The online gambling industry is expected to close 2024 at a value of $93.26 billion globally. Most estimated projections show bullishness, with some predicting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.46% between 2024 and 2029. Others have higher estimates, including one forecast of a $153.21 billion market cap by 2029, with a CAGR of 10.4%.
In addition to the market size, there are also several expected jumps in the industry’s overall stats. For instance, the number of users in the sector is expected to hit 291.4 million in 2029, with user penetration rising from 6.1% in 2024, to 7.6% in 2029.
By most estimations, the iGaming sector is expected to keep climbing in 2025, with more money in bets and more users in the industry. These stats may also be considerably aided by the industry’s expansion of transaction methods to include fiat payment channels and crypto options. Platforms like cashpot casino allow users to deposit and bet using Bitcoin (BTC) to enjoy a wide range of popular games, quick transactions, secure payments, and exciting bonuses like cashback offers. Combining crypto with popular fiat processing options like Visa and Mastercard provides a trusted user experience for new and existing players.
Gamblers who frequent online casinos are spread between mobile and desktop platforms. While some prefer to gamble using desktops, many others fall in the mobile category. Though they are both trusted options, it’s necessary to consider which one is likely to prevail in 2025 and why users might prefer one over the other.
Mobile iGaming
Convenience is a major reason online gambling has become very popular. Despite the increased ease of access with mobile and desktop options over a brick-and-mortar casino, the level of convenience varies between them. According to a report from Market Research Futures, the mobile gambling market is expected to rise by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.20%, from $74.5 billion in 2024 to $189.5 billion by 2032.
Technological advancements also favor mobile iGaming. Today, most modern smartphones already offer fast processors, 5G connectivity, and high-resolution screens that significantly heighten gambling gameplay and customer experience. These technological breakthroughs have also changed how people engage with iGaming platforms and have improved the gaming experience such that people can enjoy the same quality they would with dedicated gaming consoles.
Mobile-Exclusivity and App Integrations
Another factor in favor of mobile iGaming is the introduction of features exclusive to mobile devices. While desktop platforms can enjoy some of these, mobile users get the best of push notifications, in addition to app-only promotions that help keep players properly engaged. Mobile gamers benefit from real-time messages and alerts about tournaments, bonuses, and special events, ensuring that they do not miss lucrative opportunities as they enjoy gaming.
Furthermore, app integrations are considerably more versatile. Apps connect seamlessly with most payment systems and mobile wallets and support biometric authentication. Users can enjoy personalized recommendations, secure deposits and withdrawals, and one-click transactions to simplify payments. This helps to promote trust among users.
There are also social and integrated features to consider. Many mobile iGaming platforms offer users unmatched social interaction through several features, including share buttons connected to various social media platforms, referral programs that allow people to earn passive income for bringing more users to the platforms, and other features like live chat, which simplifies communication with fellow players.
The Tricky Side of Mobile iGaming
Mobile iGaming is a lot more popular than desktop gambling. However, there are several factors that challenge its viability.
Even though smartphone and tablet manufacturers are making larger products with bigger screens, mobile devices cannot match the experience and immersiveness accessible by desktop platforms. The smaller screens on these devices make it difficult for players to fully enjoy complex games or participate in high-stakes tournaments. In addition, the small screens leave much to be desired because details are not as prominent and visible, which reduces the overall visual impact and gambling experience. While mobile devices are expected to have larger screens and better resolutions in 2025, technological advancements are also expected to improve desktop options, making them the better option regarding visuals.
Furthermore, processing power is limited on mobile devices. Today, manufacturers use impressive chips and processors to ensure smooth usage and seamless gameplay for high-definition titles and live dealer games. However, these devices are still no match for desktop options. In 2025, the rise and continued adoption of cloud gaming could help to ease these limitations since the bulk of processing and computing will happen on the cloud. Nonetheless, online casinos offer several non-traditional and complex games that are resource-heavy and will run better on desktops.
Volatile Connectivity and Battery Limitations
Mobile iGaming may also suffer issues with internet connectivity. Mobile devices allow users to enjoy gambling on the go as long as there is some connection to the internet. However, this accessibility can pose challenges because of a reliance on cellular networks. High-quality mobile gambling requires fast and stable internet, which is sometimes unavailable in specific locations.
