Connect with us

Technology

Growl Starts Pre-Orders for AI-Powered Boxing Bag, Sees Early Traction

Designed to make boxing more exciting and accessible, Growl projects a virtual boxing coach into people’s living rooms Connected boxing startup Growl has begun taking pre-orders on its flagship product: an AI-powered punching bag that projects a life-sized virtual boxing coach into people’s living rooms. Pre-orders are available as part of a Kickstarter campaign that […]

Published

on


Designed to make boxing more exciting and accessible, Growl projects a virtual boxing coach into people’s living rooms

Connected boxing startup Growl has begun taking pre-orders on its flagship product: an AI-powered punching bag that projects a life-sized virtual boxing coach into people’s living rooms.

Pre-orders are available as part of a Kickstarter campaign that launched this week; Growl already had 58 backers and over $144,000 pledged as of late Tuesday morning, far exceeding the campaign’s $20,000 goal. The company also received close to 1,000 VIP pre-reservations before launching its campaign. 

Growl’s Kickstarter campaign runs until June 14. 

Founded by Léo Desrumaux and Nicolas de Maubeuge as a way to make boxing more exciting and accessible to newcomers, Growl raised $4.75 million in seed funding in December as it looks to become the next big product in connected fitness. 

“Our belief is that boxing has this uncanny, universal touch and potential,” Desrumaux told Athletech News in December. “You can realize that universal touch if you make it fun and accessible.”

Growl uses 3D motion tracking to capture punches and AI computing to project virtual coaches directly onto the bag’s surface, allowing users to box with virtual coaches and play interactive boxing games. Growl also coaches users on traditional fitness movements like bodyweight squats, push-ups and dumbbell exercises.

Growl boxing bag hangs on a wall
credit: GROWL
See Also


The Austin, Texas, and Paris, France-based company has been backed by UFC heavyweight fighter Ciryl Gane, who was part of December’s funding round, and its executive team includes former talent from Peloton, Tonal and Aescape. 

On Kickstarter, boxing and fitness enthusiasts can pre-order Growl for plans starting at $2,449, around 50% off the bag’s planned $4,949 MSRP. Those who place a Kickstarter order can also receive perks like a free 12-month subscription for premium content and a 30-day risk-free trial.

Growl aims to begin shipping its product in February 2026. 





Link

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Technology

Global Gaming Console Market Size, Share, Growth & Trends Report

Gaming Console Market The gaming console market has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, driven by advancements in technology, increasing consumer interest in gaming, and the rising popularity of online multiplayer experiences. Gaming consoles serve as dedicated devices for playing video games, offering users a seamless and immersive gaming experience. Major players in the market, […]

Published

on


Gaming Console Market

Gaming Console Market

The gaming console market has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, driven by advancements in technology, increasing consumer interest in gaming, and the rising popularity of online multiplayer experiences. Gaming consoles serve as dedicated devices for playing video games, offering users a seamless and immersive gaming experience. Major players in the market, such as Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo, continue to innovate by releasing new hardware and software, enhancing graphics, processing power, and overall gameplay experiences. The market is characterized by a diverse range of products, including traditional consoles, handheld devices, and hybrid systems, catering to various segments of gamers.

Report Highlights:

How Big Is the Gaming Console Market?

The global gaming console market size reached USD 42.0 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 61.2 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.13% during 2025-2033. The rising number of gaming influencers who showcase video games, coupled with numerous technological innovations in the hardware and software aspects of gaming consoles, are primarily augmenting the market.

Buy Now: https://www.imarcgroup.com/checkout?id=5454&method=1670

Key Highlights of the Gaming Console Market:

Market Growth: The global gaming console market is projected to grow significantly, with estimates suggesting it could reach a valuation of approximately USD 61.2 Billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 4.13%. This growth is fueled by increasing consumer spending on gaming hardware and software.

Technological Advancements: Innovations in gaming technology, such as enhanced graphics capabilities, faster processors, and support for VR and AR, are driving the development of next-generation consoles. These advancements are improving the overall gaming experience and attracting a broader audience.

