Over the past few years, the online gambling market has continued to grow at a steady rate. From online sportsbooks becoming increasingly prominent to more states legalizing sports wagering, there’s no saying what online gambling and sports betting in 2022 will look like for the United States.
Based on past years and current trends in the global market, there are three predictions for online gambling and sports betting in 2022 that can soon become a reality.
More States Will Pass Sports Betting Laws
With more than 30 states legalizing regulated sports betting so far, it’s not a stretch to say that additional states may continue introducing sports betting laws in 2022. This past year, states like California and Florida continued to increase mobile sports-betting-related activities after legalizing sports betting.
As states continue to establish a presence in the sports betting arena, competition between states may grow. Just in October, New Jersey Sportsbook shattered records. With this sudden increase, states such as Pennsylvania and Indiana may try to close the gap.
Virtual and Augmented Reality Rises in Popularity
Even while the COVID-19 pandemic led to the sports industry seeing shortened seasons and canceled games, online sports betting sites — such as sportsbooks — continued to grow in popularity. Additionally, this is when we began to see the rise of virtual and augmented reality. As a result, we may see AR and VR become more prominent with online gambling and sports betting in 2022.
As more and more online casinos and sportsbooks continue to appear, the gambling industry will continue to push the envelope. Retail sportsbooks have already begun to grow in quality, such as with increased speed and improved graphics. One other way sportsbooks and casinos may try to stand out is by becoming more interactive. Some casinos have already started offering VR technology, and VR offerings — such as live interactions and gesture imitation — could make betting sites start to feel like brick-and-mortar casinos.
The Gamification of Sports
In the past two years, the sports industry has seen a decline in viewership, especially when it comes to younger viewers. As a result, the sports industry may try to find ways to use the online wagering market to increase viewership. With an increase in sportsbooks and online gambling, the sports industry could continue to add more game-like qualities to sports in the coming year.
Already, online betting has led to an increase in the gamification of sports. With sportsbooks and other online gambling apps, fantasy sports bettors may feel like more active participants when it comes to their favorite sports. Since eSports betting has grown exponentially, sports franchises may try to copy some of the practices of the online gaming industry.
A Surefire Win: Reach Out to 800-GAMBLER for Help
While online gambling and sports betting in 2022 is expected to reach new heights, problem gamblers may find themselves with quicker access to online sports betting than ever before.
If you or a loved one are seeking help for problem gambling, we are here to support you. Our helpline is completely anonymous and is available 24/7 to offer help for gamblers who want to start a path to recovery.