The conception of online casinos dates back to 1994, when the tiny Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda passed the Free Trade and Processing Act. This law allowed licenses to be granted to organizations applying to open online casinos. It was a landmark moment which led to the first real money wagers being placed on casino games over the internet.
In late 1994, a software company called Microgaming was one of the first companies to take advantage of these new licenses in Antigua. They launched an online casino called The Gaming Club, which offered a small selection of classic casino games to play online for real money. This initial offering was basic compared to today’s online gambling platforms, like Just Casino, but it paved the way for the industry over the following decade.
Growth Slowly Gathers Pace
The number of online casinos began slowly ticking upwards through the mid and late 90s. However, the technology available at this time resulted in a somewhat underwhelming experience for users. Slow internet speeds meant games were basic with simple graphics. Despite this, a small community of passionate players kept the industry moving forwards during these embryonic years.
As internet speeds started improving in the early 2000s, so did the quality of online casinos. By 2004, there were over 1,000 internet casinos available. This booming growth led to 2004 revenues reaching an impressive $7.4 billion per year. Some of today’s most famous online casino brands like Bet365 and NetEnt launched around this period, providing more choice than ever for players.
Smartphone Revolution Adds Impetus
The rise of smartphones in the late 2000s brought another huge boost for online casinos. Casino apps allowed betting and playing casino games on the move for the first time. Making online casinos genuinely portable inevitably increased their popularity in a massive way. The simpler sign-up process on mobile also acquired legions of new customers.
The number of people around the world playing euteller kasinot games or wagering online leapt from 23.2 million in 2008, to over 40 million by 2010. Industry annual revenues subsequently doubled, from around $20 billion in 2009, to over $40 billion just two years later.
A landmark study in 2010 found that over 25% of mobile web searches at the time were directly related to online gambling – showing an appetite for mobile casino games. Seeing how pivotal mobile technology was becoming, online casino operators began optimizing games and sites to provide the very best experience on smartphones and tablets. These efforts helped the sector continue its rapid acceleration.
Key Events in History of Online Casinos
| Year | Key Event |
| 1994 | The first licenses for online casinos issued in Antigua and Barbuda, leading to launch of the inaugural online casino – The Gaming Club |
| Early 2000s | Internet speeds pick up pace allowing improved graphics and gameplay. Number of online casinos surpasses 1,000. |
| Mid-2000s | Well-known brands like Bet365 and NetEnt launch, offering more choice for players. |
| Late 2000s | Rise of smartphones allows online casino games on the move for the first time via apps and mobile sites. |
| 2010 | Over 25% of mobile searches are related to real money gambling, showing appetite for mobile play. Operators begin focusing efforts on optimizing for mobile. |
Conclusion
The ability for anyone around the world with internet access to enjoy casino games and sports betting online has utterly transformed the gambling sector. Today, the online casino industry continues to thrive, with some projections estimating the global market could be worth up to $125 billion USD by 2025.
An ever-increasing catalog of classic and new casino games, combined with innovations like virtual reality and live dealers, will ensure online casinos keep players entertained for decades to come.
