Fans of land-based casinos could soon be enjoying the latest technological advances in hand-held gaming after the Nevada Gaming Commission’s March 23 meeting in Las Vegas. While the Commission’s trials of the hand-held wireless technology have prompted statements that the gaming devices are “secure and reliable”, the Commission isn’t expected to release its final verdict along with its plans for licensing until its next general meeting.
The technology has been designed to increase the locations in casinos where gamblers are able to wager from. With the introduction of hand-held gaming devices, casino fans can place bets from the bar, the restaurant and even the pool. Industry analysts have responded enthusiastically to developments, stating the technology will rapidly increase the fortunes of land-based casinos and help them gain entry into the world of online gambling.
While one device developed by Diamond Systems has already been approved, the timeframe before the devices reach the market is predicted to be another six months. The Nevada Gaming Commission had to agree by unanimous vote that the devices were secure and will be used in accordance with strict guidelines on under age gambling.
 
Adoption of a new set of regulations governing the use of hand-held gaming, along with licensing for the devices, will be discussed at the Commission’s meeting on March 23. Bill Bible of the Nevada Resort Association is one gambling operator eager for the Commission to finalize the issues. "This is one of the final steps of the procedure that will let casino licensees use these devices if they choose," Bible said.
In 2005 Nevada became the first U.S. state to permit the use of wireless, handheld gambling devices at casino hotels.

Back to February 2006 Online Gambling News
Back to latest Online Gambling News
Back to Online Gambling Archive