Silicon Valley in Northern California is globally regarded as a centre for technology. It’s home to more than 30 organisations that are in the Fortune 1000. There are also many innovative startups based in Silicon Valley, so it’s a hive of creativity.
This creativity in Silicon Valley is shaping the way we live, as technology plays a vital role in the human experience. Online gambling is part of this experience for around 17% of the world population, and technology that often has its origins in Silicon Valley is essential to its development. We are going to take a closer look at how this technology is shaping online gambling.
The growth of artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence involves the development of computer systems and robots that can complete tasks that would normally require the input of human intelligence. AI is used in several ways in the world of online gambling, including:
- Collecting and analysing data that helps to identify patterns which may suggest that people are attempting to cheat the system.
- Allowing tips to be provided to players to improve their playing techniques by analysing their gameplay.
- Identifying signs that players could be gambling too often or spending too much money.
In the case of the last point, using AI to collect data and complete analysis allows online casino operators to promote responsible gambling. In countries like the United Kingdom (UK), this promotion is industry-wide. Any online casino that is licensed in the UK is listed on GAMSTOP. Players can register with GAMSTOP and self-exclude from all sites that are listed. Some people prefer to play at casinos not on GAMSTOP that are licensed in other countries. Many of these casinos also use AI to provide their own responsible gambling tools.
Personalising the experience
One of the uses of AI we listed was using data and analysis to provide tips to individuals based on previous gameplay. Providing these tips is part of personalising the user experience. There are other ways that technology and the use of data can help with this, including:
- Providing bonuses and promotions that are appealing to a player.
- Suggesting new games that individuals may like.
- Making it easy for people to find their favourite content by personalising search results.
Using technology to personalise the online gambling experience in this way creates a closer connection between players and the site they are using making it more likely they will remain loyal.
Virtual reality and the future of online gambling
Virtual reality (VR) is the creation of three-dimensional images and environments that people can interact with in what seems to be a real way. This interaction involves using electronic equipment such as gloves with sensors and VR headsets. VR is yet to take a foothold in online gambling, but there is potential for it to have a significant influence going forward.
An example of this is to allow people playing cards online to interact with other players almost as they would at a land-based casino. Live online casino action already allows this to happen to a certain extent, but the development of a VR casino experience would take it a step further.
These three areas of Silicon Valley technology are shaping online gambling today as well as taking it forward into the future.