Rise of Digital Distribution: The shift towards digital game distribution is reshaping the market landscape. Consumers increasingly prefer purchasing and downloading games online rather than buying physical copies. Subscription services, such as Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Now, are gaining popularity, providing gamers with access to a vast library of titles for a monthly fee.

Growing Esports Industry: The rapid growth of the esports industry is influencing the gaming console market. Competitive gaming events and tournaments are attracting large audiences, leading to increased interest in high-performance consoles that can support competitive play.

Emergence of Cloud Gaming: Cloud gaming services are gaining traction, allowing players to stream games directly to their devices without the need for powerful hardware. This trend is expected to reshape the gaming console market, as traditional consoles may need to adapt to integrate cloud gaming capabilities.

Factors Affecting the Growth of The Gaming Console Market:

Shift Towards Cloud Gaming:

The gaming console market is changing due to cloud gaming. As internet connections improve, more players are using cloud services to stream games. This shift means gamers no longer need high-end hardware. Consumers want flexible and cost-effective solutions. Major companies like Microsoft and Sony are investing in cloud infrastructure. They aim to offer a large library of games on-demand. This trend attracts casual gamers who value convenience. By 2025, cloud gaming will likely change how games are accessed and played. This will increase competition among console makers and service providers.

Rise of Subscription Services:

A key factor changing the gaming console market is the rise of subscription services. Platforms like Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus are gaining popularity. Consumers now prefer subscription models that offer access to many games for a set monthly fee. This shift shows that players value convenience and cost over owning games. These services provide a rotating library of games, boosting player engagement and creating steady revenue for console makers. Gamers can try new titles without the risk of buying them outright. This fosters a more inclusive gaming atmosphere. As this trend grows, subscription services are expected to significantly influence console sales and consumer choices by 2025.

Enhanced Social and Multiplayer Experiences:

The demand for better social and multiplayer experiences is a key factor in the gaming console market. As gaming becomes more social, players want consoles that enable smooth online interactions and community engagement. Features like cross-platform play, built-in voice chat, and social sharing are now essential for modern consoles. This trend comes from the desire for collaborative and competitive experiences, letting friends and players worldwide connect and compete. By 2025, the gaming console market will likely emphasize social features more. Manufacturers will focus on creating platforms that build community and enhance multiplayer interactions. This push for social connectivity will attract new gamers and keep existing ones, driving growth in the console market.

Request For a Sample Copy of This Report: https://www.imarcgroup.com/gaming-console-market/requestsample

Gaming Console Market Segmentation:

Breakup by Type:

Home Consoles

Handheld Consoles

Hybrid Consoles

Dedicated Consoles

Others

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the type.

Breakup by Applications:

Gaming

Non-Gaming

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the applications.

Breakup by End Use:

Residential

Commercial

Residential dominates the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the end use.

Breakup by Region:

North America

Asia

Europe

Latin America

Middle East and Africa

North America leads the market in 2024 with over 41.2% share, driven by advanced technology infrastructure, strong regulatory frameworks, and a high volume of M&A activities, fueling demand for secure VDR solutions.

Top Gaming Console Market Leaders:

The Gaming Console Market research report outlines a detailed analysis of the competitive landscape, offering in-depth profiles of major companies.

Some Of the Key Players In The Market Are:

Advanced Micro Devices Inc.

Atari VCS LLC.

Bandai Namco Studios Inc.

Microsoft Corporation

Nintendo Co. Ltd.

NVIDIA Corporation

Sony Group Corporation

Speak To An Analyst: https://www.imarcgroup.com/request?type=report&id=5454&flag=C

If you require any specific information that is not covered currently within the scope of the report, we will provide the same as a part of the customization.

About Us:

IMARC Group is a global management consulting firm that helps the world’s most ambitious changemakers to create a lasting impact. The company provide a comprehensive suite of market entry and expansion services.

