The iGaming industry is a world of constant change and the never-ending pursuit of the next big innovation. Adopting cutting-edge technology becomes increasingly important as players demand richer, more immersive gaming experiences. In this article, we’ll explore the latest tech trends poised to reshape the iGaming landscape in the years to come.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning
AI has advanced rapidly and seen widespread adoption in recent years – so much so that Collins Dictionary named “AI” its Word of the Year¹. AI and machine learning technology have developed a great deal, and we expect that they will help revolutionise the iGaming industry in the following ways:
Personalized player experiences: AI technology already has some clever features, such as a mobile phone notifying its user when a coffee shop nearby is running a promotion. With this kind of feature, AI algorithms can offer personalised recommendations, custom promotions and targeted incentives to mobile casino players². This tailored approach means that online operators can better satisfy their customers and build loyalty.
Using AI technology in iGaming platforms as a localisation tool will be a game changer. By powering these platforms with AI, the problem of content localisation in continents like Asia and Africa can be solved not just through language adaptation but also by tailoring the game offering itself to align with player demands³.
Intelligent game development: AI has proved its effectiveness in analysing vast amounts of player data to understand individual player preferences, behaviours and patterns. AI makes the creation of more sophisticated and engaging games possible. Machine learning algorithms used on game elements can adapt game elements in real time, based on player skill and level of engagement.
Fraud detection and prevention: AI-powered systems can also use the massive data they analyse to detect suspicious patterns and flag fraudulent activities in real time. Through this, machine learning helps casino operators detect potential risks to the platform and the casino much faster.
Responsible gambling: AI is adapting to responsible gambling tools and we can expect it to be implemented as a power tool for tracking playing time and setting spending limits. Some operators are implementing these features already, but we expect it to become much more popular with time. AI can also identify problem gambling behaviours and suggest personalised interventions or recommend support helplines based on its analysis of a player’s gambling behaviour⁴.
Efficient customer support: Many customers may have already encountered AI chatbots when seeking customer support online. These tools use natural language processing (NLP) to address basic inquiries, allowing human agents to focus on more complex issues.
Although their full potential remains untapped, further advancements could enable them to handle more sophisticated tasks, ultimately improving response times and enhancing the overall customer service experience.
Virtual reality and augmented reality
Virtual reality, or VR, is computer-generated simulations of three-dimensional environments where players can interact with objects as if they were real. The integration of this technology into the iGaming scene can change the ways we experience casino games on gambling platforms. VR creates immersive environments that can mimic the experience of visiting a physical casino.
While this is already gaining popularity, and industry leaders are adopting VR technology for their games, some challenges arise in implementing VR because of its reliance on specialized equipment. Equipment such as the Oculus or PlayStation VR glasses is required if you want to enjoy the time you spend gaming. Augmented reality (AR), on the other hand, overlays digital elements onto the real world, thereby improving mobile and web gaming experiences. Undoubtedly, this can lead to a more visually engaging scenario in slot games and poker.
Benefits it offers the iGaming industry
Social connectivity: The social aspect of online gaming can be improved if players can interact with each other in real time using VR technology, thereby creating a gaming community atmosphere similar to what you would experience in a physical casino. In the near future, we expect to see more virtual reality casinos where players can not only gamble but also attend virtual concerts, parties and other events in the virtual casino world.
Personalised experiences: AR and VR technologies allow for a higher level of personalisation in gambling than we have currently. Virtual reality games typically allow gamers to customize avatars and choose their preferred gaming environment. Tailoring gaming experiences to match individual preferences using VR and AR tech is something that would also help the iGaming industry to offer players an advanced level of customization never seen before.
New stream of income: The introduction of virtual reality and augmented reality technology in the iGaming industry can create new revenue streams for developers and operators. Developers can overcome the challenges that come with implementing virtual reality tech by creating innovative game designs, user interface and storytelling features, that will in turn create opportunities for returns on investments in VR and AR tech. They can decide to offer exclusive features like in-game purchases or exclusive content to attract players willing to pay for a more enhanced virtual experience.
Blockchain technology
Blockchain technology is rapidly changing the way we manage and store data. It’s a secure, decentralized system that allows users to make fast, reliable transactions without any third-party involvement or risk of fraud or censorship. With the added security it provides, businesses are now able to offer their services to end users without having to worry about potential breaches in security⁵.
Its decentralised nature can help transform the iGaming industry by improving security, transparency and player experience. Its immutable ledger system offers several advantages that could fix some of the common challenges online gaming platforms are facing. Some of the advantages are:
Enhanced security and fraud prevention
Blockchain’s decentralised nature reduces the risk of hacking and fraud. Although iGaming platforms currently incorporate SSL encryption technology, the integration of blockchain technology will make it nearly impossible for malicious actors to alter transaction records, since blockchain stores data across multiple nodes.
If utilised to its full potential, players will be able to verify transactions without relying on third-party sources such as banks or payment processors. This provides an added layer of security for players, allowing them to be confident that their funds are safe and secure.
Some platforms are already implementing cryptocurrency transactions and they are fast becoming fan favourites as the speed and efficiency of payments on these Bitcoin gaming platforms cannot be matched by any other form of online payment.
Player anonymity
Blockchain transactions require only a wallet address, completely eliminating the need for giving out personal information. This will further improve user privacy, making online gambling a more attractive option for gamblers who have always been concerned about data security and regulatory scrutiny in regions where online gambling is heavily regulated or outright illegal.
Traditional online gambling platforms will usually require their users to share their personal and financial details to comply with Anti-money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations, which can discourage potential users from playing online due to privacy concerns. With blockchain, the only details you will need to make a transaction are the sender and recipient’s crypto wallet addresses.
Conclusion
AI, VR, AR and blockchain technology are set to transform iGaming, one of the first industries to benefit from the technological revolution that we are on the brink of. What these advancements bring to the table promises to improve the level of personalisation, security and immersion in the game – and rightly so, as the industry needs to constantly evolve to keep players coming back for more.
for more.
