The future of iGaming: Top 3 trends to watch in 2025

The iGaming industry keeps expanding, with the regulated market alone generating tens of billions of dollars annually. Operators are rolling out visually stunning slots and coming up with new ways to attract players. 

But while the big picture is clear, understanding specific trends gives a sharper view of where the industry is headed. And for us, that means spotting fresh opportunities, new mechanics, and innovative approaches to claim our share of this booming market. Our 888STARZ Partners expert team has made an overview of the main global trends that will shape iGaming in 2025, based on research by international organizations and experts. Below are the most important developments to watch.

#1: Technological innovations — artificial intelligence and cybersecurity

Artificial intelligence (AI) remains an important tool for personalizing the gaming experience and identifying problematic player behavior. AI algorithms analyze data in real-time, detecting risky gambling, and help operators implement preventive measures and offer customized solutions:

«Online gambling companies have a lot of data about their players, as each bet, each spin on a slot, each deposit, or time spent online — all of this provides a lot of information. We train the AI model to analyze this behavior and recognize possible harmful patterns», — Business Insider quotes the director of one of the international iGaming companies on the use of AI in the gambling industry to analyze player behavior and identify potential risks.

However, technologies not only bring benefits but also create new threats. For example, the Allianz Risk Barometer 2024 report states that cyber incidents are the top global business risk, with 36% of respondents expressing concern about data breaches, attacks on critical infrastructure, and increased ransomware attacks.

Therefore, artificial intelligence technologies that help protect players should be implemented together with enhanced cybersecurity measures, as without trust in data security, the effectiveness of innovation remains in question.

#2: Regulatory environment — adapting to new requirements and tendencies

New rules are being introduced in different regions of the world to protect players and ensure business transparency. In the UK, for example, regulators have introduced mandatory self-restraint tools for players:

«The development of universal databases to identify problem gamblers can significantly improve the safety of the industry», — GambleAware, an independent charity in the UK that works to prevent gambling-related harm, emphasizes in its report.

Fast and high-quality adaptation to new regulatory requirements is becoming a key advantage for companies seeking to remain competitive in a changing market environment. At the same time, the iGaming industry continues to grow, driven by market expansion and new technologies. Stricter regulations make gambling more transparent and attract new players. Mobile gaming and live dealer formats increase engagement, while innovations improve security and user experience.

According to the Business Research Company report, global revenues are set to rise, reflecting increased player activity and industry stability. Now let’s look at one more and final trend shaping the future of iGaming.

#3: Reputation and promotion of a responsible brand

Brand awareness and reputation are important factors in maintaining public trust and, consequently, brand development in the market. This rule is relevant for all industries, and gambling is no exception. Companies that implement the principles of responsible gambling gain a competitive advantage and consumer trust.

Thus, reports of the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) emphasize that raising responsible gambling standards is a key priority for operators, as it helps to strengthen player confidence and ensures sustainable development of the industry. At the same time, there is still a lot of work to be done in this market in the context of transparency, the associations say: 

«Despite the positive progress of recent years, there are still too many operators that behave outside the social norms, damaging not only their reputation but also undermining the trust in the entire industry. These operators need to recognize the changes in the political and regulatory environment: this is not 2007, and this is no longer an embryonic industry», — EGBA Secretary General Maarten Heyer said in his recent article entitled «Putting Cooperation Into Action For A Sustainable Industry Future». 

Big winter promo by 888STARZ Partners

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In addition to the main prize, webmasters can receive a bonus of up to 20% of their winnings for referred players under the RevShare system.  Winners will be determined based on the number of points earned for each referred player — the higher the Tier of the GEO from which the player comes, the more points the partner will receive.

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Undoubtedly, in 2025, iGaming will continue to evolve, guided by three main vectors: the development of AI and cybersecurity technologies, adaptation to changes in the regulatory environment, and building a reputation as a responsible business. Studying and implementing these trends will help companies to be successful in the global gambling market. And active progress in establishing a transparent legal market will only develop the gambling industry as a socially responsible business.