IMARC offerings include thorough market assessment, feasibility studies, company incorporation assistance, factory setup support, regulatory approvals and licensing navigation, branding, marketing and sales strategies, competitive landscape and benchmarking analyses, pricing and cost research, and procurement research.

Contact us:

IMARC Group

134 N 4th St. Brooklyn, NY 11249, USA

Email: sales@imarcgroup.com

Tel No:(D) +91 120 433 0800

United States: +1-631-791-1145

This release was published on openPR.



Link

Continue Reading

Technology

Talking AI in gaming with Mark Flores Martin

Right to the Source welcomes its very first guest as Mark Flores Martin braves Ed Birkin’s skepticism and Robin Harrison’s flurry of buzzwords to discuss the evolution of artificial intelligence in gambling.  Mark’s business Xgenia started out using AI to power game development, before pivoting to create “AIs building AIs”. The focus is providing the […]

Published

on


Right to the Source welcomes its very first guest as Mark Flores Martin braves Ed Birkin’s skepticism and Robin Harrison’s flurry of buzzwords to discuss the evolution of artificial intelligence in gambling. 

Mark’s business Xgenia started out using AI to power game development, before pivoting to create “AIs building AIs”. The focus is providing the tools for clients to build their own artificial intelligence, train it and ultimately create something bespoke for themselves. 

Listen on Apple Podcasts

And for an early adopter he’s remarkably clear eyed on its potential, and skeptical of the wave of products described as revolutionising AI in gaming. The vast majority are just wrappers for ChatGPT, he points out. 

That’s not to say he doesn’t believe in the potential. “We’ve just discovered fire, and we’re still learning how to cook with it,” he says. 

Will he break down Ed’s skepticism towards AI in gaming? Can Robin fit a few more buzzwords in? Watch or listen to find out in the latest episode of Right to the Source! 



Link

Continue Reading

Technology

Predictive Tech Indian Sports Centers Can Adopt

Sports injuries are a growing concern in India and worldwide, with athletes increasingly suffering from ligament tears, stress fractures, and other strains. According to industry reports, knee and ankle injuries among Indian football and cricket players have surged by 500% in recent years, while anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears have risen by 400%. These trends not only jeopardize […]

Published

on


Sports injuries are a growing concern in India and worldwide, with athletes increasingly suffering from ligament tears, stress fractures, and other strains. According to industry reports, knee and ankle injuries among Indian football and cricket players have surged by 500% in recent years, while anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears have risen by 400%. These trends not only jeopardize players’ careers but also strain medical budgets and team performance.

To combat this, Indian sports organizations are turning to advanced injury-prediction technologies, ranging from AI-driven analytics to wearable sensors and video analysis, that can proactively identify risk factors and prevent injuries before they occur.

Predictive Technologies in Sports

AI and Machine Learning Analytics: Modern AI systems integrate vast data sources, such as training load, fitness tests, and medical history, to detect patterns that precede injuries. By analyzing biomechanics and performance trends, machine-learning models can flag athletes at risk.

For instance, AI algorithms can identify early warning signs, like subtle changes in running gait, which may indicate fatigue or injury risk. High-level sports federations use these insights to customize training programs. As one sports technologist explains, “AI can detect anomalies that even experienced coaches might miss.” Over time, this data-driven approach helps create personalized, injury-resistant training regimens.

Wearable Sensors and Trackers: Today’s wearables, embedded with GPS, accelerometers, and heart-rate monitors, track real-time metrics like distance covered, speed bursts, muscle load, and fatigue levels.

The Indian cricket team, for example, uses GPS-embedded compression vests to monitor players’ running distance, sprint effort, and heart rate. This data helps coaches intervene before overuse injuries occur.

Indian startups are also contributing:

  • Footrax (Ahmedabad) is developing affordable GPS trackers for grassroots athletes.

  • KIBI Sports (Pune) combines wearables with AI to provide real-time fitness feedback, helping athletes “push their limits while reducing injury risks.”

