📜 1990s: The Birth of Online Casinos
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1994: The first online gambling software is introduced by Microgaming.
Event Description Online Gambling Licensing The government of Antigua and Barbuda grants licenses to online casinos, marking the start of regulated online gambling. -
1996: The launch of the first casino-style website.
Event Description InterCasino Launch InterCasino becomes one of the first online casinos, allowing players to gamble from the comfort of their homes.
📈 2000s: Rapid Expansion
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2000: Online poker gains massive popularity.
Event Description Planet Poker Launch Planet Poker becomes the first real money online poker site, attracting numerous players worldwide. -
2006: The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA).
Event Description Legal Challenges This act creates significant legal challenges for online casinos in the United States, affecting the industry.
🔒 2010s: Regulation and Innovation
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2011: Regulation of online poker in the US begins.
Event Description New Jersey Regulation New Jersey becomes one of the first states to regulate online poker, creating a legal framework for players. -
2016: The rise of mobile gaming.
Event Description Mobile Optimization Online casinos develop apps and mobile-friendly websites to facilitate gambling on smartphones and tablets.
🚀 2020s: The Future of Online Casinos
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2020: Live dealer games become mainstream.
Event Description Live Casino Experience Casinos start using advanced technology to provide an immersive live dealer experience, enhancing player engagement. -
2023: Cryptocurrency in online casinos.
Event Description Bitcoin Acceptance More online casinos begin to accept cryptocurrencies, offering players additional payment options and anonymity.
For more information about online gaming, check out Gambling Commission for regulatory insights.