According to an Ericsson mobility report, 5G will cover 65% of the world’s population in 2025, and reach 2.6 billion people. This feat should significantly stabilize internet connectivity and contribute to seamless gaming for mobile players. However, desktop players using reliable wifi networks will likely maintain an edge.
Battery and heat generation in mobile devices are other drawbacks. Sometimes, gambling sessions can drain a device’s battery and cause overheating, causing players to suspend gameplay. Even if battery and heat technology significantly improve in 2025, these problems are typically alien to desktop players.
Why Choose Mobile iGaming in 2025?
In 2025, mobile gaming will continue to appeal to people who prioritize accessibility and convenience. It is great for casual players who want to get a few bets in while commuting, taking a break from work, or seeking a thrill. In addition, as mobile devices get better with technology, including processing power and visual quality, mobile iGaming will continue catering to users who value speed and accessibility.
Mobile iGaming will be more common among younger tech-savvy players who are used to mobile technology. Also, players can get a good start on iGaming with mobile platforms, making it easy for them to understand gaming rules and build strategies as they journey toward professional casino gameplay.
Desktop iGaming
Mobile casino gaming has enjoyed quite the attraction because of its convenience and efficiency. However, desktop gambling is still a firm contender in the online gambling industry because it retains a dedicated and loyal fan base who remain in the sector owing to several different factors.
Desktop devices provide stronger processing power, which supports ultra-high-definition graphics much higher than mobile devices can handle. Desktops also offer smoother refresh and frame rates with advanced animations that make them more visually attractive, allowing gamblers to enjoy deeply immersive casino experiences. In addition to graphics, people can build their own desktop setups with tailored gaming rigs that include the best processors and parts.
Higher Power, Better Visuals
Professional gamblers and players benefit from a desktop’s capacity to run multiple applications simultaneously. In addition to efficient game management, players can enjoy high-definition graphics, live stream their games, and join tournaments that require conversations and brainstorming in real time. In addition, desktop users can do all this while still following live odds and engaging with other players much better than mobile users can.
Furthermore, enjoying some iGaming experiences is better on desktop devices. Gamblers might prefer to use desktop devices when playing multi-table games, live tournaments, and live strategy games because navigation is easier on wide screens with customizable widgets. Additionally, a mouse and a keyboard may give desktop gamers an edge when precision-based gameplay is necessary.
Desktop Costs and Immobility Issues
Despite all of these perks, desktop iGaming players suffer a few drawbacks. The most obvious disadvantage is the absence of portability. While mobile iGaming can be done anywhere and at any time, desktop gaming requires players to remain at specific locations. Although it boasts more convenience than a land-based casino, desktop gambling limits players who want flexibility.
Another issue with high-quality desktop systems is the cost. In many cases, building or purchasing one requires a substantial investment that is generally inconvenient for the average gambler. In addition to the expense, desktop systems require dedicated physical spaces that may not be practical, especially for people who live in small apartments.
In 2025, there is no telling that the price of a desktop setup will decrease. This means that players may be forced to go mobile instead of purchasing expensive gear that offers little convenience.
Why Choose Desktop iGaming in 2025?
In 2025, desktop iGaming will likely remain the platform of choice for professionals and serious gamers who put performance and high-quality graphics atop their priority lists. Desktop iGaming will also remain common among players who like particularly complex games and those who engage in long gaming sessions. Furthermore, desktop platforms are better suited for specific technological advancements, including the integration of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR).
Factors That Could Determine the Preferred Option in 2025
- Ease of Online Payments: Digital payments add to the convenience that already attracts users to online platforms. The process of initiating and completing these payments is easy as there are several different options with simplified payment procedures over time. For instance, users can save debit or credit card details on the platforms and quickly authorize payments to enjoy gameplay. Another option is to connect to a third-party wallet like PayPal for quick fund transfers and deposits. In addition, crypto is a growing option for many online casinos because of its inherent transparency. Cryptocurrency payments are usually settled almost immediately and are permanently recorded on a blockchain network for easy auditing. Although present with both mobile and desktop iGaming, a combination of these factors could contribute to a significant increase in online gambling activity in 2025.