Video and Motion Analysis: Computer-vision tools analyze video footage to detect technical flaws that could lead to injuries. AI-backed systems can flag improper landing angles or asymmetrical movements, helping correct form before damage occurs.

This technology is becoming standard in elite sports, where even minor deviations in shoulder mechanics or running patterns can signal injury risks.

Case Studies and Industry Examples

Globally, sports organizations using predictive tech report dramatic results. In soccer, Spanish club Getafe partnered with an AI analytics firm (Zone7) to monitor players’ data. The club saw injury rates drop sharply: a 40% reduction in total injuries in the first year, and a 66% reduction in the second year using the system. As Getafe’s head of performance noted, players who would normally have had three injuries in a season now had only one on average. Similarly, NBA and NFL teams use Catapult and other analytics platforms to monitor player loads, and professional leagues (Soccer, Rugby, Cricket) increasingly mandate wearable vests. Even in India, top teams have begun adopting these tools. The Indian cricket team’s trainers report that the GPS vests give “a clearer picture on load monitoring,” helping them keep bowlers and batsmen fit over long series. All these cases underline that data-driven monitoring – from individualized algorithms to high-speed cameras – can prevent injuries before they happen.

Indian Startups and Initiatives

Several “Make in India” sports tech ventures are emerging to bring these capabilities to Indian athletes:

  • KIBI Sports (Pune): Founded by ex-athlete Sagar Rai, KIBI offers a data platform linking with wearable trackers and smartphones. It provides AI-driven insights on fitness, recovery, and injury risk. Rai explains that KIBI’s system “integrates with existing wearable technologies,” enabling coaches to analyze dozens of metrics and identify overtraining. Olympian judoka Tulika Mann says KIBI’s insights “have been a game-changer” for her training approach.

  • Footrax (Ahmedabad): This startup focuses on affordable wearable trackers for grassroots and youth sports. Footrax has developed GPS-enabled insoles and bands that measure speed, distance, step load and more. In 2022 it raised USD 100,000 to expand its product range and make such data accessible to amateur players. The company’s goal is to “empower everyone…with data” – guiding even young athletes to optimize their play and avoid injury through daily analytics.

  • Stupa Sports Analytics (Delhi): Stupa offers AI-powered analytics and visualization tools to federations and broadcasters. Founded in 2020, Stupa claims partnerships with over 10 sports federations (tennis, table tennis, etc.) and is expanding into emerging sports like badminton and padel. Its platform ingests data (from wearables, match stats, video) and uses AI to highlight training load, technical weak spots and injury patterns. As Stupa’s co-founder notes, AI algorithms in their tool “can identify subtle changes in a player’s movement patterns that could signal an increased risk of injury”. Such analytics are being deployed by academies and state associations to level up training regimens.

Other initiatives include collaborations of Indian institutes on sports biomechanics and even government-supported AI projects for athlete health. Overall, a vibrant sports-tech ecosystem is emerging: the Indian sports technology market is projected to grow rapidly (to over USD 1.4 billion by 2033) driven by wearables, predictive platforms and data analytics. Major Indian leagues (IPL, Pro Kabaddi, ISL) are already integrating GPS vests and analytics dashboards, which paves the way for broader adoption at academies and training centers.

Why India Needs Injury-Prediction Tech

Adopting injury-prediction tech offers multiple benefits for Indian sports at all levels:

  • Fewer Injuries and Less Downtime: By forecasting risk, teams can prevent injuries before they sideline players. Studies and case examples show dramatic impact: Getafe’s AI analytics halved its injury incidence. AI systems continuously monitor biomechanical and fatigue data, alerting coaches to adjust training loads and reduce strain. This keeps more athletes healthy and available, which is critical in Indian sports where player depth can be shallow.

