The Curious Case Of Tablets In Gaming And Gambling

In the rollercoaster world of video gaming, consoles and PCs have long been the kings, reigning supreme with their flashy graphics and immersive experiences.

But then came the underdog: mobile gaming. Smartphones muscled their way into the arena, offering portability and impressive capabilities that won over a massive crowd.

Tablets, caught in the middle, have been like the middle child—noticed but often overlooked. They offer a blend of both worlds but haven’t quite hit the jackpot in terms of popularity.

The great device debate in online gambling

The online gambling scene mirrors this device drama. According to a revealing report by the UK Gambling Commission,[1] smartphones are the rockstars of online gambling. They’re everywhere, always ready to offer a quick spin or hand of cards, thanks to countless gambling apps.

Desktops are the steady sidekicks, providing a stable and immersive experience for those who prefer a larger screen. Tablets, meanwhile, are like the dependable but slightly dull friend who doesn’t get invited to all the parties.

Despite their larger screens and portability, they just haven’t captured the hearts of gamblers as much as their smaller and bigger siblings.

When it comes to online slot machines, device preferences show similar trends. Slot provider Play’n GO was one of the first casino software companies that realized the importance of a mobile-first focus.[2]

It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s always within arm’s reach. Desktops also get their fair share of action, especially for those who crave high-quality graphics and a more immersive exploration into the world of slots. Tablets?

They’re the awkward middle ground. They offer a bigger screen than a smartphone but aren’t as captivating as a desktop. They’re like that pair of pants that’s not quite jeans but not really sweats either—functional, but not your first choice.

Tablets – the wallflowers of gaming?

So why the cold shoulder for tablets? It’s a bit of a Goldilocks situation. Tablets are seen as neither small and handy like smartphones nor powerful and immersive like desktops. Statista’s forecast on tablet gamers by age hints at this lukewarm reception.[3]

There’s a user base in the 30-39 year old range, sure, but it’s not growing as fast as those for other devices. Gamers and gamblers alike seem to prefer the quick, on-the-go fix from their phones or the robust, sit-down experience from their computers. Tablets are the wallflowers at the tech party, noticed but not the life of the gathering.

Market moves and future fortunes

For developers and marketers in both gaming and gambling, understanding these device preferences is key. It’s clear that a mobile-first approach is vital, but don’t forget those loyal desktop users.

Tablets might need a bit more love and innovation to break into the spotlight. Targeting specific demographics or tweaking the user experience could help them find their niche.

Keeping an eye on these trends is crucial for staying ahead in the game. After all, in this digital age, today’s wallflower could be tomorrow’s star.

Sources:

Jim Miller

Jim’s passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.

Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”