Trends in online gambling – “Wearability” of online gambling
One of the trends in online gambling is for players to have the games close to them at all times. This is called “wearability”. Not to be confused with “portability”.
Trends in online gambling
Short introduction
So companies like Samsung, Fitbit and Garmin have been trying to tap into this emerging market since 2010 and have created a series of smartwatches that have changed the digital technology landscape forever. Wearable technology has over time managed to conquer major market segments and today almost anyone who considers themselves in step with modern trends owns a piece of wearable technology in one form or another. This technology has proven its worth and over time, more and more industries have made efforts to tap into this growing market, with online casinos topping the list.
Growing popularity of smartwatches in online gambling
Smartwatches are gaining in popularity, whether used for sports (fitness), messaging or gaming. They are also storing more and more technology and data processing power. It is therefore not surprising that this new class of digital devices is seeing increased adoption in the gaming industry, with vendors such as Playtech already offering slot machine apps for Apple Watches.
The advantages for operators are obvious. Held closer to the body than a smartphone, a smartwatch is more present in the user’s awareness, meaning they are more likely to play slots on a whim or out of boredom (such as while standing in line). The design of today’s handheld devices also makes the gaming experience more engaging than on mobile, as players only see the information needed for a game without being distracted by too many buttons.
With all these advantages, gaming apps on handheld devices are a niche product and users are still more likely to access online casinos and betting sites from desktop or mobile. Moreover, with so many operating systems besides watchOS and WearOS, it’s difficult for gaming operators to design games for all alternatives. Even individual models from the same manufacturer differ greatly: while some have round screens, others are angular or a hybrid of mechanical and digital display elements.
Casino games are being developed especially for smartphones
Online casino software developers are working tirelessly to make it possible to play casino games on handheld technology gadgets such as smartwatches, etc. While it may seem impossible to play casino games on a small square or circular screen, the idea remains that the online gaming industry will do anything to make this avenue work for players to bring money into the online gaming operators’ account.
Microgaming is, for example, one of the pioneers of smartwatch-based casino games. The company has a limited but excellent range of games available for smartwatches, including popular titles such as Thunderstruck and The Dark Knight Rises. These online casino game titles place all the essential information on the smartwatch screen and remove all unnecessary elements, making for a much more focused and action-packed experience right on your wrist. Online casinos are also working to incorporate smartwatches as peripheral accessories by introducing touch gestures to enhance the gaming experience. Right now the options seem limited, but the future of smartwatch-based online gambling is certainly a bright one.
What can you play on a smartwatch?
You can choose from a variety of board games. Among them, experts have found that video poker plays very well on smartwatches. Simple games of Baccarat and Craps work just as well, as does Roulette.
To make it all work the way you want it’s important to choose the right app to work with your smartwatch software. With some mobile apps, you can even claim and get some extra bonuses just for downloading the software.
The recommendation is, until you get used to this kind of fun on such a small device, start with small bets. This will save you money in the long run until you get used to the look of online casinos on your smartwatch. Many platforms offer the chance to play games in demo mode first, which is ideal.
Wearability of online gambling
The benefits and drawbacks of playing a smart watch
Benefits of playing a smart watch
Play from wherever you are: just like with a handheld mobile device, you can play anywhere you have a stable internet connection. Gambling on smartwatches offers more discretion.
Easy to use: gambling on your smartwatch is simple, download an app or log in to your casino account using a mobile web browser.
App development: as the online gambling world understands the demands of players, apps are getting better and better.
Multifunctional: Now on your phone besides checking your internet banking activity and listening to your favourite music you can play slots. Plus, games take up very little space in your phone’s storage memory.
Disadvantages of playing games on a smart watch
Reduced selection of games: Due to the smaller screens of smartwatches, there are a limited number of casino games to choose from. Some slots simply won’t work well enough on a “wearable”. This is only a temporary problem, as game manufacturers make more and more games that are easy to play on the watch.
Limited apps: Because smartwatch gaming is still a relatively new concept, most online casinos offer mobile apps for iOS and Android users, but very few offer specific smartwatch gaming apps.
Small screen: Not much to say here. Obviously the entertainment on a small device doesn’t compare to that on a mobile phone or tablet in terms of screen size, but over time, there will be generations of players who will get used to these kinds of devices and perhaps change the overall experience.
Sources: applause.com, pcdrome.com, casinotopsonline.com
