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Online casinos and mobile devices go hand-in-hand…literally. It’s estimated that 80% of online casino patrons use mobile devices to play.
Advancements in mobile technology have helped aid not only general device use, but have also given users of online casinos and social casinos distinct advantages specific to the gambler’s experience.
5G introduced faster bonus deposits, buffer-free gameplay
At the time that 5G launched in the US in 2019, only three states offered online casinos: Delaware, Nevada, and New Jersey. Since then, four additional states have launched online casinos: Connecticut, Michigan, Rhode Island, and West Virginia.
5G’s speed and low latency were the perfect match for the expansion of online casinos. Performance metrics across the board improved for online casinos. For example, bonus activations could take up to 30 seconds on a 4G network, but they’re almost instantaneous on a 5G network.
Also, 4G provided HD resolution but, at times, could cause buffering on mobile devices. 5G solved many of those issues, providing true HD and 4K resolution with few, if any, buffering issues. A clear, reliable gaming stream is especially important for states like New Jersey that offer live-dealer online casino games.
Finally, 5G’s download speeds are considerably higher than 4G speeds — at least 5 times as fast, in some cases.
5G mobile connections can pave the way for iGaming VR
The rise of virtual reality (VR) headsets has presented online casino operators with a new avenue for user interaction. Rather than “entering” an online casino through a mobile app interface, VR igaming lets players get a virtual in-casino experience.
Players can walk around a casino as they would in real life, stopping at tables to watch games or participate in them.
“This improvement augments user experience by simulating real-world casinos, wide-ranging with slot machines, card desks, live dealers, and social interfaces,” Business Research Insights (BRI) noted in a recent review of the market.
The augmented implementation of online gaming platforms has enhanced the VR gambling market. The online gambling sector has experienced certain improvements in the last decade, comprising 3D graphics, live supplier casinos, and mobile gaming. VR is the next milestone in the development of internet gambling.”
Here’s a snapshot of the current VR gambling market, according to iGaming solutions firm Casino Market:
- 170 active users around the world
- Average session duration of 32 to 47 minutes
- $35 to $45 of revenue per customer, per month (on average)
- 30% to 35% retention rates over 30 days
Online casino operators that can leverage VR now may be able to lead the way in VR online gaming’s growth from an estimated $0.9 billion in 2024 to $2.5 billion in 2033, BRI noted.