  • Optimized Performance: Data-driven insights let coaches tailor training and recovery for each athlete. Wearables and AI reveal hidden weaknesses or imbalances, enabling targeted exercises. For example, if analytics detect a bowler’s elbow is under unusual stress, his schedule can be modified to prevent an arm injury. Personalized training plans improve efficiency – players train smarter, not just harder. As noted above, AI can spot “subtle changes in movement” signaling fatigue and trigger corrective measures.

  • Cost Savings: Preventing injuries saves substantial medical and rehabilitation costs. Research indicates high returns on prevention: one study in the U.S. found that every $1 invested in ACL injury prevention saved over $7 in treatment and rehab costs. Even a few fewer major injuries could save Indian sports bodies millions of rupees. These savings are especially important in grassroots and college sports, where medical budgets are limited.

  • Extended Athletic Careers: By avoiding repetitive overuse, athletes can sustain longer competitive careers. Early intervention on tendinitis or stress fractures means players avoid chronic issues. In India – where promising careers are often cut short by injury – this could mean more players reaching their full potential.

  • Enhanced Grassroots Development: Affordable tech (like Footrax’s devices) is democratizing performance data. Schools and academies can use wearables and apps to monitor budding athletes, instilling good training habits early. This builds a stronger talent pipeline, as young players learn injury avoidance from the start.

  • Overall Competitive Edge: At the elite level, staying injury-free translates to more consistent performances. Teams leveraging analytics can field their best lineups more often and reduce performance dips due to unfit players. In the high-stakes environment of professional leagues, even small fitness margins can affect win-loss records.

In summary, predictive injury tools hold great promise for Indian sports. By combining AI analytics, wearable sensors, and video analysis, training centers can shift from reactive injury treatment to proactive injury prevention. The evidence is compelling: clubs using these technologies see significantly fewer injuries and better player availability. At the same time, studies show prevention is far cheaper than a cure. For India’s athletes, from school teams to national squads, embracing injury



Link

Continue Reading

Technology

Sportradar expanding slot offering, deepening focus on Asian markets: Oscar Brodkin

Global sports technology firm Sportradar AG is charting new ground in the online sector, making use of its proprietary slot games and data-platform capabilities to meet growing market demand, including in Asia. Oscar Brodkin (pictured), Sportradar’s managing director for Asia Pacific, gave the insights in an interview with GGRAsia. He outlined the company’s strategic expansion […]

Published

on


Global sports technology firm Sportradar AG is charting new ground in the online sector, making use of its proprietary slot games and data-platform capabilities to meet growing market demand, including in Asia. Oscar Brodkin (pictured), Sportradar’s managing director for Asia Pacific, gave the insights in an interview with GGRAsia. He outlined the company’s strategic expansion in the online slot gaming segment, and the firm’s approach to the regional market.

Sportradar is known primarily for its sports data and trading services, collecting and analysing sports data for bookmakers, national and international sports federations, and media companies. The company is now turning its expertise toward digital gaming, namely casino games developed in-house.

“Traditionally, we didn’t do slots,” stated Mr Brodkin. “But we bought a company several years ago, and we have now integrated it into our Asia business development strategy.”

“The slot games we are making are taking off. We have about 40 of our own games now,” he added. He was speaking on the sidelines of SiGMA Asia 2025, a trade show and conference for the online gaming industry held earlier this month in the Philippine capital, Manila.

The company says its casino games – with a “mobile-first approach” – include “rich visuals and thrilling bonus features,” offering also customised themes to its clients.

Mr Brodkin noted: “If the Philippine market likes a specific type of slot, we have our own studio where we can make the game.”

“I’m quite proud of it because it’s not easy to get into the slots industry. We are starting to distribute it in Asia, which is a very competitive market,” he added.

The slot offering is described as a component of Sportradar’s strategy of diversification. The company has developed original games, including titles such as “Gold of Egypt”, a one-reel slot that Mr Brodkin said merges elements of crash-style games with classic slot mechanics.

“People are really enjoying this type of game,” said the executive, noting that the format reflected preferences for more interactive gameplay.

