Playtech enters multi-year RG partnership with Vegas college
Operator to collaborate with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas to develop and utilize “sustainable gaming technology” in sports betting
Playtech has entered into a multi-year collaboration with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) to develop and implement new technology designed to promote safer gambling practices.
The partnership will see the UK-based operator work with UNLV’s International Gaming Institute (IGI) on “various topics of shared interest, drawing on the extensive experience of both organizations.”
The pair’s first priority will be developing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning tools which encourage responsible gambling (RG) habits.
Playtech has already committed funding to an IGI project exploring how AI can be used to train chatbots that encourage safer gambling behaviors among sports bettors.
The operator will also support an internship in the inaugural Gaming Manufacturing Internship Program, held at the IGI’s Center for Gaming Innovation.
Jonathan Doubilet, Playtech’s VP of US business operations, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with the prestigious UNLV IGI.
“Their expertise in the gambling and technology sector helps continue to generate powerful insights that benefit all stakeholders in advancing player protection.
“Supporting their cutting-edge research, to lead the way in developing innovative solutions to enhance player protection and promote safer gambling behaviors, is a priority for us.”
Dr Kasra Ghaharian, the IGI’s director of research, added: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Playtech in advancing our responsible gambling research. Their expertise in artificial intelligence and machine learning is crucial in promoting safer gambling behaviors among players all around the world.
“Playtech’s dedication to reducing gambling-related harm, aligns with our own goals of employing the most advanced methodologies to understand, predict, and prevent potential gambling harm.
“As responsible gambling becomes increasingly important in the US and around the world, our collaboration with Playtech is more vital than ever.”
Last month, Playtech announced the sale of its Snaitech brand to Flutter Entertainment in a deal worth €2.3bn ($2.5bn).
Upon completion of the deal, which is expected in Q2 2025, the operator said it planned to give up to $2bn back to shareholders via a special dividend.
The firm then went on to announce revenue of $1bn for the first half of 2024, representing a 5% increase year over year.