iGaming: niche trends for 2024

As the iGaming industry continues to evolve, 2024 is poised to be a year of significant innovation driven by emerging technologies and changing regulatory landscapes. Among the most critical trends will be the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, which promise to revolutionize user experiences and enhance security measures. These advancements, however, come with the need for responsible engagement, underscoring the importance of adhering to safe gambling practices. As iGaming platforms embrace AI for personalized experiences, real-time data analysis, and fraud prevention, the industry must also ensure that these tools support a balanced and responsible gaming environment.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning

In 2023, neural networks are very much on the rise: you could say that this year "generative AI" sounded from every iron. If at the beginning of the year, few people heard about GPT or Midjourney, now we have not only heard but also used this AI, at least in test mode, for writing texts or creating creatives.

In iGaming, AI and machine learning can help not only in design and marketing, but also in improving user experience. Neural networks can be used to monitor user actions, strengthen profile and personal data security. Most importantly, artificial intelligence helps to make iGaming products more personalized. Thus, the main goal of AI in iGaming will be to meet the needs of users.

What does AI have to offer?

Collecting statistics and analyzing user data (in real-time)
Segmentation of users by different attributes
Personalized iGaming recommendations based on user data (choice of sport, slot)
Fixation of non-standard behavior, which indicates deception and cheating
Registration of decreased activity and possible departure of a person from the platform
Selection of bonuses and promotions that will interest customers on the verge of account deletion (like the previous point, will help in the work of the retention department)
Help in the design of the games themselves

AI-based tools

Chatbots and virtual assistants are already like the norm for us, although they spread en masse just in 2023. They are actively used in online stores.

What are such assistants good for?

Always on call, ready to answer any question 24/7
Able to take on the load with the most frequent questions: tell about the rules of the game, suggest which option to choose, where to click, how to edit the profile, etc.
They record suspicious user activity and promptly block fraudsters
They take on the responsibility of verifying the validity of registration data (verification).
They can collect and analyze feedback from users, what they like and what they don't like in order to suggest improvements for the platform/game.

Blockchain from crypto in iGaming

Artificial intelligence and machine learning will continue to be actively used in iGaming, its share in the niche will reach almost 80%. And in second place in popularity will be blockchain mechanisms --- it will be used in 13% in gambling and betting.

For the most part, we are talking about using cryptocurrency for various operations, for example, withdrawal of funds or vice versa to replenish the balance of the profile. However, blockchain can also be used to protect personal data and security during payments.

Gamification of gameplay

Gamification of funnels will continue to be actively used in gambling and betting. Traditionally, this manifests itself in different mechanics of user engagement, for example, rewards and bonuses for some achievements on the platform.

What else could it be?

A board of the best players: competition between users motivates to invest more effort and money (you can mix several tournaments between players and then determine one winner in several categories);
Storytelling that better immerses you in the world of the game;
Playing until a specific goal is reached when it is easier for the player to enjoy small personal victories (compared to an inter-player tournament).