Poll results: Internet of Things gambling likely another industry fad
Voters believe smart devices are unlikely to succeed mobile as the preferred channel for betting
The Internet of Things (IoS) is not going to revolutionise the online gambling industry, according to a majority of voters in this week’s poll.
Seventy percent of respondents said gambling on smart devices is another industry fad and will not succeed mobile as the most popular channel for betting.
The concept has raised concerns around security, data protection, and the unlikely shift of bettors from mobile and desktop.
Mansion’s development manager Ben Pesso, for example, said while IoT may be a step towards connecting all devices to the internet, it still lacks the foundation of unified communications.
However, 30% of voters still believe IoT gambling has big potential.
Top-tier operators GVC, Sky Bet, Kindred and Paddy Power Betfair are exploring the possibilities of smart devices, with a particular focus on digital assistants.
Sky Bet head of native development Andy Evans said: “The price points of some products like the Amazon Echo make them very accessible and I think they’re doing a good job of showcasing the products’ capabilities and user benefits.
“That will help drive take up, awareness and potentially drive the Internet of Things market forward as a whole.”