Introduction
The online gambling market is sizeable, and expanding significantly every year.
In 2024, it was valued at $95.5 million.
Many segments of iGaming contribute to this number. Some of them are poker, online casinos, online slots and lotteries and so on. Much like most other entertainment industries, as gambling evolved, players have gone from only playing in brick and mortar setups, to taking their gambling behaviour online.
Players engage in such activities from the comfort of their homes, through various devices.
Some prefer to gamble strictly through desktops, some are engaged through mobile devices, and others rely on tablets and similar devices to bet and gamble online.
The direction the industry now seems headed towards is app-inclined, mobile-led and highly digital. Let’s understand what gambling through mobile means, how it works and why users are engaging in it more and more.
What is Mobile Gambling?
Any game of skill or chance, played on a smartphone or mobile device, for the purpose of winning real money can be said to be mobile gambling.
Mobile-based gambling doesn’t need to be an elaborate or digitally savvy enterprise, where a technologically-heavy interface is erected for the sole purpose of getting users to engage. This type of online gambling behaviour can be quite simple in nature.
For instance, using the messaging application on your mobile phone or a messaging app such as telegram or whatsapp, users can be part of betting groups where they place their bets. This is also commonly referred to as text betting.
In fact, USSD (unstructured supplementary service data) allows individuals to connect with server providers by dialing simple codes like *124# on their device. Users can keep interacting with the menu to place their bets, select options and continue to go back to the main menu.
The fact that this activity is enabled through mobile devices makes it part of the mobile gambling market.
Desktop vs Mobile Gambling Market
What Makes Desktop GamePlay Attractive?
The traditional method of gambling online was through the desktop alone.
When the dot com revolution happened, gamblers no longer needed to physically go into casinos or gambling dens to play their hand. Now, the game came to them through monitors within their homes.
This also meant, games could be played at any time as per the player’s convenience.
Screens have evolved to be much more pixel heavy, displaying incredible graphics that presently provide a highly immersive experience.
Very heavy games can be loaded through connection to fast internet, and played via AR, VR or even as is. It’s also much easier to get involved in massively multiplayer online games that involve live chats, and interaction for an improved playing experience.
Why is Mobile Gambling on the Rise?
Mobiles, on the other hand, are preferred for one major factor alone: accessibility.
You’re at home, at work, at leisure, in the park, on the subway, in a cafe or walking on the sidewalk on the way to any of these activities — the device in the palm of your hand enables you to participate in mobile gambling anywhere.
The non-restrictive nature of the mobile gambling market makes it a tempting proposition for both casual and serious iGamers. It allows for engagement without heavy investment in location, device, time or energy.
Even better — turn on your notifications and get instant alerts on your stakes.
Winning? Losing? Winning and then losing, or losing and then winning — learn about how your bet or game deposit is performing all the time. Players can also learn about new games, leaderboard stats and more through such push notification alerts on their mobile phones.
The Downsides of Gambling on Your Phone
One of the most prominent points of concern is the lack of immersion.
The graphics on a small screen can never be as vibrant, captivating or appealing as those visible on a big screen, i.e. a desktop device.
Another problem with using a mobile device for gambling is that the play time can be easily disrupted. Notifications for other apps, calls, text messages and other kinds of interruptions are never very far away.
Finally, the limited battery life of most mobile phones is often a concern. For most active members of the mobile gambling market, regular usage itself is quite draining on the device. Add to that the rich media filled gambling apps, and it is a recipe for disaster.
The battery drain can be aggressive and lead to poor performance of the phone, overall.
However, despite these common issues with the usage of smartphones for online casino and iGames, it is likely to be the most preferred format for two kinds of players:
- Users who have a strict budget for indulging in these activities, and
- Casual games who are infrequent in their gambling behaviour.
Global Mobile Gambling Market Size
Most research organizations place the compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) for the mobile-based online gambling industry at between 10.7% to 11.2%.
From about $84.9 billion in 2023 it is estimated to cross $170 billion by 2030.
