Since March 1, licensed gambling apps in states where online gambling is legal to take place have been able to add the application to the Google Play Store. Google changes its polices recently and the option is something that US online gambling companies want to take advantage of. The first to get started in the Play Store was DraftKings. As of this week, the brand launched its online casino and sportsbook app within the store.
More to Come
In the United States, there are almost 30 apps featuring online casino gaming in operation. These apps are offered in specific states. Most operators offer an Android and iOS version, but the Android option was not able to be added for download directly in the Play Store due to the old policies. However, iOS users could easily find the option in the App Store.
With apps not offered in the Play Store, it limited the number of customers that would download the option. A workaround had to be used to download the application and, in the process, players might think it was unsafe to do so, even though that was not the case.
Mobile gaming is the method of choice for online gamblers in the US. So, having an option in the Play Store and Apple Store are a must. This latest development via Google should see operators experience a big jump in player traffic and revenues.
Meeting Requirements
It’s been almost two weeks and so far, only DraftKings has launched its apps via Google Play. Why haven’t others jumped on the bandwagon? Well, for starters, their app needs to meet certain requirements. It has only been just over a month since the change was announced. Many operators are still working on meeting the set criteria to launch their application in the store.
Requirements set by Google include the developer obtaining a valid gambling license in the correct jurisdiction for each product type. The app must also use geolocation technology and have an age verification process. The operator needs to add the correct rating for the app, including Adult Only if applicable.
The app must be free to download and install. Responsible gambling messaging must be included within the app and be featured prominently. Of course, all of this is something that operators must meet anyways to offer online gambling services. But with Google, there is a verification process that must be completed before an app can be added. This can take a few days to complete.
So even though an operator may have applied for launch via the Google Play Store, it needs to wait for verification before it will be listed in the store.
For now, DraftKings will have a slight advantage. Since it is the first to go live via the Play Store, new players will have no trouble downloading the option and getting started with gameplay. Download times and short and the app is easy to log in to with an existing account or to create a new one.
