Since the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) introduced the Gamstop scheme in 2018, non-Gamstop casinos have become more and more popular among UK players, particularly those who value flexibility and freedom. Unfortunately, because many UK players use an iPad, iPhone, or MacBook to play online, App Store restrictions have proven to be a barrier to these platforms. The solution that many non-Gamstop casinos have now taken is to optimize their platform for iOS and Mac users. This is because they want to ensure that when UK Apple users want to play a game, nothing is standing in their way. This solution appeals greatly to players as well, since the whole purpose of seeking out UK non-Gamstop casinos in the first place is to avoid barriers.
Why Apple Users Are Choosing Non-Gamstop Casinos
Apple is the dominant player in the European smartphone market, especially in the UK. The country currently has over 40 Apple stores with plans for more in the coming years, indicating the growing market size. So naturally, when players want to get away from UKGC's licensed casinos, they are probably doing so with an Apple device.
For non-Gamstop casinos, this is an opportunity to optimize their platform if they want to attract and retain these Apple users. However, the App Store has very strict regulations that don't allow many of these casinos to publish their gambling apps on the iOS platform, forcing them to look for other ways to serve Apple users.
Shifting to Mobile-Optimized Web Platforms
Because of Apple's restrictions in the App Store, many UK non-Gamstop gambling sites have been forced to optimize their site for mobile web usage. These sites also improve user experience by providing fast withdrawals and a wide selection of games.
One such optimization tool is the use of HTML5 technology, which can be found on Chrome and Safari browsers. So instead of having users download and install an app, they can simply play from their mobile phone browser.
Another tool that is commonly used is the Progressive Web Apps (PWAs). As the name suggests, it is a web app, but it acts like a standalone mobile app, combining the best of both worlds. It has features like push notifications that alert users of updates and available promotions, and full-screen modes to allow players to get fully immersed while they play.
These little innovations have allowed many non-Gamstop casinos to bypass Apple restrictions and to serve Apple users at the same.
Apple Pay and Mobile-Friendly Payment Methods
Non-Gamstop casinos understand the need to appeal to users at every point while on their platform, putting user experience at the top of their list. As such, when it comes to payments, they opt for Apple Pay, which comes with every modern Apple device. Apart from its default presence, Apple Pay is fast becoming a globally preferred deposit method, especially on mobile devices. The advanced encryption of Apple Pay makes it difficult for anyone to make an unauthorized transaction. And because Apple devices use Face ID, players can make transactions using just that. It is as easy and seamless as it gets.
Other mobile-friendly payment methods include the use of major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Crypto has proven to be one of the safest and fastest methods of methods. Its cross-border ability also appeals to players from all over the world, including UK players looking for non-Gamstop casinos.
What The Future Looks Like for Non-Gamstop Casinos on Apple Devices
Non-Gamstop casinos will continue to look for more ways to stay connected to Apple users. This is a no-brainer as Apple's market is expected to continue to grow in Europe, reaching about £20 billion ($24 billion) in Q4 2024 alone. In 2025 and beyond, UK Apple users switching to non-Gamstop casinos can expect to see more PWAs and a variety of crypto casinos. If the goal is to provide ease and convenience, then crypto casinos are the way.
With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), many casinos will integrate AI-powered tools such as ChatGPT or the like into their platforms to allow players to easily analyze complex information and make informed decisions while gambling.
And lastly, with cloud gaming advancements, Apple users can get the best gaming experience without having to install an app or constantly updating it to fix bugs.