Mobile Gambling
Mobile gambling allows you to play online games, usually for cash, through your phone's WAP or internet connection. It's based on the same principles as online gambling, although it only came about some five years after online gambling became popular. Although the market is still fairly new, mobile gambling is expected to become a $20-billion industry by 2010.
But how does mobile gambling work, and how safe is it for consumers? If you're interested but don't want to take any risks, read on to learn some of the basics.
How it works
Mobile gambling systems rely on a connection between a program on your phone and a remote gaming host providing the program. You set up an account with the gaming host, which you will use to sign in, play, and record all your wins and losses. You may also need to register a bank account or credit card if you're playing for cash. To play, you simply open the program and connect to the mobile gambling service, and you're good to go.
What you need
The first thing you need is a mobile device with a WAP connection. Mobile phones are the most common, but you can also use PDAs, smartphones, and other gadgets as long as they support the software. Next, you need to download the game itself onto your phone. Most mobile gambling hosts give you the download link once you've paid the sign-up fees, usually through your credit card. Registration is usually done through the online host's website.
Where to play
Most online casinos now offer mobile gambling options, although there are also sites dedicated to mobile platforms. Not all of them will be supported by your network, especially since it's not widely popular yet. If you're not sure, ask your network if they have any gaming services and how you can set it up.
Your options
Mobile gambling comes in several forms, but they all work on the same principle: earning cash for your wins. Mobile casinos are easily the most popular form of mobile gambling, as it builds on the success of the online casino. You can also bet on sporting events (horse races are notably popular), play poker and card games, and join bingo rooms.