This in itself is an incredible rate of growth for such a nascent medium of entertainment. Most of the projections hinge on factors such as improvements in UI/UX, cheaper internet, faster internet speeds, better mobile phone penetration and so on to account for the growing entry of users into this market.
Asian Mobile Gambling Market
The gambling market in Asia-Pacific is expected to mushroom to $56 billion by 2033 from the current market value of $23 billion in 2024.
One of the major factors behind this growth projection is the changes in the regulatory landscape and the increasing access to cheaper, yet higher quality smartphones in the region. With greater phone usage metrics, the volume of regular mobile-only gamblers is also due to rise over time.
Countries like India and China are leading in this area.
Social factors too are responsible for the booming mobile gambling market. Economic migration and the growing amounts of isolation most individuals are dealing with in the current scenario are critical factors in pushing more players towards gambling apps and websites. Many times these outlets act more like social gaming arenas, giving people a common platform to connect and engage on.
Technological inputs and innovation are also leading in these regions. AR and VR gambling as well as AI-based immersive virtual gaming are becoming increasingly cost effective. As this continues, iGaming operators and brands are likely to see even more new users entering the market.
European Mobile Gambling Market
In the case of Europe, smartphones were already being used extensively many years ago. In 2023, 80% Europeans were already owners of at least one such device.
Yet, the mobile-based gambling segment, which was valued at €52.25 billion in 2024 is due for tremendous growth in the upcoming years. Some expect it to increase to €133.66 billion by 2033, which reflects a CAGR of 11%.
Better specs, top-notch graphics and smooth navigability on easily available smartphone apps is bringing more players to the table.
In this mobile gambling market, the role of consumer preferences in adding to business cannot be understated. A better quality of user experience is causing growth in the number of players across the board.
However, a growing trend in this segment is cause for concern. More and more younger users are showing up on gambling platforms and engaging in behaviours which are likely to jeopardize their futures.
As a result, gambling regulations are tightening up in these markets to ensure harm reduction and more accountability for businesses.
Another problem in Europe is the fractured way in which regulations are framed. Since there is no overarching body making rules for the entire region, mobile-based gambling businesses are required to follow rules and licensing requirements for the various countries in which they want to operate.
Since many of the countries in Europe are small in size and target audience, regulatory compliance for iGaming brands and operators who want to launch their operations in each jurisdiction, can be quite cumbersome.
North American Mobile Gambling Market
Compared to the European and Asian markets, the North American one is still in a nascent stage.
In terms of revenue alone, it stood at $13.36 billion in 2024 and is expected to expand to 27.49 billion by 2029, which is roughly a CAGR of over 12%. While in terms of growth, the percentage of increase is similar in all markets, the existing adoption of gambling through mobile devices is yet to be taken on in the same fashion in America.
Of course, of this revenue share, the USA holds the highest percentage.
One of the main contributing factors to growth is the regulatory turnaround in the USA. Sports betting is legal in only 38 states in 2025 but this number is expected to go up very soon.
Another reason behind the change in participation is innovation in secure gaming, which includes payment systems and data security. Privacy is one of the biggest concerns for most North Americans.
Canada and Mexico, however, have developed gambling industries, including mobile gambling markets. The areas of concern there include gambling addiction and financially stressful behaviours. Regulations in these countries are more focused on countering harmful activities that can affect citizens negatively.
Middle East and Africa Mobile Gambling Market
The Middle East and Africa (MEA) mobile gambling market is experiencing rapid growth.
In general, the online gambling revenue growth rate in the MEA region is expected to be 8.4% from 2025 to 2030. That signals the online gambling industry could go to over $2 billion by 2030 in the Middle East and Africa region alone.
The mobile gambling market is the fastest growing segment in this industry.
What’s affecting these changes? As with all the other geos, expanding smartphone usage and internet coverage is leading to more users joining the online casino and gambling space. However, it must be noted that this growth can be largely attributed to Africa alone.
In the Middle East, social and regulational reasons lead to poorer adoption. Yet, certain events have caused some spikes. One such instance is the launching of a national lottery in Dubai.
