The Impact of Technology on Online Poker: What’s Next?

November 25, 2024 by Staff

Since the very first digital poker operators came online in the mid-1990s, technology has improved the game. Early forms of play were popular, but they are considered to be seriously primitive compared to their modern counterparts.

Those improvements are necessary in order to keep existing players engaged while encouraging new customers to get involved. It’s been a long path, but it’s certain that technology will continue to develop so that the experience is even more enjoyable.

The Journey

Early poker games were played with automated software, which was typical of the early days of the Internet. It’s still possible to play this way, and many players prefer it, as virtual gameplay doesn’t carry the same distractions as a live casino room.

Sound and graphics have improved, so that the cards and table appear more realistic. For those who want to boost that level of realism, the introduction of live poker tables is another valuable introduction to online poker platforms.

Throughout the history of online poker play, operators have had to ensure safety and fair play. Over the years, cybersecurity has improved significantly in order to keep players’ sensitive details away from unwanted attention.

Random Number Generators ensure that each turn of the card is fair and unpredictable. These are key technology elements that have been in place since the start of online poker portals.

Expanding Choice

Online poker outlets had the basics in place. They published rules and rankings of each hand so that beginners could get involved, but they now needed to expand further. One of the ways in which they did this was by publishing new versions. Poker is a complex game, and one where there are many different variants. Along with Texas Hold ‘Em which is the most popular, other versions such as Omaha and Caribbean Stud were introduced.

Games developers then went a stage further by developing titles that offered a twist to the classic rules. There could be additional multipliers added or boosted odds for landing a pair. Some software producers have even published completely new variants and there is one game where the pot is won by the player with the worst hand.

Mobile play is another area where online poker has developed significantly. The freedom to play on a mobile device, anywhere where there is a sound connection, has increased customer bases across the platforms.

It’s fascinating to look back on the journey of online poker, but what’s next for the industry?

Change Your Reality

Like many sectors, online casinos are busy exploring the possibilities of virtual reality and augmented reality. There are some games that already incorporate the two technologies, but there remains some seriously untapped potential.

There are similarities between the two, along with some key differences: Virtual reality is an entirely simulated world where players use equipment to immerse themselves. With AR, there are augmentations to your existing reality. So, in this example, AR may add a poker table to your current surroundings.

VR also requires a headset, while augmented reality can be accessed via your smartphone.

Both have the potential to enhance the realism element of online poker play. Players can be transported directly to the table where they take their place in the game. These technologies can also include additional opponents, instead of the classic online scenario of player versus dealer.

Games involving both VR and AR should start to become a trend from 2025 onwards.

The Social Scene

In recent years, casino operators have worked hard to improve the social side of play. Many have chatrooms where players can discuss their gaming experiences while talking about any element of their daily lives from pets through to the weather.

This phenomenon has been boosted by the arrival of social casinos. These are free-to-play platforms where customers use virtual coins. While there is the option to add funds and win cash prizes, the element is on free and fun casino play.

Social interaction tends to increase on these platforms, and it’s something that is likely to gain momentum across all casinos. Real money operators may use technology to develop their existing social scene, and those that don’t have chatrooms will consider bringing them in.

We may also see technology used to lift the number of free games that are available across all platforms. If implementing these free options attracts a larger customer base, casino operators will surely consider it.

Like all game providers, online poker operators know that they have to keep developing in order to retain and build custom. This is a highly competitive industry and one where new companies come online on a regular basis.

Harnessing new technologies is one way in which those operators can stay ahead of the competition. Each will potentially have access to new developments such as virtual reality and augmented reality, but there will be a race to see who can use it first.

Ultimately, the customer benefits as new technology enhances the playing experience, just as it’s done since poker games first came online.