Augmented Reality (AR) is confidently expanding into new areas, and even education and healthcare are integrating this technology into their training programmes. Some industries, such as iGaming, are historically more receptive to innovations and tech advancements. They do this reasonably since innovations swiftly become competitive advantages and opportunities to increase profits.
In this review, Seisan professionals will share their expertise in AR integration in the iGaming industry. This immersive technology undoubtedly opens a new chapter in iGaming history, offering players deeply personal and interactive experiences.
Why AR Perfectly Suits iGaming Companies?
AR is a modern, cutting-edge technology that combines digital images, sounds, and information on top of the surroundings people most often see in their real lives. Many proactive iGaming operators have already implemented this technology since it makes gambling more engaging.
AR captivates by providing players with a tangible environment that looks real but features fantastic gameplay at the same time. This setting allows users to immerse themselves in another world, but preserve the clarity of perception, as if they were in a real one. On top of that, AR in iGaming also offers virtual adventures.
Players no longer need to stare at a screen and passively observe how the outcomes of their actions appear. They can become a part of the plot and gameplay, stepping into the action. They can scan and explore environments, looking for treasures or similar items that grant rewards.
No need to say that AR engages. Integrating it into the gaming portfolio automatically makes market operators forget how to ensure a high engagement rate, one of the most pressing issues for iGaming providers. The real-world AR integrations boost engagement rates because permanent movement and context make victories feel earned. Even if the players don’t have any victories, they still experience plenty of positive emotions because of the innovative gameplay.
How Does AR Work in iGaming?
AR combines the functionality of several devices, such as a camera and sensors. It also needs a stable Internet connection to detect your surroundings and place the objects from the gameplay there. In a moment, you appear in totally new surroundings.
Speaking more precisely about the stages of its launch, they are the following:
- Device detection. The AR applications first scan the surrounding area using your camera. The sensor also helps to create an interactive environment based on the gameplay.
- Augmented view. Once the technology scans the surroundings, it places 3D objects onto it. These may be cards, slot machines, or other game elements.
- User interaction. A player can interact with the game by touching their screen or moving the device they use to play in any direction.
Here’s an example of how AR is applied for a casino. It can place a roulette wheel in front of the player, making it feel like a real one. The game becomes far more engaging and interactive this way.
Challenges Market Players Face
As with any other technology and innovation, AR integration also brings both challenges and superior opportunities. These are key issues that need attention and specialized expertise:
1. Data privacy and security
AR collects personal data, such as user location, device credentials, voice, and camera inputs. The risk of hacking this data is among the most urgent to address, given the potential fines that may be imposed on iGaming companies for the breaches.
The issue is especially urgent when it touches on compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU. When iGaming companies offer their services in the EU or to EU residents, they must comply strictly with the GDPR. The breach may lead to imposing sanctions that may be unbearable for the business.
Beyond effective data storage policies, GDPR compliance is impossible without strengthening the technical side of the iGaming platform. When innovative technologies have just been integrated, professionals with vast expertise in both security and AR can implement them smoothly, eliminating vulnerabilities that could lead to potential data breaches and fines.
2. Fair gameplay
Traditional online casinos must ensure the fairness of their games. When AR is integrated into iGaming, it brings more visual and interactive experiences. However, those should be gained without sacrificing the fairness of the game. This goal can be achieved through the set of measures:
- implementing transparent and certified algorithms;
- integrating anti-cheating systems;
- applying effective real-time monitoring to detect potentially suspicious transactions in a timely manner.
Depending on the nature of the business, an online casino or betting platform, other measures may be required as well. Different casino games may also require tailored solutions.
Since players enjoy maximum freedom in the environments boosted by AR, there’s a higher risk of manipulation. Professional developers have to ensure that the game rules and the actual outcomes that players get align.
3. Identity and player verification
Implementing AR in iGaming provides players with the opportunity to play the game using their avatar. However, iGaming platforms must ensure that such avatars represent real users.
The requirements of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) also remain on the agenda. Sufficient age verification and KYC must always be carried out in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
Developers also have to ensure there are no fake or duplicated accounts. The latter ones are often created for bonus abuse.
4. Preventing harassment and abuse
Virtual environments have to be the spaces for entertainment and getting extra income, but not for abusive behavior. Mutual respect on the iGaming platform should be backed by real-time monitoring.
The iGaming platforms with AR should devote safe zones. Integrating mute/block features to maximize the safety and personal comfort of compliant users is another feasible solution. Effective monitoring and reporting tools will support these processes for fast decision-making.
Hardware Issues
The other side to AR implementation should be fairly noted as well. This technology is more energy-consuming and sometimes requires specialized hardware. The headsets often cost a fortune, exceeding $1,000. Even though it is possible to find cheaper or used options; anyway, the use of a headset and its costs limit access to the games. This implication affects the further game monetization.
However, in most cases, headsets can be replaced with an ordinary camera or smartphone. Still, phone overheating is another common problem during extended AR use.
These issues need to be communicated clearly to users, especially regarding the potential for battery drain. The latter will lead to breaking the games and losing wagers.
Besides that, tracking data often raises user concerns. The location date can be used for device tracking. Professional developers can address this issue by applying encryption and other advanced security features.
Beyond the customer aspect, there’s also another important consideration. Implementing AR requires specialized equipment and expertise. Yes, developers need to have special tools and software to smoothly integrate and tune the headset, which is a specialized equipment in itself.
Game testing is another challenge because of the need to feel and experience the gameplay first-hand. Numerous game rounds and continuous bug fixes often cause developer fatigue. This complexity consequently also increases integration costs. Implementing tailored approaches and advanced technologies, such as AI, takes time to ensure smooth operation and an excellent customer experience.
What’s Next: Emerging AR Trends
Beyond addressing the above issues that always remain on the agenda, there are also other no less valuable points. Professional developers continually strive to advance AR technology and implement advanced solutions.
AI integration is the key priority in this case. In AR, it is focused on creating more adaptive environments. For instance, AI algorithms can map the player’s surroundings instantly, recognize objects such as furniture, and use them in gameplay.
Other notable innovatios also deserve special attention. For example, eye-tracking for intuitive control delivers hands-free AR applications. Integrating a multiplayer AR is another meaningful future trend.
Without doubt, improving graphics will always remain on the agenda in the future. Apart from image quality, the iGaming industry will also need entertainment effects to further bolster gaming experiences.
Bottom Line
AR shifts from passive observation to active involvement. It creates immersive environments that can increase retention rates and improve user experiences.
However, certain constraints require specialized expertise to be fully addressed. Data security is among the top priorities for the nearest future. On balance, sufficient player verification for compliance and preventing abuse in the virtual environments should be fully addressed as well.
Technical limitations, such as the need for specialized headsets, may be partially compensated by smartphones. However, arranging the smooth gameplay always requires plenty of time and specialized software as well.
Beyond those, many iGaming companies and developers are interested in going the extra mile by integrating advanced AR technologies, top-notch graphics, and other advancements. No doubt, AR remains among the top technologies nowadays. It seems that AR could become a must-have in the future, but for now it’s still a competitive advantage. If you want to leverage it to the fullest, request a quote for professional integration services!