- Artificial Intelligence Integration: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has made a significant mark in most sectors over the last few years. Beyond chatbots and generative texts and images, AI can help with data analysis and pattern recognition. Developers are now adopting AI to provide users with better customer experience,
Pattern recognition driven by AI tools helps casino operators and developers create specific features that cater to the diverse needs of its users. These tools can also help develop tailor-made features with variations that present to users differently. This is possible by analyzing user gaming interests and preferences.
Online platforms can also use AI to improve security. Through data analysis, AI systems can detect irregularities in user behavior, including betting, withdrawal, deposit, or gameplay patterns that are significant deviations from the usual.
- User Demographics: Platform preferences are usually shaped by user demographics. For instance, younger and more tech-savvy audiences prefer mobile devices because they are portable and easy to use. Many young players also grew up using smartphones and tablets and are already familiar with these devices. On the other hand, experienced gamers and professionals might prefer desktops because of their customizable setup and superior graphics.
- Game Compatibility: A major driving factor will be the types of games available on each platform. Games like slots are easily played on mobile devices, guaranteeing their accessibility to mass audiences. For more intense games that may involve role-playing, multiple tables, or specially-designed environments, desktops are the better option.
- Monetization: iGaming models that support monetization might attract more players than alternatives. Mobile platforms make monetization easy as they support microtransactions that help to drive revenue. These microtransactions are easily processed via cryptocurrencies running on blockchain networks that support multiple small payments without draining computing power. Cryptocurrency transactions make up about 7% of all online gambling payments.
Conversely, desktop gamers may prefer large deposits and traditional transactions. Consequently, service providers who successfully combine both strategies will likely remain competitive in the continuously evolving iGaming industry.
- Regulatory Landscape: Changing regulatory standards usually impacts platform development and operations. Regions that tightly control or regulate iGaming can enforce compliance specifics required of one platform or the other. This could significantly affect how platforms attract or retain users and the nature of features released to players in those jurisdictions. Additionally, service providers planning expansion into specific markets must alter their offerings to comply with local regulations. These alterations may affect traction and determine whether mobile or desktop platforms are preferred.
- Economic Conditions: The economic conditions in a particular jurisdiction can affect the adoption of iGaming and influence the generally preferred choice. While desktop gaming may be more prevalent in regions with high economic stability where gamers can invest in expensive setups, mobile gaming will be more popular in emerging markets where affordable smartphones are popular and easily accessible. In addition to economic conditions, factors such as the state of the tech industry, consumer spending habits, and global inflation are also potent enough to make a difference.
Regional Insights for 2025
Studies suggest that online gambling in North America will outperform the industry in other regions. This is because the North American market enjoys increased digitization, in addition to mobile products that prioritize convenience, efficiency, and safety. This suggests that North America is the region most likely to dominate next year.
In 2022, the size of the North American market was $28.5 billion, with mobile gambling responsible for the growth. The Asia-Pacific market was the second-largest, with Europe in third place. However, research suggests that the market in Europe will be the second largest in the years leading up to 2032. Much of the expected pump in the European market comes from a long-standing sports history, which has birthed millions of sports enthusiasts and fans across the continent. This is more evident in the German market, which has the largest market share, and the UK market, which is the fastest growing. Globally, the Asia-Pacific mobile gambling market is expected to grow the fastest between 2024 and 2032, mostly due to the growth of the mobile market.
Conclusion
According to the State of Mobile Internet Connectivity Report 2024 published by the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA), there are 4.6 billion mobile internet subscribers globally in 2023, representing 57% of the world’s population. This number has increased every year, from the 33% recorded in 2015. Also, the GSMA reports that the coverage gap – people who live in areas not covered by mobile broadband networks – is 350 million, about 4%. GSMA’s data also revealed regional differences in connectivity, with most regions recording similar growth levels in mobile internet subscribers in 2022 and 2023. The exceptions were South Asia, which slowed, and East Asia & Pacific, which increased.
The data indicates that while most of the world has access to mobile devices, there are still differences in penetration between regions. This means that mobile iGaming in affected regions may not penetrate as much as others. However, while this is apparent, other factors like economic conditions may also come into play, securing mobile iGaming as the preferred method. Ultimately, both mobile and desktop iGaming will continue to expand on their advantages and appeal to gamblers drawn to their distinct advantages.
Last Updated on January 8, 2025
