5G refers to the fifth generation of wireless mobile networks with its predecessor 4G being released in the 2010s, completely revolutionising how we view our mobile devices. It redefined what our devices could achieve and massively expanded the usability of mobile platforms, meaning that by the time the next decade began, our smartphones were our computer, bank card, camera, streaming platform, social network, and games console all in our pocket; in fact, pretty much everything but texting and calling others. Now isn’t that a stark departure from their original purpose?
One area where 5G integration is revolutionising experiences is the online casino world. With faster loading times, more consistent live feeds, and an overall streamlined experience. This means that more people are accessing their favourite real money online casinos like Spin Genie from their mobile phones or tablets than ever before. Join us for today’s article as we explore the impact of 5G on online gaming.
5G Technology Explained
5G is the fifth generation of mobile networks and was first rolled out in 2019. While its global uptake had been stalled slightly due to the impact of global events, in the past few years it has been all steam ahead, and 5G is now integrated in over 60 countries worldwide.
The journey of your mobile data exemplifies the impact of 5G networks. Your device sends data after connecting to the nearest cell tower using radio waves. The cellular tower provides data to the data centre via underground cables. The datacenter transfers the data to the service and waits for a response. After getting a response from the service (such as a website), it delivers the data to the cellular tower via subterranean connections, which sends it to you via radio waves, the time this takes to happen is referred to as 'latency' which we'll explore further later on.
Higher multi-Gbps (gigabytes per second) peak data speeds, super low latency, more dependability, enormous network capacity, more availability, and a more consistent user experience to more users are all possible thanks to 5G technology.
5G is Designed to Enhance Gaming Experiences
How we use our devices has drastically changed in the last 15 years, with phones no longer just being a communication tool, but a source of entertainment. Mobile gaming is now a huge industry with innovations being developed year after year, and a large part of the benefits 5G offers is tailored to gaming experiences, such as the following:
Reduced Latency
Latency is simply a techy word for ‘response time’. 5G's near-instant response time eliminates lag, creating a seamless experience. Action and racing games, where time is crucial, benefit most from this boost as do live casino games. Puzzles and adventure games perform smoother for casual players alongside slots and table games, and multiplayer games run without interruptions on slower networks.
Improved Graphics and Streaming
The use of 5G technology has improved live streaming, allowing players to watch live streams from gaming platforms like Twitch as well as improving live casino experiences. Playing a live casino game means interacting in real-time with a live dealer and other bettors who are online at the same time as you so being able to watch a livestream in HD without lag is essential to an immersive and authentic gaming experience.
Improving Mobile Gaming Technology
In addition to a rise in live dealer games, the influence of 5G on mobile gaming implies that casino sites will be able to make better use of developing technologies. We can expect an increase in the availability of virtual reality and augmented reality casino games (more on that later).
Improved connections enable online casinos to provide more online gambling alternatives and upgraded games. In addition to live dealer games, players can access casino sites from all over the world, allowing them to play games that are popular on different continents and nations. Pai gow and pai gow poker, for example, are not commonly found in Western casinos, but they are extremely popular in China. This highlights the significant influence of 5G on mobile gambling.
Faster speeds and more bandwidth also mean that 5G provides stronger security than previous generations. It encrypts the connections between the user and the base station, whereas 4G establishes the connection but does not encrypt the data transmitted. So, while 4G encrypts data after a connection is established, it has some vulnerabilities when compared to 5G.
Opening the Door for Increased Integration of Augmented and Virtual Reality
Developers now have unprecedented opportunity with 5G's end-to-end capabilities. Due to increased bandwidth, game developers can create more intricate and complicated game concepts than on the old network. This means greater story arcs, complicated game dynamics, and stunning graphics that gamers will love.
All cloud gaming services depend on high-speed internet, which will improve with 5G. The low latency and high data transmission rate of 5G networks will allow mobile platforms to play console-level competitive online games. It democratises high-quality gaming and may attract many to the iGaming sector.
In addition, 5G supports AR and VR more realistically. These technologies can also create surroundings similar to traditional casinos, which make visiting a casino accessible to all regardless of location or physical ability. With AR and VR still in development, the iGaming sector will include new interactive-experience-seeking customers.
The Downsides of 5G
While 5G offers some very exciting potential for future gaming innovations, it is important to note that the technology is still in its rollout phase. This means that some considerations need to be made. For example, currently, 5G infrastructure is only available in cities and certain regions meaning gamers in rural or underprivileged locations may not have 5G access, limiting their speed and stability. This digital divide limits 5G gaming benefits to developed areas like cities.
Many older phones don't support 5G and some providers only provide 5G on select plans meaning expensive upgrades or even a new phone will be required. While it improves playability, 5G may deplete batteries faster and utilise more data, raising prices. We all know that as our phones age the battery doesn't last as long, so playing 5G games while commuting, for example, won't be feasible unless you want your phone at low battery all day. Some devices may even overheat during 5G use!
With the rise of the iGaming business due to 5G technology, governments and regulatory authorities must ensure legislation is able to keep up with minimal player disruption. Issues of data privacy, ethical gaming, and gambling fraud must all be carefully reconsidered thanks to the complicated online environments created by 5G gaming.
How 5G Technology is Revolutionising Gaming Experiences at Spin Genie
At Spin Genie we’re always looking to keep ahead of the times and continue to provide exceptional gaming experiences. That’s why we’re so excited about the potential offered by 5G, which is why we’ve already started to integrate the technology into our site. Because of this, players not only get a cutting-edge casino experience, but can enjoy games with more immersive graphics, greater production quality, faster response time, less lag, and maximum convenience.
5G Is the Future!
5G is not anything scary, or a form of brain control as some sections of the internet might believe! Instead, it is simply the next generation of mobile networks designed to streamline user experiences in all aspects of their mobile experience, particularly mobile gaming.
So, if you’re ready for the next generation of online casino entertainment, step into the future and sign up with Spin Genie today.