Online Bookies Given Boost As Google Play Change Gambling Policy

Bookmakers have been given a huge boost with the news that Google Play has recently changed its policy regarding gambling apps being listed on their store. Previously, online bookies had to list Android applications on their own website in the form of an apk file, as there was a ban on gambling operators offering real money games on the Google Play Store. This was far from ideal for punters and bookies alike, and it massively restricted the number of downloads they could realistically receive.

Google have had a change of heart though, and from August 2017 Android users will be able to search for gambling products on the Play store. Currently, this applies to the UK and other licensed European markets, but this may be extended to other countries in the future.

The change reverses a ban on gambling products that was first introduced back in 2013. The reason the ban was introduced related to the fact that Android could not fulfil appropriate age verification on those with access to the apps, causing legal concerns.

It was reported in July that Google were sending emails to gambling related companies, which confirmed their decision to reverse the previous policy. Now, as long as the bookies submit an application, their mobile apps will be considered for listing on the Google Play store.

Apps Are Available Now

888 Holdings were one of the first to take advantage of the changes, as they launched their 888Casino, 888Poker, 888Sport, Wink Slots and Wink Bingo apps on the store. Other popular bookmakers have followed their lead, with mobile apps for William Hill, Coral, Sky Bet and Paddy Power among many now listed for download.

As Android devices are approximately 50% of the smartphone market, this change is huge for online bookmakers. As punters will now have greater mobile access to their sites, more money will likely be wagered.

It is also good news from a matched betting perspective. These changes will make it a lot easier for mobile users to get their bets on with the bookmaker. Crucially, there are also mobile apps available for download for betting exchanges such as Betfair. So, when using MatchedBets.com to complete an offer, Android users will now easily be able to jump between certain bookmaker apps and the betting exchange app in order to quickly get their bets on.