Las Vegas Continues Move Towards Wireless Gambling

There’s been a vision among Las Vegas casino executives for some time now—wireless gaming. The vision is quite large. One of ideas will allow gamblers to play on wireless hand-held computers almost anywhere on the property. I can’t think of anything better than lounging around the pool, and placing a horse racing bet or playing some video poker while I’m enjoying a nice dinner. Today, these things are just ideas. Tomorrow, you will be able to do them.

The wireless gaming concept is heating up and recently a major player in game manufacturing, IGT, jumped in. On Wednesday, International Game Technology (IGT) won an endorsement. They are one step away from being formally licensed to compete in the hand-held mobile gambling devices market. That last step happened on August 24 in front of the Gaming Control Board.

A couple months ago Cantor Gaming officially became the first licensed company allowed to compete in this emerging market. It was really a payback of sorts. Cantor Gaming was a major force behind the legislation initiative that put wireless gambling on the map in Nevada. The legislation was finally passed this year. Nevada is the first state to allow wireless gambling.

There will be restrictions. For instance, you won’t be able to use them in the restroom. Only areas that allow casino supervision will be acceptable. The interest in this new revolution is growing among both gamblers and casinos. Some of the major casinos are opting out. Rather than being an early adopter, they want to see how it all shakes out. If the buzz is any indication, it’s going to be a big hit.

The hand-held devices will most likely allow horse race wagering, blackjack, poker, roulette, keno and slots. Prototypes are already created, and the process is moving ahead fast. You can bet that I’ll be one of the first gamblers to test out the new hand-held devices.

So, what do you think about this? If you came to Las Vegas, would you use the device? Does this sound like a great idea? Post your comments below.