Mr Brodkin said the initial push would be done via existing slot games that have been successful in other markets, such as Europe. The company has been working to launch new titles developed specifically for Asian markets.

Sportradar’s slot offering “is already live with a licensed operator in the Philippines,” which the managing director said he could not identify by name.

Creating competitive slot content was no small task, observed Mr Brodkin. “It has to look perfect. You need to get to a place where people say: ‘it looks good, and I quite like playing it,” he explained. “It’s taken a long time to be able to compete with other companies in the market.”

A full-stack approach

Sportradar’s expansion is backed by what the group terms its end-to-end ecosystem that already supports major global sportsbook operators. The firm states that its approach spans the entire value chain, from user acquisition and marketing, to odds generation, platform integration, player retention, and data-driven personalisation.

“We offer betting solutions, media solutions, and sports performance analytics. Pretty much everything via our platform,” Mr Brodkin told GGRAsia. “There aren’t many companies in the world that do the whole value chain from start to finish.”

“We started off in the beginning with [compiling] pure data and the odds to go with that, but it [the business] has completely changed over the years,” noted Sportradar’s representative. “The bookmakers … now focus on marketing, live chat, and branding, and settling the payments, while we do everything else” on their behalf, he added.

The services include also developing customised platforms for Sportradar’s clients, as more services are outsourced, he explained.

According to Singapore-based Mr Brodkin, retention of customers “became massively important,” with a “need to give them the content they want, including bonusing at the right time”.

He added: “All of that is predictive, or as I like to call it, prescriptive. Artificial intelligence [AI] is prescriptive, telling you what to do.”

This infrastructure is being supported by tools such as Sportradar’s Managed Trading Services (MTS) framework, which allows the group’s clients to manage their sportsbook offering “with a range of integrated trading tools, analytics, and risk management features”. The MTS also supports the capability for operators to trade any third-party content, according to Sportradar.

Also central to the group’s ecosystem is “ad:s”, Sportradar’s marketing and advertising platform, which is said to use behavioural analytics to target specific player segments.

Last year, the company added digital audio channels to its “ad:s” offering, and extended its reach across ‘digital-out-of-home advertising’ – the latest generation of outdoor advertising screens.

“This enables betting operators to engage with more customers by serving relevant adverts via two of the fastest-growing media channels,” stated the firm.

“Alpha Odds” is another tool powering the group’s sportsbook offering: an AI-driven platform that the firm says “adapts to real-time liabilities, predicted changes, customer behaviour, and live market data,” helping to “increase turnover and boosts profit margins”.

In April, Sportradar announced that Alpha Odds was expanding to cover cricket.

Multifaceted strategy

Sportradar states that its approach to Asia is multifaceted, involving local partnerships, regulatory engagement, and targeted content development. The region’s diverse regulatory landscape presents both challenges and opportunities, but the company is confident in its ability to navigate it.

“We’ve grown from a pretty small business” in Asia, “to quite a large one,” stated Mr Brodkin. “We deal with licensed and regulated bookmakers, and we’ve taken on some massive projects. A big one was – two years ago – when we partnered with the Taiwan Sports Lottery.”

According to the executive, Sportradar also serves clients in Australia, in the Philippines, and is ready to make significant inroads into other jurisdictions.

“Asia is only partially regulated. So, when the rest come, we are nicely set up” to enter markets via use of “multiple languages, multiple product features,” Mr Brodkin told GGRAsia.

He added: “There’s been a lot of progress in laying the groundwork for legalisation across Asia. Some [jurisdictions] are going fast towards legalisation, and Thailand is definitely one, which is very encouraging.”

Mr Brodkin also highlighted Sri Lanka and India as markets to watch, though each country is advancing at its distinct pace.

The company’s Asia strategy also includes localised content development and third-party integration. The executive however said that Sportradar would “not develop odds” for every single sport, as that would “not be scalable”.

“What we’re starting to do is open up third-party odds. So, we let the professionals do their job and create the best odds, which we integrate within our platform, and distribute to our clients,” he explained.

