The iGaming industry is constantly evolving thanks to the willingness of industry leaders and operators to improve their services and make safer and more enjoyable websites. They do so by using the latest technological innovations.
Here is a
closer look at some of the main technologies used to shape the iGaming industry
and make online casinos better than ever, which fuels the growth of an already
multi-billion-dollar global digital entertainment industry.
How is technology helping to shape the iGaming industry and fuel significant revenue growth?
Let’s
start by explaining what the iGaming industry is. In short, any fully licensed
and regulated real money gambling websites such as online casinos, dedicated
poker sites, online sportsbooks, and bingo/lottery sites operate in the iGaming
industry.
The
industry reports significant growth each year and shows no signs of slowing
down.
More
people than ever play on legally permitted casino sites today because they are
more appealing and secure, and increased customer bases and retention help fuel
significant revenue growth.
The key
technologies that have helped shape the online casino sector are the following:
- Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and big data gathering/analysis
(and other AI-powered tools, such as generative AI)
- SSL (Secure Socket Layer) and TSL (Transport
Layer Security) measures/protocols
- Faster and more secure online payment
processing gateways
- Players today have far more advanced desktop
computers and mobile devices
- Web browsers are quicker, safer, and more
efficient
- Superfast internet/Wi-Fi speeds (such as 5G)
and HTML5 technology
- Cloud gaming/computing
- Advanced live streaming capabilities
- Better computer programming for game
development
- More intuitive websites that are easier to
navigate
- More reliable Random Number Generators (RNGS) offering higher return to player (RTP%) payout rates
How else has tech improved online casinos?
Things
like MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) and 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication),
fingerprint, voice, and facial login measures have enhanced security, and
128-bit or higher SSL encryption has made it almost impossible for hackers,
fraudsters, scammers, and cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access to players
accounts.
In other
words, there has never been a safer time than now to join a legally permitted
casino, provided it has overwhelmingly positive reviews by the experts, and
delivers excellent player feedback. Without safety, security, great games and
fast deposit and payout, players will leave and find an alternative.
Today’s
most trusted casinos that are fully licensed and regulated by one or more
reputable gaming commission/licensing authorities will also be controlled by
trustworthy and reliable operators with good standing and better
insight in the land-based or iGaming industry,
or both.
Let’s now
discuss some of the most important things everyone should consider before
randomly signing up to the first casino they come across. Carrying out a few
basic checks can avoid disappointment.
Is this the same tech used at land-basedcasinos?
Yes and no.
Technological
advancements have significantly shaped the iGaming industry, enhancing both
security and player experience. Innovations like AI, machine learning, and
enhanced encryption protocols are crucial for online casinos, providing safer
and more engaging environments for players. Interestingly, these technologies
are not confined to the digital realm. Many land-based casinos, including those
operated by Native American tribes, also adopt similar technologies.
For
instance, Native American casinos use advanced security measures and data
analytics to ensure fair play and protect their patrons, reflecting the broader
trend of technology-driven improvements in the gambling industry. These casinos
operate under a unique regulatory framework – one of the most important things any
first-time visitor to a Native American casino should realise – and
emphasise security on both sides of the coin. For instance, biometric scanning
is a technology that really enhances security for patrons and the house itself
at these locations, in much the same way that 2FA protects online
players.
Another
example: in the video slots section of land-based casinos, which typically
houses hundreds of slot machines that are connected to the internet, these
games also use frequently tested Random Number Generators (RNGs) to produce
fair and realistic outcomes with high or above-average RTP% payout rates.
Also, the
operators of these casino buildings accept a wide range of payment methods at
the cashier to cater to a broader customer base, allowing guests to securely
purchase chips and cash out their winnings with relative ease from any modern
Wi-Fi-connected smartphone or tablet device just as you would deposit and
withdraw at your favourite online casinos.
Land-based
casino owners also use many other cutting-edge technologies to ensure their
customers have the safest and most enjoyable experience when visiting these
venues to play their favourite games.
How is AI helping to shape online casinos?
Artificial
intelligence and the various AI-powered tools that online casino operators use
today are helping make these sites much safer and making the experience
personalized on an individual level.
For
example, thanks to AI systems, which monitor each player’s account in a
non-intrusive way, operators can suggest more relevant games based on someone’s
personal gaming history and preferences. The recommendations will be based on
which games they like playing the most.
Similarly,
based on how a player has interacted with the website and previous
bonuses/promotional offers, operators can offer more relevant promotional
offers and bonuses.
That’s not
all. AI is also helping to eliminate underage gambling and other fraudulent
activities, such as multiple accounts being opened by the same players who then
engage in bonus misuse.
AI-powered
tools can also monitor patterns in play and detect anomalies to prevent
gambling problems from ever occurring.
These
systems can raise alarms and even offer support and guidance about today’s most
trusted non-profit problem gambling organizations, such as BeGambleAware,
GamCare, Gamblers Anonymous, Gambling Therapy, and many other geo-target
organizations available in regions where those players live.
Final thoughts
There has
never been a safer time than now to be an online casino player. For example,
when playing on the highest-rated and most secure sites, players today also
tend to have access to a range of highly effective ‘safer gambling tools.’
This means
that when a player logs into their account today, they can set a range of
controls that will ensure they never exceed their budget. Some of the most
effective tools commonly found in this particular section of a casino are
session time reminders (e.g., get notified after every 15, 30, 45 or 60 minutes
of play) and win/loss limits.
Another
popular ‘safer gambling tool’ is the deposit limit, which can be customized to
suit your bankroll. For example, some players might like to set a daily $/€/£50
deposit limit, whereas others may feel more comfortable setting a $/€/£50.00
weekly or monthly limit.
Over the
coming years, we will likely see even more emerging technologies like VR, AR,
and MR (virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality), completely
revolutionizing how we interact with and experience casinos of the future. It’s
an exciting time for online casinos, and the future looks bright.
