With the launch of online sports betting and casino gaming and Pennsylvania, iOS users were left lacking. Recent changes within the Apple company required certain specifics for new applications and providers of sports betting and online casino gaming for the state were not ready with the requirements by launch date. Instead of delaying services, they simply launched with online options via desktop or for Android users.
Borgata Sport was the first to launch an iOS app in Pennsylvania back in May and now the Parx Casino Sportsbooks becomes the second in the state to offer Appler iPhone and iPad users access to an application.
New App for Parx
On August 5th, Parx launched the new app in the Apple App Store, having been accepted by the company as a viable option for gameplay. Operators have to create an application that meets terms and conditions, with real-money gaming apps moving to native iOS coding. Apple also required the applications from casinos and sportsbooks to be more app-like rather than ‘wrapped’ versions of the websites for the brands.
iPhone and iPad users can now visit the Apple App Store and download the new application on their device. This should help Parx to see a nice uptick in sports bets over the next few months as they will not be fixed to just Android users.
Only Sportsbetting
Parx Casino operates both online sport betting and casino gaming. The brand did launch the app for sportsbetting for iOS users, but the online casino does not have an Apple option. Currently, only PlaySugarHouse is the only online casino in Pennsylvania that offers an iOS accessible option. This is not an app however, but a second app known as GeoGuard which allows players to use their web browser to access gaming.
It is unclear as to when the online casino application will be ready for iOS devices. One would imagine that Parx would be working quickly to have the option available to users so that they can provide more users with their content.
However, Parx may be struggling with their online casino site as the brand has already removed titles from their gaming library. Just a few weeks ago, the video poker variant Deuces Wild was removed from the library. Next came the removal of China Shores and African Diamond, both slot games.
The only details about the removal is that Parx made the decision with their gaming provider as well as with the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
In regards to the iOS sports betting application, hopefully the progress made by Parx will help other operators to get the ball rolling on their own applications. To be successful via mobile, both Android and iOS devices need to have access to the gaming content. Shutting out one demographic has the potential to lose a ton of revenues.
We shall see in the coming months if operators are able to get their applications approved by Apple and join the Borgata and Parx in offering online sports betting via iPhone and iPad devices.
