The face of betting has undergone many changes throughout human history, with the practice being engaged since time immemorial. With the rise of events with uncertain outcomes arose, communities of excitable wagerers emerged with them. Nowadays, with the phenomenal advancements of technology, betting has become easier, more accessible, and quite simply, more fun.
Early forms of the practice of betting involved wagers being placed on gladiators and animal fights, and was reserved for the lucky few who had enough extra disposable income to use for leisure activities.
As the years went by, the roots of betting and bookmaking grew stronger and became somewhat of a cultural identity in some nations. Certain sports, such as horse racing and dog racing, became characterised by the excitable betting communities that followed them.
The practice has been so popular that outlet stores arose to provide punters with places to commune and discuss the latest news in sports and other events of interest. Brick and Mortar betting shops still have a strong foothold on the betting market, but with time, betting’s online form is bound to render these outlets obsolete.
If we look to the practice today, we see a far cry from what was practiced in the early days. The powerful progression of the digital revolution has seen the business of bookmaking and the practice of betting grow new branches that many could never have envisaged before.
No longer do you need to be at an event or in a shop to place wagers on your favourite sports. Nowadays you can do so from your couch at home, or from your mobile while in the supermarket, or even from your computer at work.
And the excitement doesn’t stop there. Naturally, with technology, new forms of betting have arisen that have enthralled many a punter. What’s more is that there’s no sign that innovative advances will be slowing down any time soon. In countries like South Africa, local bookmakers provide virtual sports betting, so sports fans no longer need to wait for actual sporting events to begin.
The formation of the new found games sits on the foundation that has been established by technology. Virtual events are churned out by special statistical software that randomly assign outcomes to simulated events. All punters need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy.
Another area of betting that has been revolutionised by technology’s rise is through safety of money, data, and everything that needs safekeeping while betting. Online bookmakers make the safety of their clients’ money and data a massive priority, and do so by employing special encrypting software to safeguard their customers.
Other areas that would leave many an older punter’s jaw on the floor is with how modern online betting platforms are furnished with gaming suites. Nowadays, bookmakers are no longer just bookmakers, they are entertainment centres that attract far more than just the seasoned punter interested in football, horse racing or darts.
What’s clear to see is that the rapid roll out of tech has transformed life as we know it, with betting and bookmaking being another area to feel the influence of technology.