Evolution of Mobile Betting
The advent of smartphones and tablets has dramatically transformed many industries, not least of all gambling. In a relatively short period of time, mobile devices have fundamentally altered how, where, when, why and for whom gambling happens.
This technological shift has expanded the gambling market exponentially, introducing new products, platforms, operators and demographics. According to research, the mobile gambling market was valued at $68.7 billion in 2020 globally. This is expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.9% from 2021 to 2028.
Look at Key Mobile Gambling Statistics
The numbers highlight the massive impact mobile technology has had:
| Year | Total Mobile Gamblers | Mobile Gambling Revenue | Portion of Total Gambling Revenue |
| 2016 | 164.6 million | $22.9 billion | 34.7% |
| 2020 | 312.2 million | $68.7 billion | 50.7% |
| 2028 (projected) | 710 million | $179 billion | 72% |
As these statistics show, mobile devices now account for the majority of all online gambling activity globally. Platforms, like Stay Casino online, are no longer just a supplementary add-on – mobile is now the dominant interface through which most individuals place bets online.
Expanding Access and Convenience
One of the main appeals of mobile gambling is the sheer convenience and accessibility it provides. Players can access real money games instantly, anywhere with internet connectivity – no need to be tied to a computer or visit a venue.
Mobile gaming puts the casino or sportsbook directly in a punter’s pocket, available within taps and swipes. This frictionless, on-the-go accessibility expands the scenarios and settings in which consumers gamble. Players may place a casual bet while commuting, waiting in line, during a work break – times inconceivable in the pre-mobile era.
This convenience and expanded access accelerates activity volumes. According to Juniper Research, the average mobile gambler spends 3 hours more per month betting than desktop users. By removing friction and expanding opportunities to play, mobile devices drive higher overall engagement.
Demographics & Attraction
The mobile channel also enables gambling operators to penetrate fresh demographics that have not previously engaged significantly in betting. Women, ethnic minorities, seniors and youth are all demographics demonstrating heightened participation in mobile gambling.
In particular, mobile is driving strong uptake among Millennials and Gen Z. Younger consumers – having grown up on smart devices – display a clear preference for mobile experiences. They also gravitate to the innovative products and UX introduced by mobile gambling apps. According to research, over 65% of Millennials used mobile for betting purposes in 2020.
As a result, the player base has grown far more diverse than in the past. This is reflected in marketing as operators showcase a wider range of ages, genders and backgrounds in branding assets and campaigns. Ultimately mobile technology has been hugely impactful in making gambling more inclusive.
Responsible Gambling Concerns
However alongside the many benefits, the mobile channel also raises some concerns around responsible gambling and consumer protection. The constant accessibility of mobile enables may increase problematic usage and addiction potential for vulnerable individuals.
Additionally, verifying age and identity remotely poses challenges in restricting underage access. To address these issues, many regulators worldwide now require operators to implement responsible gambling features into mobile apps and sites. These include spend limits, time-outs, self-exclusion programs, age gating procedures and more.
Ongoing consumer education is also required to encourage players to gamble responsibly and seek support if needed. Finding the right balance remains an evolving, collaborative process between regulators, operators and support groups.
Industry Transformed
In summary, smart devices have been highly revolutionary for betting, driving impressive market growth and reaching new demographics. However the increased access and convenience mobile enables also raises responsible gambling obligations.
Ultimately mobile technology has fundamentally transformed when, for whom and how gambling happens across the world. The stats clearly show that mobile is now the engine of expansion, engagement and revenue in the gambling industry today.
