When the world transitioned into the digital age in the 1980s, marking the beginning of the Information Era, the gambling industry swiftly followed suit. Internet gambling websites went live in the 1990s, and as operators strived for upwards trajectory and higher monthly users, the online gambling industry shifted its attention from virtual casinos to online sportsbooks.
No Easy Ride
As technology became more popular, and bigger and better platforms emerged, online casinos had to appropriately adjust their business models and add new functions. For instance, although it debuted in 1993, live streaming became massively popularized in the mid-2010s after video sharing platforms like Twitch, now notorious for gamers, adopted the technology.
Before an online casino, such as Paddy Power, implemented streaming functions like live casinos games (for example, Quantum Blackjack Live and Live Roulette Lobby), these platforms had a noticeable absence of other human faces.
The Benefits of Casino Streaming
Now, alongside providing the standard slot machines and classic games, almost all top-rated casino operators offer interactive games that utilize cutting-edge streaming technology to create authentic atmospheres. For instance, when playing live blackjack and roulette, players can interact with real-time card dealers while at home, creating a unique and immersive experience. In some ways, this imitates gameplay within a land-based casino, but also conveniently allows players to enjoy this experience from the comfort and convenience of their own homes.
This immersion is why other forms of technology like virtual reality have also become so popular over the years. Virtual reality takes everyday activities to different levels, just as live casino streaming does, allowing individuals to bet-in-play and track how games transpire in real-time.
As beneficial as casino streaming has been to players, the technology has also allowed operators to expand their business models, generate new revenue streams, and attract new demographics. For instance, just as casinos offer live stream games, many also have sportsbooks that offer live streams of sporting events, from horse races and tennis to soccer games.
Live-streamed sports is an elevated gambling experience as it means more hedging opportunities — bettors can wager on multiple outcomes — and it attracts new consumers to a platform.
What’s Next For Casino Streaming?
A lot of credit has to go to casino operators who recognized at the start just how important multi-platform streaming technology is for the industry. Casino streaming created a better user experience, which, in turn, improved online gambling frequency. However, there’s another factor at play here: video-streaming platforms like Twitch have contributed to this increased frequency, too.
In January 2021, Twitch had 9.9 million active streamers; the personalities on the platform play video games and casino games, providing viewers with tips, tricks, and reviews. As the contribution of the online gaming community helps casino operators to see higher monthly users, it would not be surprising if top-rated casinos team up with some of the personalities with millions of followers on Twitch in the future.
When streaming became popular in the mid-2010s, it transformed the social media industry. For instance, Instagram lives have become the go-to way of sharing, rather than posting.
However, it also influenced the online casino sector. Through immersive streaming technology, betting is now more engaging and interesting, and it provides players with additional opportunities, from in-play betting to wagering on multiple outcomes.
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