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5G started rolling out globally in 2019. While we are still a while away from every device on the planet having access to the broad bandwidth, low cost, and low latency networks that 5G offers, we can still take a good look at how it has changed our daily lives.
5G promised lightning-fast connectivity and far superior image quality. These promises are a necessity for industries like iGaming. In this article, we examine how the rollout of 5G has impacted the iGaming industry and its future applications.
The 4G Generation
Without doubt the 4G is a network far more capable than its predecessors, yet by today’s highly advanced standards, it simply isn’t good enough anymore.
4G LTE
4G was introduced globally as an improvement on the existing 3G networks. This meant that you could suddenly watch videos in higher definition with less pixelation and shorter buffering times. You were also able to communicate faster with innovations like Long Term Evolution on most mainstream networks. Verizon’s 4G LTE meant downloading up to ten times faster than before.
4G’s Setting Sun
Technological advancements drive the development of one another. As more devices are sold, and more advancements are made in terms of how we use tech, our networks need to get better. The technological world built by 3G no longer exists and was replaced by 4G.
Now, the world built up and shaped by access to and dependence on 4G is no longer relevant either. 5G is not a choice; it is not an optional advancement; it is a necessity. In terms of progress in all areas of human life, we need faster, safer, more advanced networks.
5G and the iGaming Industry
5G represents one of the most exciting innovations since the advent of the internet. Especially in the iGaming industry, 5G is the catalyst to more people being able to enjoy the finest selection of new online casinos. This will result in higher revenue for all involved in iGaming and an even more extensive expansion of industries dependent on iGaming. There are, however, several more tangible ways 5G impacts iGaming that are more digestible to iGaming enthusiasts.
Why Choose iGaming?
iGaming offers more benefits than brick-and-mortar casinos. While physical casinos can provide complimentary drinks, face-to-face interaction, and more often than not a massive prize giveaway like a car, there’s more to be gained online.
iGaming gives you access to a greater selection of games. Most online casinos offer games suited to various types of players. Games with higher return to player ratios for the hardcore sort, exotic settings for those looking for an escape from daily life, and varied audio-visual environments for a more immersive experience than just looking at a screen.
The variety of sign-up bonuses, in-game, and game-specific features make iGaming a potentially more rewarding way to play. Even if you don’t hit the jackpot, you have a higher probability of scoring free games and power-ups that improve your gaming experience. The other advantage is that iGaming can be done from anywhere. Most online casinos even use HTML technology to bring their services directly to your mobile devices.
Increased Gaming Speed
Slow gaming speed is one of the more common complaints among iGaming enthusiasts. It is also one of the reasons why more people aren’t joining the iGaming phenomenon and instead choose to visit brick and mortar casinos. The slowness users experience is largely due to the unstable connectivity experienced on 4G networks. The bandwidth on 4G is not wide enough to support as many connections as there are now.
5G is a low latency network, which means casinos can broadcast their games live at greater speeds than 4G was ever able to offer. 5G has bandwidth speeds of 3-6 Gigabytes per minute, as much as 20 times more than 4G. This also means more people and more devices can connect to games simultaneously.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Virtual reality is an interactive technological innovation that immerses users in predetermined environments. Samsung released several nature-centric virtual environments and experiences that shipped with early versions of its VR goggles. VR and AR are already in use in many industries, and iGaming is just another place where VR and AR functionality is relevant.
VR headsets and wearable integrated augmented reality pads allow iGaming enthusiasts to be fully immersed in the casino environment. This way, you can reap the many benefits of iGaming over brick and mortar casinos while still experiencing the immersive sounds, eye-catching lights, and visuals of physical casinos.
VR and AR functionality relies heavily on more responsive, low cost and reliable networks. This is something 4G cannot offer. 5G has the bandwidth and network stability required to support fully immersive, high-quality VR and AR experiences.
Final Word
5G is the foundation technology of a faster, more stable, more connected future. 5G network connectivity offers countless benefits for the online world and all who use it. The iGaming industry benefits from faster network speeds and more significant available connection volumes. New technologies like VR and AR will also change the way we experience online gaming. 5G is a necessity for the expansion and growth of the iGaming industry.