Another factor that is contributing to more players is cultural shifts and localization. In Africa, particularly, a lot of new users can be traced back to businesses adopting culturally and socially accepted forms of gambling and casino play.
Reasons Behind Mobile Gambling Market Growth
Smartphone Penetration
The worldwide increase in smartphone ownership is reshaping the digital entertainment landscape — especially mobile gambling. As of 2024, global smartphone users exceeded 6.8 billion, driven by the widespread availability of affordable mobile devices and expanding high-speed internet infrastructure.
The shift is evident. The gambling market has left the traditional holds of hidden casinos and secretive gambling dens and entered directly into the palms of users around the world.
Since players no longer need to rely on physically stagnant computers and desktops to participate in online gambling, the amount of activity, number of active player hours spent and even amount spent on gambling itself has increased.
Mobile devices also offer great flexibility. That’s one of the big reasons for the exponential expansion of the mobile gambling market.
For example, mobile betting in the U.S. represents over 80% of total sports betting revenue — a trend mirrored in Europe and parts of Asia.
Technology is enhancing this growth even further.
The availability of smoother gameplay has made high-quality graphics and live dealer games more viable on mobile. At the same time, the integration of secure mobile payment methods, such as e-wallets, mobile banking, and crypto wallets, has made transactions seamless and trustworthy for users.
Furthermore, in several developing countries in Latin America and Asia, a mobile device can often be the primary medium of connecting to the internet. As gambling laws evolve in these areas, mobile-first platforms are primed to dominate if they play their cards right.
In Africa, for instance, countries like Nigeria and Kenya are witnessing rapid mobile gambling adoption due to widespread smartphone use and targeted local content from online gambling businesses.
5G Technology
The quality of the internet often determines the quality of entertainment someone can experience through their device.
The online gambling industry, especially the mobile gambling market is one of the main beneficiaries of the expanding, high-quality 5G internet service. Here’s the math behind it: with speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G and latency reduced to milliseconds, 5G is making mobile gambling smoother, more immersive, and more accessible than ever.
Real-time gaming has changed the game completely. From a significant time lag and poor visual appeal to now zero lag and superior graphics, it has come a long way.
In iGaming too, live dealer games, multiplayer games and even in-play betting requires quick internet and minimum load time. On slower networks, delays in loading can lead to significant financial loss and a highly annoying gameplay experience.
With 5G, delays are virtually eliminated, ensuring high-definition video streams and instant game responses — even during peak traffic times.
The intensity of graphics in a game as well as the size of gaming apps, especially casino apps has transformed dramatically. What was previously limited to desktop-only — such as interactive or immersive AR and VR gaming — is now possible even on mid-range smartphones.
Unmatched Connectivity
Another key benefit of 5G is improved connectivity in crowded or previously under-served areas.
Whether players are commuting, attending an event, or living in hard-to-reach remote areas, 5G ensures stable and fast access to mobile gambling platforms. This expanded accessibility helps operators tap into new user segments that were difficult to reach with older infrastructure.
Mobile and 5G accessibility has also meant more people are using quick payment methods like e-wallets and pay later models to experience more of the world. This enables users to quickly add cash and withdraw deposits without much of a hassle. This is another contributing factor to the revenue boost in the mobile gambling market.
As telecom infrastructure improves globally, more regions will follow suit, leading to even greater adoption.
Monetization Models
The adoption of mobile gambling across the world not only hinges on improved experiences or offerings alone. Instead, the monetization models adopted by businesses have been a key source of growth as well.
The choice of monetization model often depends on local regulations, user behavior, and platform goals. Here are some of the major ones:
Real Money Gaming
Users deposit real money to participate in betting, casino games, poker, or lotteries. Operators earn revenue through a house edge, rake, or commissions on winnings.
This format is part of the regulated gaming industry and is the primary driver for mobile gambling market revenue growth in most countries. However, indulgence rates are the highest in mature markets like western Europe.
In-App Purchases
In markets with stricter gambling regulations, many platforms adopt a freemium model. Users can play for free, but are offered in-app purchases for virtual currency, extra spins, or enhanced features.
