Factors such as smartphone technology, faster internet connections and simplified financial transactions on gambling websites and apps are fueling the growth of the global online gambling market.

These technological advancements have made gambling more accessible than ever, enabling players to gamble anytime from any location. Furthermore, they have transformed traditional casino games into something that offers millions of users an immersive and engaging experience.

Mobile Gaming

Due to the rising popularity of smartphones and tablets, mobile gaming has become a major element in online gambling. It provides consumers with an easy way to bet on sports teams, play casino games, and join poker tournaments.

As a result, online casinos have adopted the mobile format and optimized their apps for improved user experience. Some operators even launched responsible gambling applications in an effort to help players manage their risks and remain in control of their spending.

In 2021, the mobile market is predicted to expand significantly due to higher smartphone adoption and growing interest in virtual gambling. However, this growth could come with risks for users.

Particularly in countries that have yet to legalize online gambling, such as Asia, cybercriminals often take advantage of an unprotected environment on the internet to steal money from victims. Therefore, virtual casinos have taken steps to secure their websites and promote anti-virus software use to safeguard players against such threats.

Virtual Reality (VR)

Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that allows users to experience an interactive simulated environment without leaving their physical location. It’s commonly used in gaming, but could also have applications in medicine and the military.

Virtual reality headsets feature a screen that presents an immersive 3D world and head tracking technology which enables the display to move with you. These devices have become increasingly popular recently and can be acquired from numerous retailers.

VR has many uses and is becoming a prominent trend in online gambling. Not only does it provide a more realistic experience, but it can also serve as an excellent means for gamers to connect with one another.

Another trend in online gambling is live streaming, which allows gamblers to interact with other gamers while they play a game. This is an excellent opportunity for gamers to meet and socialize while they play, potentially leading to long-lasting friendships.

Live Streaming

Live streaming is an increasingly popular trend in online gambling. It allows users to watch games in real time and interact with players on the platform. Furthermore, this gives punters a better chance at winning since they can receive real-time information regarding their wagers and bets.

Casino live streaming is an exciting and engaging way to bring the excitement of online gaming to a global audience. It can draw new players in as well as encourage veteran ones to bet higher by showcasing jackpots, big wins, and high stakes gameplay.

Though streaming is an influential medium, it is essential to consider its effects on children and young people. This could include exploitation of personal details or broadcasting offensive or inappropriate content.

Social Gaming

Studies of young adults have demonstrated a connection between social gaming and online gambling behaviors (Gainsbury et al. 2014a; King & Delfabbro 2016).

Research is emerging which suggests the connection between social casino gaming and online gambling may have potential repercussions for disordered gambling. This is because social casino games offer players a sense of skill without any actual risk, which may serve as a deterrent for gamblers (Wohl et al. 2017).

It is also possible that the high payout rate of social casino games may encourage players to stay longer. This could create a sense of skill and self-worth similar to gambling, which in turn increases their desire for real money wagering.

To better understand the connection between social casino gaming and online gambling, focus groups were conducted with young adult online gamblers to uncover their motivations for doing so. The results indicate a complex interaction between social casino gaming and online gambling.