The modern world relies on technology to keep everything running, anyone will be hard-pressed to find a business where tech is not somehow integrated into the day to day running of the business. There is a reason why each period of human history is measured by its level of technology. It represents the height of human excellence and offers hope of a future where many of the things that plague society can be erased. Naturally, virtually every industry in the world has used technology to grow and maintain its business, and one example of an industry that has done this exceptionally well is the gambling industry.
Historically, those who enjoyed gambling would only be able to go to a casino or a betting shop if they wanted to play. The experience of doing this now is still good, but it suffers from a few inconveniences that are not present in other methods of gambling. The technological revolution has afforded the industry several opportunities, but the one change that has seen the most impact is the creation of an online space for gambling. This development changed the scene forever as most people could continue to participate in their favourite hobby from the comfort of their own homes. Humans are generally creatures of convenience so when we are provided with an easier option to something, chances are we take it.
The impact that online gambling has had on the industry is massive. Obviously, the revenue of the industry has risen as more players now play. A physical venue and online venue for something will always increase the customer base as not everyone can or wants to go out and travel somewhere. Inversely, the implementation of online gambling has also had a negative effect – it has cannibalised the revenue of some land-based casinos. The global online gambling market is expected to reach around $112 billion by 2025, showing that online gambling is popular and is only going in one direction. This has negative connotations for traditional casinos and betting shops who rely on footfall to pay maintenance costs, wages, and earn revenue.
Other technologies have helped the growth of the gambling industry by offering even more convenience. Convenience is after all at the heart of new technology, and nowhere can this have seen more than the creation of the smartphone. This globalised the world even more as many people would always have a phone with them, allowing them access to reach anyone in the world. In the same way, people no longer would have to go on a desktop or laptop to gamble, they could pull out a phone from the pocket and play regardless of location. Essentially, the smartphone added another platform on which players can gamble and represented many opportunities for companies invested in the industry. Those who are not in regions such as Alabama, you can find an example of these gambling laws, will enjoy the wide range of apps available.
Technology has had a huge impact on the gambling industry, as it has most others. The changes it heralded ensured that players enjoyed increased convenience and a huge amount of choice when it comes to gambling.