This model is popular in social casino games and appeals to users who want a gambling experience without financial risk.
Subscription-based Access
This format provides access to exclusive games, faster withdrawals, or enhanced customer support through a monthly or quarterly subscription plan for users.
For online gambling organizations, it secures a regular source of revenue and usership, in effect allowing for loyalty to be built over time.
Free with Ad Placement
Some apps monetize through ad placements such as interstitials, banners, or rewarded video ads.
Additionally, brands may also sponsor in-game content or tournaments, particularly in sports betting apps.
Since the games hosted on such platforms are usually free or part of a social gaming setup, the advertising supports the revenue generation aspect for the app or website.
Ease of Use or Accessibility
New doors to expansion have opened through the use of mobile for online gambling. Casual users turn into active participants because all the activity can now happen on-the-go.
In fact, the mobile gambling market is not an outlier. It is the default zone for engagement for several across the world.
Everyone is on Mobile
The universalisation of the smartphones has led to the evolution of the entire entertainment ecosystem. Made-for-mobile formats are found across video-based, text-based and voice-based entertainment platforms. Even OTT is now occasionally created for a vertical video format, available only on smartphones.
Their affordability, portability, and ease of use make them ideal for on-the-go entertainment, including gambling. As a result, even users in remote or underserved regions can now access betting and online gambling platforms, casinos, lotteries, and poker apps from their pockets.
To become connected with the rest of the world, all you need is a stable and reliable internet connection. You don’t even need to have the most feature-heavy phone or a high-end graphic card or any other bells and whistles.
In fact, in certain cases even that eligibility can be bypassed. Lightweight apps and offline features make even the requirement for regular internet supply a thing of the past.
Cross-Platform Play
Another aspect is the ability to switch devices at will.
While some users will only play on mobile, several others would engage with iGaming websites and apps even on their desktop devices or tablets.
When such a compatibility is offered by operators and brands, users can start a game on their phone, switch to a tablet, and pick up where they left off.
Inclusive App Features
The apps available in the mobile gambling market accommodate all kinds of users.
This means, even those who are not familiar with app navigation can easily use online gambling apps to their advantage.
Support accessibility features like voice commands, adjustable text, and simplified navigation are offered to make the experience more enjoyable, and less stressful. It even allows for players from older age groups to find their way around gameplay without assistance from anyone else.
Social Gaming and Fantasy Sports
Players Love Gaming Socially
There is a new kind of community experience being created through social gaming and fantasy sports. A blend of entertainment, competition and engagement is taking shape to give casual and novice users a different perspective altogether.
While not always tied to real-money betting, these formats are drawing massive engagement and helping onboard users into broader gambling ecosystems.
Social casino games like virtual poker, blackjack and slots mimic the regular online gambling experience, but with one very big difference — there is no real money involved.
Using virtual currency, users can play for free, purchase chips or tokens, and compete with friends or online communities. The winnings cannot be cashed out, obviously, but the thrill of the experience still exists through features like leaderboards, in-app chatting and gifting.
These games are particularly popular in regions where real-money gambling is restricted, serving as an alternative entry point for curious or casual players.
Why are Users Drawn to Fantasy Gaming?
With fantasy sports, on the other hand, you see a blend of knowledge, strategy and skill combined with real world data driving the entire experience.
How does it work? Users create virtual teams based on actual athletes and earn points based on their performance. Platforms like DraftKings, Dream11, and FanDuel have transformed fantasy sports into a billion-dollar segment of the mobile gambling market.
There’s a legal loophole in certain jurisdictions for this as well. Fantasy sports get treated as ‘games of skill’, rather than games of chance, and thus, are legalized.
Both of these entertainment types bring users to the online gambling market for one major reason: they are high engagement activities.
They offer competitive gameplay, social interaction, and a sense of progression—all of which keep users active over long periods. In fact, mobile-based gameplay pronounces this effect by enabling real-time updates, push notifications, and in-game events that drive daily usage.
