Sky Bet claims industry first with TouchID log in
Operator integrates Apple technology into sportsbook app enabling iPhone customers to log in using fingerprint
Sky Betting & Gaming has claimed an industry first after adding Appleâs TouchID log in functionality to its Sky Bet sportsbook app.
The firm has begun a phased roll-out of TouchID after receiving approval from Apple earlier this week, starting with its introduction to 10% of its user base on Tuesday afternoon.
A number of checks were made before TouchID was then rolled out to 50% of Sky Bet customers yesterday morning, and a full roll-out is expected to complete later today.
Speaking to eGR Mobile Intelligence this morning Andrew Walton, head of mobile at Sky Betting & Gaming, said it was the first time an online gambling company had introduced the feature and that âoverwhelmingly positiveâ feedback from initial trials had given the operator confidence that it would be a success.
âWe had 15,000 early adopters using the capability in its first day and the metrics all looked good,â Walton added.
TouchID technology was added to the iPhone 5S, released last year, but Apple only opened up the technology to third party apps when iOS8 was launched last month.
It works by storing a customerâs fingerprints on the device and allowing customers to identify themselves and unlock the device by touching a scanner inside the iPhoneâs interaction button.
The Sky Bet app now detects if a device is TouchID enabled and whether or not customers use the functionality when it is first opened before prompting customers to opt in.