The Rise of the iGaming Industry and Why It Is Happening Now
Sept. 8 2025, Published 1:45 a.m. ET
What used to be a niche hobby is now a global market expected to hit over $137 billion by 2028, according to a recent forecast from Statista. The iGaming industry—covering online casinos, poker, sports betting, and lotteries—is seeing massive growth. Not because of luck or flashy marketing, but because several forces have aligned at just the right time. Regulatory changes, tech evolution, and shifts in digital consumer behavior are pushing iGaming to the front of the global entertainment sector.
This rise didn’t come out of nowhere. It's been brewing for years. But now, it's accelerating.
Technology Became Accessible to Everyone
Until recently, not everyone had access to stable mobile internet or a smartphone fast enough to run real-money games. That’s changed. In 2024, over 92% of the global population owned a smartphone with at least 4G connectivity, as reported by Gartner. Combine that with better payment gateways, encrypted browsing, and seamless user interfaces, and the barrier to entry for digital gambling has almost disappeared.
App-based iGaming has made the user experience more fluid. No more clunky websites or delayed transactions. Players can now spin a reel or place a bet while commuting or waiting for coffee. This kind of convenience wasn’t possible at scale just a few years ago.
One of the fastest-growing entry points? Online slots. They're easy to understand, fast-paced, and often designed with flashy graphics to replicate the feeling of real casino floors. A newer trend within this space is the popularity of low-entry platforms such as the 1 dollar deposit casino, which allows new players to test the waters without a high initial commitment. These platforms remove the financial friction that used to keep casual users away.
Regulation Got Smarter (and Clearer)
For years, iGaming faced regulatory limbo in many regions. Now, countries are stepping up with clear laws and frameworks that give operators legitimacy and users peace of mind.
Take Brazil. In 2025, it's implementing one of the most comprehensive online gambling regulations in Latin America. The move has already attracted foreign investments and licensing applications from global brands. Meanwhile, several U.S. states have legalized online sports betting and poker, turning what used to be a legal gray zone into a fully regulated business.
This shift matters. Players feel safer when there’s transparency. Operators benefit from consistent rules and licensing procedures. According to a Gartner compliance trend report, legal clarity is one of the top three catalysts for growth in online services, including iGaming.
Consumer Habits Shifted After the Pandemic
The 2020 pandemic altered how people entertain themselves. With lockdowns and closed physical casinos, users turned to digital formats for everything—from work to relaxation. Even now, with most things back to normal, many users have stuck to their new digital routines.
In the case of iGaming, this meant a sharp increase in demand for platforms that felt social, immersive, and rewarding. Poker rooms with live chat, live dealer games, and sportsbook betting apps gained traction quickly.
Here’s what changed:
- People got used to instant digital gratification.
- Online communities grew around shared betting interests.
- Gamified experiences replaced passive entertainment.
All of this played directly into iGaming’s strengths.
AI and Automation Are Shaping the Experience
Artificial intelligence is playing a quiet but transformative role in countless industries. Not in a flashy, science-fiction way—but in backend systems, customer service, fraud detection, and personalized promotions.
Many iGaming platforms now use AI to:
- Flag unusual betting patterns that could indicate fraud.
- Recommend games based on user behavior.
- Provide instant customer support through AI-powered chat agents.
Gartner's AI in Gaming Systems report revealed that 67% of online platforms now rely on AI-driven automation for day-to-day operations. This doesn’t just reduce overhead—it sharpens the user experience and helps retain players.
Payment Flexibility and Crypto Integration
Financial flexibility has always been a make-or-break factor for digital platforms. The iGaming sector learned that fast. Today, platforms offer more than just credit card or PayPal options.
The inclusion of crypto has been a game-changer. Many iGaming operators now accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, or even stablecoins like USDT. This gives players anonymity, lower transaction fees, and instant transfers.
There are also local payment solutions for specific regions—like M-Pesa in Kenya or PIX in Brazil—that help users from different financial ecosystems access the same platforms without delay.
A 2024 Gartner Digital Payments Forecast noted that over 45% of all online gambling platforms now accept at least one cryptocurrency, up from just 11% five years ago.
The Role of Content and Community
Gamers, bettors, and casual users are no longer just logging in to win or lose money. They're engaging with content, watching livestreams of casino gameplay, and joining Discord groups to talk strategy or share promo codes.
The industry is shifting toward community-first models. Operators now embed streamers into platforms or partner with influencers to humanize their games and build loyal audiences.
This isn’t accidental. It’s a strategic pivot. The more time users spend on a platform—even when not actively betting—the more likely they are to return.
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So Why Now?
Because all the necessary pieces are finally on the table:
- High-speed mobile internet and powerful smartphones
- Clear regulation and government licensing
- Trusted payment systems, including crypto
- AI-powered platforms offering better UX
- Strong user habits post-pandemic
- Community-driven growth models
Individually, each factor mattered. Together, they’ve created the perfect storm for iGaming to evolve from a niche market into a mainstream force in global entertainment.
And it’s only going to grow from here.
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. Gamble or play responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call 1-800-GAMBLER. If you’re in the U.K. and need help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. We disclaim any liability for any loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from the use of, or reliance on, the information presented.
