The days of clunky downloadable casino apps are behind us. Online casinos are increasingly moving toward responsive mobile sites and PWAs—Progressive Web Apps—to deliver your favourite casino games. But, how will this benefit you and your overall online gaming experience?
In this article, we cover the casino industry’s shift to browser-based mobile sites and PWAs. We discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each, why the casino industry is making this move, and what it means for the future of online casino gambling.
When it comes to the differences between PWAs, traditional mobile casinos, and mobile apps, there’s a lot to understand. Some casinos still offer downloadable mobile apps, but the larger trend is a shift away from this bulky tech.
This means most players now access online casinos through mobile sites and PWAs. Below, we discuss what they are, and talk a bit about their differences and similarities.
PWAs, or Progressive Web Applications, are ideal for those who prefer an app-like experience when playing at online casinos. They use the latest web technology to deliver an online gambling experience similar to a downloadable app but with a few key differences.
PWAs combine the best features of downloadable apps and mobile websites. They allow players to access casinos through their mobile browser but still offer some offline functionality—like push notifications.
They deliver a seamless app-like experience, yet are accessible from any device without the need to download them from an app store.
This means they won’t take up valuable space on your device’s hard drive. Instead, they prompt you to download a shortcut icon that can be placed on your device’s home screen for easy access.
Mobile casinos are mobile websites that are accessed directly from your device’s browser. They are built to be responsive on any device, meaning they adjust to fit your screen whether you’re playing on a mobile phone or tablet.
Mobile casinos differ from desktop sites in a few ways. They are built specifically with mobile screens in mind, so they use slightly different layouts to fit content within a narrow window.
They’re also built with touch-screen functionality, making menus and icons easy to access with just a finger tap. Finally, they often feature newer and more mobile-optimized versions of your favourite casino games.
Featured Casino
Here are some key benefits of PWAs in online casino gaming:
Offer app-like experience
Updates are seamless
Some offline functionality
Perform faster than traditional mobile websites
Use HTTPS to keep your information secure
Mobile sites can have some advantages over PWAs, depending on your preferences:
Compatible with all mobile browsers
More discoverable by search engines
No storage space required
Perform faster than traditional mobile websites
No intrusive notifications
PWAs and mobile sites share many similar characteristics but there are differences between the two platforms. PWAs are built with newer technology, meaning they’re on the cutting edge of casino gambling.
Developers of PWAs can incorporate your device’s unique attributes such as geolocation, camera functions, and vibration features to create a more immersive and dynamic user experience.
With PWAs, some assets can be cached, which makes them accessible offline in case you encounter a weak internet signal. They also tend to be more secure than mobile websites which are often built with older technology.
Compared to PWAs, mobile sites are browser-based, meaning they can be accessed more easily on older devices that may not support PWA technology. This could be a benefit or a drawback, depending on your individual preferences.
Finally, mobile sites don’t have as much functionality as a PWA, but they’re a bit easier to find via search engines. Here’s how they stack up against one another:
Feels like a downloadable app
Uses HTTPS for advanced security
No need to install or update via app store
Possible to use offline or with limited connectivity
Push notifications re-engage players
Mostly compatible with newer devices
Works across all operating systems
Offers a standard website experience
Could use HTTPS, but not required
No need to install or update via app store
Internet connection required
No push notifications. Users must return manually
Compatible with most devices, including older models
Can work across platforms but possibly less optimally
Below are examples of Aussie casinos that are taking their PWAs and mobile sites to the next level:
Rooli and Lucky Wins are cutting-edge sites that are using the latest PWA tech to provide users with an exceptional online casino experience. Rooli launched in 2023 making it one of the newest casinos on our list and offers players more than 3,500 pokies and table games.
Lucky Wins is another innovative casino that launched just last year. They have a dedicated PWA app which gives you better access to your favourite games and makes it easier to keep track of your VIP progress.
The ability to add this casino to your home screen makes returning to play a breeze.
If you enjoy playing casino games on your mobile browser, then Spinsy is a casino that we highly recommend. There’s no app download required to access this site. It’s been designed to match the quality experience you’d expect on your desktop.
Our team was especially impressed with the pokies and table game selection, as well as the sports betting options.
If you’re after a great mobile website experience combined with a massive welcome bonus, we recommend checking out Stellar Spins. This site launched with much fanfare in 2022 and is still going strong.
This site performs equally well on both Apple and Android devices. It also has an impeccable record for safety and security practices including some of the latest responsible gambling tools.
As PWA and mobile web mechanics evolve, the online gambling industry will evolve alongside them. Emerging technologies combined with player expectations and preferences are driving this push forward.
Here are a few developments that are likely to shape the future of how online casinos are accessed in Australia:
Responsive mobile site design and PWAs continue to improve and advance the world of online casino gaming, and both are shaping the future. Mobile sites provide easy access to your favourite sites, while PWAs help deliver an app-like experience through enhanced functionality.
These days there’s no shortage of sites to suit your individual needs and tastes. Remember to always play responsibly and have fun.
Casino of the Month
Bizzo Casino
Casino of the Month
Join our newsletter and get the lowdown on the latest pokies, top bonuses, and new casinos – no bluffing! It’s like hitting a jackpot every time you check your email. Sign up now and get an exclusive WELCOME BONUS FOR OUR CASINO OF THE MONTH!
Get your bonus!
