A few weeks ago, it was made known by gaming regulators of Pennsylvania that sports betting would be launching soon online followed by casino and poker gaming. This week, we have now learned that the SugarHouse Casino has begun the testing phase of their online sports betting services, set to go live at the end of the week.
Ready to Go
Live testing of SugarHouse sportsbook online offering began yesterday and will continue today and Thursday. The testing phases will only be for short time frames before the full launch is expected on Friday. If the testing phases go off without a hitch, the online offering will be allowed to operate 24/7 once approved by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
As of right now, the app from SugarHouse for sports betting is only offered via Android devices. Apple users will have to wait until the app is approved to gain access. However, desktop is an option as well. Players who have an existing account in New Jersey for the PlaySugarHouse online gaming site have the option to use express sign up for an account in Pennsylvania. Players must deposit separately to gain access to real money wagering.
During the testing phases, only five options are offered for depositing. Players can use cash at the casino cage of the SugarHouse, a Discover card, MasterCard, Visa or SugarHouse Prepaid Card. Players will have to be patient when it comes to more financial methods as well as iOS access.
Betting Services
The new app for the SugarHouse Casino in Pennsylvania is powered by the Kambi Group. The company already provides odds for the Rivers and SugarHouse retail sportsbooks in PA. Kambi is also the partner of the SugarHouse in New Jersey for their online gaming site.
It is expected that the Pennsylvania online sportsbook will operate similarly to the New Jersey offering. Players should expect a wide variety of sports to wager on including major sports leagues in the United States and international sports like soccer.
To be ready to launch, SugarHouse had to be reviewed extensively by regulators. Their app and site had to pass several tests including underage gambler restrictions, geo-location and more. Regulators want to be sure that underage gamblers cannot access the app or gaming site via desktop.
With geo-location technology, SugarHouse ensures that players are located within the borders of Pennsylvania before allowing wagering to take place. This technology must work correctly for regulators to allow the brand to operate in the state online.
During the days of testing, regulators will be checking to ensure SugarHouse is in compliance and that all restrictions and technology are in place.
It is an exciting time for the state of Pennsylvania as now players have access to some form of online gambling. Over the next few weeks, it is expected that more online sports betting operations will launch but specific dates and operators remain unknown.
Online casino and poker gaming is also expected to come soon, with a tentative launch date set for July 15th.
