The gambling industry in 2020, as well as other ones, has felt the impact of the pandemic. While land-based gambling establishments were closed, many online operators increased their revenues. The digitalization of the gambling industry is a change that cannot be stopped. And the COVID-19 pandemic only spurred it on, playing into the hands of online gambling. The average revenue growth in the industry at the end of 2020 was + 48%. Now online gambling is at the peak of its popularity, and it will continue to develop.
New online gambling possibilities
Today, when forming the range of online casinos, one should take into account the fact that the audience of potential consumers has radically different preferences in relation to software manufacturers. Ideally, operators need to have in their games library the proposals of several dozen popular developers, each of which has its own characteristics in the graphics and the gameplay. At the same time, the games should be literally for every taste. Let’s consider the most interesting and promising game formats and innovative technologies/
- A virtual reality. Virtual reality is an integral part of the modern gambling world, and casinos are already using this technology. VR offers an explosive mix of real and digital worlds to make your gambling experience unforgettable. Imagine you are at home in your living room with a bright and colorful casino around you. Slots, blackjack and roulette are all within arm’s reach.
- Live games. The online gambling industry has opened up a new world for users. For example, in new generation bookmakers, you can place bets on current events, follow live broadcasts. The same can be said for live casino games with real dealers. Most online casinos offer table games streamed in real time from live studios and run by friendly dealers. Players can communicate with the dealers and with each other through the chat system. It makes the gameplay even more realistic.
- Games with skills elements. The launch of skill-based slots is a new era of online casino development which attracts a young audience of players. This game format was created for those who like to think, and do not solely rely on luck.
- Artificial Intelligence. Another major technological breakthrough that could significantly change online gambling in the coming years is artificial intelligence. The use of AI and machine learning will allow online platforms to have chatbots that can respond to complex player requests. In addition, the ability to track what users expect from games will allow developers to meet all the needs of players.
With such trends in mind, the leading online gambling sites will soon need to update their catalogs to gain a competitive edge in the marketplace. Accounting for user requests on official sites such as Shangri La shows itself today in several ways. This is not only about the formation of an extensive catalog of games from the world’s leading developers – today you can find 2,000+ games from 50+ providers here. The platform contains not only real money games, but also demos. They are in demand both among amateurs who just want to have a good rest, and among professional players interested in working out their skills.
The operator is constantly developing the gambling platform, adding new software and implementing innovative functions. In addition to slots, the collection includes scratchcards, games with skill elements, a livecasino and much more.
The sportsbook has been allocated a separate category. You can place bets on traditional sports as well as e-sports and virtual sports, pre-match and in-play.
Moreover, the site offers users pleasant bonuses, for example, tournaments with cash prizes, and takes care of the convenient money transactions.
Mobile software
More and more players are using mobile phones to play casino games. They all want to be mobile and not depend on a bulky PC or laptop – tablets and smartphones come to the rescue, which are always at hand. This trend is likely to continue in the coming years, which is why we will see more gambling sites with special apps for Android and iOS, and with an improved interface.
With mobile platforms, 3.8 billion smartphone owners can play casinos anywhere, anytime. Most mobile casinos are browser-based, although the most popular gambling sites are also accessible via apps. For example, the Shangri La Casino and Sports website is fully adapted for any mobile platform. However, in 2021, for the users’ convenience, a mobile application was also launched. The application can be downloaded directly from the main site, and the games range is not reduced. Players have access to the same functions as PC users: payment methods, bonuses, support.
Modern payment methods
Almost every online casino supports bank card deposits and withdrawals. Industry leaders lay special emphasis to the expanding range of payment methods. These are not only electronic wallets and terminals, but also payments in cryptocurrency. The trend of the last 2-3 years has been the use of bitcoins for payments in online casinos. According to experts, in 2021, the number of platforms where they will accept and pay out winnings in cryptocurrency will increase significantly. And this can be an additional source of income for online casinos.
