More people than ever in the United States enjoy spending their spare time playing games from their mobile devices, which is helping fuel the significant revenue growth reported in the gaming industry.
Playing from a desktop computer, laptop, and dedicated handheld gaming device remains popular, but there has been a sharp rise in the number of those who prefer playing on the go from their smartphone.
Recent statistics also show us that over 40% of mobile gamers are willing to spend money playing their favourite digital entertainment content. Let’s dive in and take a closer look at why mobile gaming has become the platform of choice for online gamers in the US.
Why do so many people in the US now prefer playing games from a smartphone over any other device?
According to reports, the number one reason mobile gaming has become the platform of choice across the US is the convenience mobile devices offer. Many players find desktop computers and laptops too restrictive and find it much easier to play from their smartphones.
Playing from a mobile device means gamers can play from almost any location at any time of the day, provided their device has a stable Wi-Fi connection and plenty of battery life.
Thanks to modern technology, it’s possible to play a wide range of games that suit players of all ages and backgrounds on numerous trusted websites with excellent digital services and top-notch security. However, some of the games are not suitable for players aged under 21 or 18. Typically, these two age points are required by law, depending of course on where the player is resident.
Computer-generated and live dealer online slot machines, can be sourced at sweepstakes casinos (aka social casinos) and regular casino platforms. However, blackjack, roulette, poker, craps, baccarat, scratchcards, video, and other similar digital content are only suitable for players aged 21 or above, and several of today’s triple-A blockbuster video games are only suitable for players aged 18 or above (PEGI-18 rated).
Gaming on the go from a smartphone or tablet device has become so popular because people can stave off boredom whether they are stuck in a queue, travelling long distances, or have some spare time and want to relax and unwind playing their favourite titles.
How has technology played a significant role in mobile gaming growth?
Over the past five or so years, many technological developments have enabled mobile users to have a more seamless, engaging, and immersive experience from the palm of their hands.
The key innovations that are fuelling this entertainment sector are the following:
- Faster internet speeds (5G) have reduced latency issues, meaning mobile gamers have a smoother experience each time with zero lagging/buffering or disconnection issues
- More efficient web browsers have made playing games so much better
- Excellent cybersecurity measures have made mobile gaming sites safer and more secure. 128-bit SSL encryption and secure login features like 2FA make it almost impossible for cybercriminals to gain unauthorised access to mobile gaming accounts
- Today’s best mobile gaming apps offer a more complete and secure gaming experience and work well on almost every modern smartphone device (mainly iOS and Android smartphones/tablets)
- Payment processing gateways commonly accepted on today’s best mobile gaming sites are known for processing swifter and more secure payments and a broader range of payment options are now available to cater to all types of gamers
- Websites have become more user-friendly, stylish, sophisticated, and intuitive
- AI-powered tools used by operators can help make more relevant gaming suggestions
- Today’s smartphones are the best they have ever been, which massively enhances the mobile gaming experience
Additionally, the software providers who create today’s best mobile games are producing far better content thanks to computer programming and development software advancements.
The Dominance of Gaming on the Go
These days, with developers recognising the incredible potential of ‘casual’ gaming options that don’t require gamers to devote 2+ hours of uninterrupted time (something many of us don’t have), there are so many great gaming formats that are easy to enjoy on the go. For instance, social casino gaming sites with free downloadable mobile apps that can be accessed from any modern Wi-Fi-connected Windows, Android or iOS device typically offer hundreds of feature-rich online slot machines, table & card games, lotto-style games, and so much more. It’s a popular option for travellers and frequent flyers, since you can get immersed without needing any additional hardware other than your phone.
However, there are equally as many non-casino-related card game apps that travellers might like to try. The top games to consider are Hearts, Solitaire, Go Fish, and Uno, to name a few.
Let’s not forget exercise. While travelling, it’s important to stay in top shape, and one of the easiest and most effective ways to do help you with your daily routine is to add a popular exercise app to your preferred mobile device.
There are hundreds of mobile apps for almost every physical exercise activity today. However, you might not need one, especially if you go on a thrill-seeking holiday.
You will get all the exercise you need if you take, for example, a skiing or snowboarding holiday or go to a sunny and warm place where you will be swimming or running daily.
Is it safe to play at online casinos from a mobile device in 2024?
Yes, provided the site you decide to join is controlled by a reputable operator with good standing in the iGaming industry and that it’s fully licensed/regulated by a trusted online casino gaming commission/licensing authority.
Today’s most trusted mobile casino operators also offer a range of safer gambling tools in their responsible gambling section, meaning players never have to worry about exceeding any budgets they set.
In other words, useful tools like daily, weekly and monthly deposit limits help players stay in much better control of their bankroll, giving them longer to play their favourite mobile games. Session time reminders and win/loss limit tools are also available.
Final thoughts
Smartphones, tablets, better security, faster internet/Wi-Fi speeds, better devices, more engaging content, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and many other technological innovations will continue to attract more people to play games on their mobile devices rather than from any other device.
Over the coming years, experts predict the mobile gaming sector in the US will continue to grow and generate billions of dollars in revenue each year as more people continue to switch to using their mobile phones to play their favourite games.
Before signing up to any website to play your favourite games, always conduct your own basic research to determine if the site is safe. One of the easiest ways players do this is by reading the expert reviews.