INTRODUCTION
The term “online casino” refers to the area of the gaming market that operates online and gives customers access to traditional casino games. Slot machines, table games, and live dealer games are just a few of the games that are often available. These games are accessible to players via home computers as well as mobile gadgets like smartphones and tablets. Since more and more individuals turn to digital platforms for pleasure and entertainment, the online casino market is a sector that is expanding quickly.
With the development of online casinos, the gambling industry has reached a tipping point thanks to technology. One of the most profitable sectors in the digital world today is online gambling. As gamblers began playing online games from their homes and places of business in the 1990s, the entire gambling narrative underwent a major upheaval. Both the casinos and the customers’ lives were made simpler by the automated procedures. Also, it sped up the process of learning new games and helped new players get comfortable with casino games.
Technology is significantly influencing how consumers play casino games and what they may anticipate from their experience, from virtual reality to artificial intelligence and chatbots. After all, the iGaming sector is frequently among the first to utilize new technology to its advantage. In light of this, let’s examine how technology will affect/is affecting future/current developments in the online casino gambling industry.
ADVANCEMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY
Many technological developments in the online gambling sector have had a significant influence on how players access and engage with online casinos. These improvements include, among others:
Mobile Compatibility
Since the first smartphone became widely available 15 years ago, the number of mobile users has been steadily increasing. Nowadays, more than half of all web traffic comes from mobile devices. The desktop phase of the internet has largely been skipped by many developing nations, including India, in favor of the mobile phase.
People may now redefine what it means to gamble remotely thanks to smartphones. These days, everyone has access to online gambling sites at their fingertips. All they need is an Internet connection to start playing their favorite casino game. With the increase of mobile-first customers, mobile smart devices are perhaps the best thing that has happened to the gambling business historically up to this moment.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Virtual reality has aided online casinos in enhancing players’ enjoyment of their favorite games. It enables users to enter the online casino’s virtual realm and begin engaging with dealers and other players. With the appropriate tools, gamers may now enjoy gaming to a degree that is nearly identical to that of traditional casinos. Better audio quality, more realistic game design, and other benefits are all provided by virtual reality.
With the use of augmented reality (AR) technology, gamers may interact with virtual things in real-time, giving the impression that they are actually in a physical casino. The ability to roam about the game board and obtain a better perspective of the action is made possible, for instance, by certain casinos adopting AR to develop 3D versions of their games. Moreover, AR may be utilized to deliver improved graphics and audio effects that up the excitement factor of playing online games. Online casinos may use AR technology to provide interactive tutorials that make it simple and quick for new players to learn how to play various games.
Artificial Intelligence
The most potent technology that has been transforming the online gaming sector is artificial intelligence (AI) and its machine learning (ML) capabilities. AI may be used to make predictions that are more accurate, evaluate data more quickly, and offer better customer service.
AI-powered chatbots, for instance, can assist players in finding information fast, and complex algorithms can be used to identify trends in player behavior and offer suggestions for gameplay improvements. Online casinos will be able to provide a more individualized experience for their consumers by utilizing AI technology.
Live Dealer Games
Players may enjoy live dealer online casino games from the comfort of their homes, simulating the thrill and excitement of playing in a typical brick-and-mortar casino. These games are run in real-time by a live dealer, and players may communicate with them and other players via a live video broadcast.
Live dealer games give a more immersive and realistic experience than other online casino games, which is one of its key benefits. It seems more like a real casino when players can see and talk to the dealer and other players while they are playing.
IMPACT OF ADVANCEMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY
Players today have greater access to data and information than ever before because of the contemporary technology that drives casino games and platforms. This opens the door for creating strategies that are more successful. In addition, technology has made it possible for players to hone their abilities in virtually realistic situations which improve the player experience overall. Not to mention, the added layer of safety and security.
In other words, technology has made it feasible to start with the development and expansion of new gaming platforms that provide more immersive experiences than before. Players can connect with one another on these platforms in ways that redefine interactions, resulting in the creation of an entirely new experience and increased competition.
Improved player experience
Here are a few ways that technology has improved the player experience:
- Improved User Interfaces: Players can explore modern online casinos and discover the games they wish to play more easily thanks to their user-friendly interfaces. To enhance user convenience and effectiveness, they employ clear menus, search options, and filters.
- Faster Gameplay: To make sure that games are responsive and quick, online casinos utilize cutting-edge technology. As a result, gamers will experience smoother gaming with fewer pauses or interruptions.
- Enhanced Graphics and Sound: Online casinos employ excellent visuals and sound to create more immersive and engaging games. Players may enjoy a more engaging and realistic gaming experience as a result of this.
- Personalization: To tailor the gaming experience for each player, online casinos utilize data analytics and machine learning. Companies may give promotions catered to their interests, promote games that gamers are likely to love, and send them personalized suggestions and notifications using this technology.
- Accessibility: Online casinos are accessible around-the-clock, allowing customers to play their favorite games whenever they choose. For gamers who might not have the time or capacity to attend a physical casino, this convenience is a big benefit.
Increased safety and security
These are a few ways technology has improved online casinos’ safety and security:
- Encryption: Online casinos utilize encryption technology to safeguard sensitive data, including player histories, payment information, and personal information. Data is sent securely and cannot be intercepted or altered by unauthorized third parties thanks to encryption.
