platforms have made lives easier for punters by allowing them to enjoy various games and place bets from anywhere. Over the years, these online platforms have also encouraged new players to join the gambling/betting world, thus increasing revenue for the industry and the operators.
Mobile Applications
After developing online websites, most gambling/betting operators decided to make a mobile-friendly version of the sites. These mobile apps ensured that even if one did not have a PC, they could easily access their favourite casinos and betting platforms. Today there are a variety of apps that are Android and iOS friendly. The best part about these apps is that some offer bonuses and promotions just for downloading the app.
Better Graphics
Gone are the days whereby games could only be accessed in 1D or 2D quality. Today a majority of games are available in 3D. This advancement mainly impacted slot machine games which have become the most popular in the gambling world. Punters can now enjoy games that are more realistic and exciting.
M-PESA
In recent years, gambling/betting has become popular in many African countries, including Kenya. The rise in technology made it easier for people to access internet services and brought about M-PESA, which was a step up from using cash. The introduction of M-PESA made it easier for people to top up their accounts, place bets and withdraw winnings faster and in real time.
Although most gambling sites still use credit/debit cards and online payment services. Some online payment services like PayPal have also adopted the use of M-PESA. Today you can be able to withdraw your winnings to your PayPal account and transfer the money directly to your M-PESA.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence has played a massive role in the gambling industry. The introduction of AI has helped operators to access players’ gaming information which has guided game developers on which services to introduce and improve. Artificial Intelligence also comes in handy when punters wish to play against machines to test their skills instead of playing with other players.
Customer Service
A few years ago, the only form available was email and sending via postal mail when one wished to make a complaint or request. The downside was having to wait for the response of the customer care team, which would take days. Thanks to technology, gambling/betting sites and apps have real-time support systems. This has made it easier for customer care teams to prioritize and promptly respond to customers’ queries and questions.
Live Streaming
Live streaming has allowed players to participate in gambling activities in land-based casinos from the comfort of their homes through high-end equipment and software. Over the years, this experience has improved thanks to the advancement of networks from 2G/3G to today’s 4G and 5G. Players can enjoy games without having to worry about buffering. This technological advancement has also enabled operators to increase their revenue and also discovery of new markets that punters enjoy from the comfort of their homes and will not have to travel to foreign countries to participate in tournaments
Cloud Gaming
One of the significant advancements brought about by technology is cloud gaming which allows players to enjoy their favourite games without worrying about downloading them. Cloud gaming ensures that you never have to worry about storage space. Additionally, punters can participate in gambling activities across different devices since the games are hosted in the cloud and compatible with various devices.
Blockchain Technology
The advancement of technology has enabled blockchain technology to thrive in the gambling industry. Various cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are now being used as a mode of payment on websites and applications.
The use of cryptocurrencies has ensured that there is a high level of cyber security since crypto wallets are hard to hack because of two-factor authentication. Furthermore, players do not have to worry about their private information being accessed since crypto wallets do not collect personal data.
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality has become the joy of gaming, especially in the gambling world. VR has made it easier for gambling operators to attract more people to their sites and applications. Virtual reality has made live casino games more exciting. From the comfort of their homes, players can interact with other real-life players in real-time, just like in traditional land-based casinos.
Security
A few years back, many people avoided online gambling/betting sites because they feared their data could end up being accessed by the wrong people. However, this is no longer an issue with the rise in technology. Gambling operators have adopted the use of high-end security features on their sites and applications. Today, you can participate in your favourite gambling activities without worrying because these platforms are equipped with encryption and SSL (Secure Sockets Layer). These features ensure that players’ information is always kept safe.
Additionally, players can be assured that casino games and betting sites operate fairly, thanks to technology. Many well-known sites are regulated by popular gaming agencies that ensure that all games are conducted fairly and are licensed.
Conclusion
Technology has created a sense of convenience for a vast population of people. With technology constantly changing, the gambling/betting industry will also likely change this will give rise to different player engagement opportunities that will give the punter more variety, better engagement and unique user experiences tailored to meet individual tastes. More people will be encouraged to join the gambling world, and operators will be able to gain more revenue.
Check out this other article – The Betting (Or Gambling) Industry Is Growing In Kenya. Here Are Some Of The Opportunities And Challenges
Nate Kariuki offers consultancy services for businesses looking to set up their sports betting, casinos, and lotteries in Kenya, both local and foreign. He also ensures that the business/company complies with the betting laws in Kenya. In addition, his services include license acquisition for new entrants, compliance with the regulator, advisory for the acquisition of sports betting companies, and liaising with the legislature and various parliamentary committees such as ICT and PAC. Nate has a good rapport with the regulator and key committees in the legislature. This ensures that as the operator, you will always be well informed on any new elements of operating in Kenya. He also provides sufficient industry knowledge on operating in Kenya, from the telcos to the common mwananchi, making it easier to do business. You can check out his website here.
