Slots are a major part of the UK iGaming scene. For example, research by the Gambling Commission found that slot games generated £3.2 billion in gross gambling yield (GGY) within a single year.
There are thousands of slots available to play online, providing a quick and simple gambling experience. And as hardware and software evolve, online slot sites will continue to change in exciting ways, too.
What does the future hold for this area of the industry? Join us as we peer into our crystal ball and make four predictions!
Increased Cryptocurrency Presence
Cryptocurrency has become more mainstream in recent years. Even if many people don’t understand how it works or what benefits it offers yet, numerous companies in the iGaming industry are aware of its potential.
Gradually, cryptocurrencies are gaining acceptance at slot sites — and that’s likely to continue for the foreseeable future. Players will be able to use Bitcoin and other well-known cryptos to deposit funds into their accounts, instead of debit cards, credit cards, or other methods.
Blockchain technology offers greater privacy than traditional financial systems: players who want to stay anonymous while they gamble can enjoy more peace of mind. It’s also highly secure, which is crucial to protect sensitive data.
VR Integration for More Immersive Games
Playing slots on a screen and interacting with buttons is one thing. But how about seeing the reels rolling and symbols spinning before your eyes in amazing 3D, as if you can reach out and touch them?
VR casinos are already available, including the pioneering SlotsMillion, which allows users to explore an immersive virtual casino with a full 360-degree view. But VR will become more commonplace at online slot sites.
More AI for Improved Security and Personalization
Artificial intelligence (AI) is being integrated into various aspects of everyday life, such as using your phone’s smart assistant to find a nearby pizza place or getting recommendations on streaming apps.
But AI will allow online slot sites to provide a stronger, safer experience. They will be able to analyse user behaviour and preferences in greater detail than ever. As a result, the best slot sites will deliver a higher level of personalization.
For example, that may include offering tailored rewards that align with a player’s tastes and gambling preferences. Providing bespoke rewards will help sites increase player engagement and build VIP/loyalty schemes that feel relevant, instead of taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
AI is capable of identifying fraudulent activity with remarkable accuracy and efficiency, too. It can analyse huge amounts of data and spot unusual patterns that indicate suspicious behaviour. That will help protect casinos from bad actors and create a more secure gaming environment for customers.
Playing Mobile
A Greater Focus on Mobile Play
Mobile compatibility is vital for the best online slot sites. Providing the flexibility to play on a smartphone or tablet, rather than just a desktop or laptop computer, allows a casino to cater to diverse gaming preferences.
Leading slot sites operated by high-profile, reputable companies largely run on mobile devices. They’re easy to navigate, adjust to different screen sizes organically, and offer a huge selection of mobile-friendly games.
However, not all sites suit smartphones and tablets well. They can be clunky and confusing. As mobile continues to be the go-to browsing choice for players the world over, online slot sites must deliver a satisfying experience regardless of the device used.
In the future, a mobile-first development approach will be essential for operators. Everything from the menus to the slots themselves should prioritise mobile browsers, rather than it being an afterthought.
Conclusion
The future of online slot sites looks set to be exciting for long-time and new players alike. VR may be one of the biggest and most transformative emerging trends. Stepping into a virtual casino with realistic 3D graphics via a headset, encountering other players, will take online gambling to a whole new level.
However, the increasing integration of immersive technologies and personalization must be handled with care to help people stay in control. It’s crucial that operators continue to encourage responsible gambling and offer helpful resources to any players who need it.
We’ve looked into the future, but what do the best slot sites offer today? Browse Gambling Zone’s guide to the top sites in the UK to find out!
