Poll results: Don't get too excited about smartwatches

Despite today’s launch of the Apple Watch, smartwatches are unlikely to be a game-changer for mobile egaming, according to the overwhelming majority of respondents this week’s eGaming Review poll.

In preparation for the launch, several operators, including Ladbrokes, William Hill and Unibet, have this week announced their own Apple Watch apps.

But doubts over whether the watch will reach the level of ubiquity enjoyed by the iPhone and iPad have cooled excitement and a conclusive 84% of respondents said the gadget wouldn’t have a major impact on the egaming industry.

There are also questions over functionality. William Hill and Ladbrokes have confirmed their apps will allow users to place bets directly from the watch. But for the time being, Unibet’s will only provide updates.

Damian Cope, Ladbrokes’ international and group strategy director, admitted Ladbrokes was still at the beginning of a development journey with the watch and it is likely we will have to wait a few months until we see operators fulfilling its potential as an egaming channel.

But with more operators and suppliers, including today’s announcement from Playtech, jumping on board with the Apple Watch, it will certainly be worth keeping on an eye on developments.