Mobile gambling games, or “mobile casino apps”, enable people to gamble from their mobile phones. These applications allow people to enjoy casino-style gambling from any location without needing to travel physically to land-based casinos, with applications available for download on platforms like Apple’s App Store and other similar mobile software providers. Players should keep in mind, however, that mobile gaming companies are not as tightly regulated than traditional casino websites – meaning it is wise not to share passwords or bank account info with these providers.
Mobile phones have become essential tools in many people’s daily lives and are used in conjunction with other technologies, including social networking sites, internet browsing sites, banking accounts online, calendars etc. Unfortunately, research on the relationship between mobile phone use and addictive behavior is scarce; most studies rely on self-report data or markers of addiction which are less reliable than in other cases of mental disorders.
This research examined mobile gambling behaviour using a simulated gambling app with a random ratio schedule of reinforcement and the capability of collecting contextual data; combined with GPS co-ordinates recorded every time a bet was placed. Participants were required to opt-in voluntarily in order to have their behavior tracked, with an option provided on their device to change its settings in order to stop this from happening. Results from this experiment demonstrated that the app induced patterns of behavior consistent with previous laboratory-based behavioural and cognitive gambling studies. Engagement with an app when there was still the chance of winning predicted perseverative behavior during its extinction phase when winning became no longer possible. Latencies between gambles and predisposition to prematurely terminate gambling sessions were also predicted by reward magnitude.
Mobile casinos are increasingly popular as they allow people to enjoy casino gaming while on the move. Designed specifically for mobile device screens, these casinos typically support iOS (Apple’s operating system) and Android software (which runs most other mobile phones). Offering slots, blackjack, poker and roulette among many others. Due to less regulated regulations of mobile casinos than land-based ones, players should take care when selecting an appropriate site and ensure no sensitive personal details are disclosed to potential predators.