- Anti-fraud Measures: To stop fraudulent actions, online casinos employ anti-fraud methods including transaction monitoring, risk analysis, and identity verification. Customers who might not have the time or capacity to visit a physical casino may benefit from these safeguards by helping to detect and prevent illegal actions including money laundering, account hacking, and credit card fraud.
- Random Number Generators: Online casinos utilize random number generators (RNGs) to make sure that game results are fair and random. RNGs employ intricate algorithms to produce random results, making it hard to foresee or influence the game’s outcome.
- Audits: To make sure that online casinos are functioning honestly and openly, companies must regularly submit to audits by unaffiliated third parties. To make sure they adhere to industry standards, these audits assess the casino’s software, RNGs, and payout rates.
- Two-Factor Authentication: To increase security, online casinos may also implement two-factor authentication. In order to access their account, users must submit two kinds of identity, such as a password and a one-of-a-kind code texted to their mobile device.
Expansion of the market
These are some examples of how technology has fueled the expansion of the online gambling market:
- Online casinos are becoming more accessible as a result of technological advancements. Gamers may now use their computers, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices to visit online casinos. It is now simpler for consumers to bet online, no matter where they are.
- Technology has contributed to an improvement in the gaming experience at online casinos. With today’s improved visuals, audio, and animation, games are more immersive and interesting. Also, live dealer casino games offer a more authentic casino experience, which has assisted in drawing more players to online casinos.
- Online casinos now provide a variety of payment options, including credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies. This has made it simpler for customers to deposit and withdraw money from online casinos, which has contributed to the growth of such businesses.
- The use of technology has made it simpler for online casinos to promote their products to prospective customers. To reach a larger audience, online casinos have embraced social media, email marketing, and customized advertising.
- Thanks to technological advancements, online casinos may now function on a global basis. By welcoming players from all around the world, their income and worldwide reach have increased.
Increased competition
Here are some of the ways technology has contributed to the increased competition in the online gambling industry:
- Weaker Entry Barriers: The online casino sector now has fewer entrance barriers thanks to technology. Smaller businesses and even individuals may launch their own online casinos thanks to the availability of ready-made gaming systems. As a result, there are now more online casinos, which has increased competition in the market.
- Innovation: Thanks to technology, online casinos can now provide innovative games and features that set them apart from the competition. For instance, virtual reality or live dealer games offered by online casinos may provide gamers with a special gaming experience.
- User Experience: Technology has improved user experience for online casinos, which has become a crucial differentiator for businesses in the sector. Online casinos can provide more user-friendly, customizable user interfaces, quicker page loads, and more dependable games. These elements can aid online casinos in differentiating themselves from the competition and drawing in more customers.
- Marketing: Thanks to technology, online casinos can now reach more prospective customers. To reach players in various geographic locations or demographic groups, online casinos can employ targeted advertising, social media, and other online marketing methods. This has increased the struggle among online casinos to draw in new customers.
- Pricing: As a result of technology, the pricing war in the online casino sector has intensified. Players now have more alternatives thanks to the rise of online casinos, which may result in price wars amongst them as they fight for clients.
CASE STUDIES
Evolution Gaming’s Live Dealer Games
In 2006, Evolution Gaming made its debut as a supplier of live games alone. Since then, they have become widely recognized as the industry standard. With a redesign in October 2020, they stopped using the word “Gaming” and became just Evolution. When you examine the metrics guiding their business, you can see its remarkable scope.
There are now nine main studios, over 1000 live dealer tables (by the end of 2021), over 400 dedicated client tables, over 2,500 dealers, a wide variety of games, full mobile compatibility, significant language possibilities, and more (iOS and Android devices). Their streaming technology offers continuous, high-quality video that is tolerable for sub-optimal connection rates, and the product is presented via a quick loading and relatively easy play interface.
NetEnt’s Virtual Reality Slot Machines
By creating and releasing its first online casino game for the quickly rising Virtual Reality (VR) sector, NetEnt has continued to lead the digital casino industry tech revolution. Consumers are increasingly using virtual reality technology, and studies reveal that online gamers are beginning to explore more immersive gaming experiences.
Gonzo’s Quest now boasts an immersive experience thanks to VR technology from NetEnt, making it more enjoyable to play even if the gameplay hasn’t changed. A 360-degree perspective of the game’s jungle setting allows players to access menu elements that were previously only accessible by pressing buttons next to the reels. For instance, while players look at the reels, they may see the game rules, which include the meanings of each symbol and the pay lines. Conquistador Gonzo, who introduces the program, is totally interactive and jumps up and into the players’ faces to celebrate every victory while a second parrot mascot joins in as well.
Microgaming’s AI-powered Chatbot
An AI-powered chatbot has been developed by Microgaming, a top supplier of online casino software, to improve the user experience. The PlayItForward chatbot helps gamers in real-time by using machine learning and natural language processing (NLP) techniques. The PlayItForward chatbot can answer a variety of player questions, including those about accounts, game regulations, and promotions. It is also accessible round-the-clock.
The PlayItForward chatbot’s capacity to customize the player experience is another advantage. The chatbot may offer personalized suggestions and promotions by using user information, such as gaming interests and history. This may improve player retention and engagement.
CONCLUSION
When it comes to advancements in the online gambling business, technology has taught us that we can never predict what will come next. The potential of online casinos is limitless as long as the gaming industry puts these advancements into practice in a proper manner.
It’s no secret that cutting-edge technology is transforming the way whole sectors function. The future of casino gaming will continue to be paved by technology, which is also true for the iGaming sector.