The barrier to entry is also the lowest in them. Anyone can play, literally.
Since it doesn’t cost any money to engage in, it allows for players to spend more time on social gaming and fantasy sports apps without the fear of losing out in any way.
How to Capitalize on the Ballooning Mobile Gambling Market?
All the factors stated above show that mobile-device based gambling is primed for more usership, and great growth opportunities for emerging iGaming businesses. But the question remains, how can an existing player or a new business take advantage of this opportunity?
Here are some effective ways in which the boom can be maximized by operators and brands:
Look into a Mobile-first Strategy
To compete in today’s landscape, gambling businesses must design their platforms with mobile as the core experience.
However, if that is not feasible for your business model, a mobile-based experience should be offered together with the desktop experience.
Make sure your offering includes responsive web design, fast-loading apps, and user interfaces tailored for smaller screens. In addition, your apps should support touch-friendly navigation, biometric login, and one-click transactions.
Bank on giving players a seamless experience.
Offer Localization and Customization
Global expansion offers big rewards, but it also requires adaptation. Operators of online casino businesses should localize content, payment options, and language for each market.
For instance, supporting region-specific payment systems like UPI in India or PIX in Brazil can significantly boost conversions.
Culturally relevant promotions, sports leagues, and themes further enhance engagement.
Keep a Check on Compliance
Although regularly checking up on changing rules and regulations across relevant geographies can be a bit of a task, it is critical to maintaining your business.
The easiest way to manage all your compliance requirements is to get third-party support. Make use of KYC and AML tools from trusted providers and regularly check the licensing norms for online gambling businesses like yours.
Ensure you stay on top of crucial legal requirements, especially since violating them can cost you in the form of penalties and license cancellation.
Use Technology to Stand Out
In a crowded mobile gambling market, one of the best ways to get users to notice you is by incorporating unique features. Identify and incorporate emerging technological game enhancers such as:
- Live betting and streaming: Offering real-time sports and casino experiences.
- AI and analytics: Personalizing offers and improving risk management.
- AR/VR: Creating immersive casino environments.
- Blockchain & crypto: Providing faster, borderless transactions with added transparency.
Focus on Retention
Everyone emphasises on awareness, brand building and user acquisition.
But once the user arrives, are you putting in enough effort to ensure they stick around?
That is the trick to growing — and growing quickly —- in quickly expanding markets such as this one. Player retention allows you to build a loyal customer base that regularly produces revenue for your business.
When users keep returning on their own, a steady stream of revenue is generated, without any spend. This type of usership is critical for the growth of your mobile gambling startup.
Integrate a loyalty program, retention bonus and gamification structure within your app to keep players engaged and returning.
Set Up an Adjacent Business
Most up and coming gambling business owners prefer to invest in a real money gambling organization because of the common belief that only this form of business brings in cash.
But that is not the case.
Whether your online gambling business plan relies on social gaming or fantasy leagues or any other kind of allied field, it can become a profit making venture if the right revenue model or monetization model is applied.
This is even more true for geographies where gambling restrictions are heavy. Applying an alternate business model will help you acquire even more users and keep them coming back, without the fallout that accompanies real money gambling.
And if you’re very keen, you can adopt the traditional model too, once user acquisition is at a mature stage and you have the complete know-how of running a successful venture in the iGaming industry.
Summing Up
The mobile gambling market is on the path to become a behemoth, bringing in over $170 billion in revenue by the end of this decade.
Fueled by cheap internet access, better connectivity and 5G speeds, optimized monetization models, social gaming features and more, it is changing the face of online gambling very quickly. From the casual player enjoying social games to the high-stakes bettor using real-money platforms, mobile devices have democratized access and redefined how, when, and where gambling happens.
The success of operators and brands hinges on more than simple presence in the market. It is a unique opportunity, waiting to be capitalized through a mobile-first approach, intuitive UI/UX, localization, innovative features and so on.
Only first movers with evolved monetization, smart user retention strategies and a future-ready approach will win.
The future is definitely mobile. The important question here is, is your iGaming venture mobile-ready?