Mr Brodkin added: “We are going to use third-party [providers] for some sports in Asia. You just have to know the trends, and … decide what are the right sports for the right customers in the right areas.”

The company aims to positioning itself as a one-stop provider for its clients. “We’ve studied and learned how Asia works,” Mr Brodkin concluded. “If someone wants to outsource their platform to us, we can do it with a personalised product.”



Link

Continue Reading

Technology

Gambling Trends in Gauteng for 2025

Gauteng’s gambling landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation in 2025. As South Africa’s economic powerhouse, the province is at the forefront of both sports betting and casino trends. Let’s explore how these two pillars of the industry compare, what’s driving their evolution, and what the future holds for gamblers and operators alike. The Growth Trajectory: […]

Published

on


Gauteng’s gambling landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation in 2025. As South Africa’s economic powerhouse, the province is at the forefront of both sports betting and casino trends. Let’s explore how these two pillars of the industry compare, what’s driving their evolution, and what the future holds for gamblers and operators alike.

The Growth Trajectory: Sports Betting Outpaces Casinos

Sports betting is the undisputed growth leader in Gauteng’s gambling sector. In 2024, sports betting accounted for about 61% of South Africa’s gross gaming revenue (GGR), while casinos contributed 29%1. This trend is even more pronounced in 2025, with sports betting continuing its explosive rise. The National Gambling Board projects betting to grow at over 20% annually between 2024 and 2027, while casino revenues are expected to remain flat.

This surge is driven by several factors:

  • Widespread smartphone adoption (over 70% penetration in South Africa)
  • The convenience and accessibility of online platforms
  • A strong sports culture, especially in football, rugby, cricket, and horse racing

Why Sports Betting is Booming in Gauteng

Gauteng is South Africa’s sports betting hub, thanks to its vibrant sports scene and a wide array of licensed betting outlets. Major operators like Hollywoodbets, World Sports Betting (WSB), and Supabets dominate the market, offering both retail and online options. Online sports betting, in particular, is experiencing rapid growth, with platforms enhancing their offerings through live streaming, in-play betting, and personalized promotions.

Technological Innovations Driving Sports Betting

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): Empowers bettors with data-driven insights and predictive analytics.
  • Blockchain: Ensures secure, transparent transactions, boosting user trust.
  • Virtual Reality (VR): Creates immersive experiences, making betting more engaging.

These advancements are making sports betting more interactive, secure, and appealing to a younger, tech-savvy audience.

The Casino Sector: Adapting to a Digital World

While sports betting thrives, Gauteng’s casino industry faces new challenges and opportunities. Traditional land-based casinos remain popular entertainment destinations, but they’re under pressure from the growing appeal of online gambling. Younger gamblers (ages 18–34) increasingly prefer the convenience and variety of online casino games, accessible anytime via mobile devices.

Online Casinos: Growth and Regulation

Online casinos are gaining traction, thanks to:

  • Seamless mobile gaming experiences
  • A broad selection of games, including slots and live dealer tables
  • Personalized gaming and AI-driven customer support

2025 marks a turning point for regulation. New laws, including the National Gambling Amendment Act, introduce a national licensing system, stricter operator audits, and enhanced player protection measures. These changes aim to create a safer, more transparent online gambling environment in Gauteng.

Land-Based Casinos: Reinventing the Experience

Physical casinos are not disappearing. Instead, they’re investing in luxury, live entertainment, and resort-style amenities to attract visitors. Operators like Tsogo Sun are upgrading venues such as Montecasino and Gold Reef City, focusing on delivering unique social and entertainment experiences that online platforms can’t replicate.

Economic Impact and Responsible Gambling

Gauteng’s gambling industry is a major economic contributor, generating nearly a quarter of South Africa’s gambling taxes and supporting thousands of jobs. Both sports betting and casinos are subject to rigorous regulation by the Gauteng Gambling Board, which enforces responsible gambling initiatives such as self-exclusion programs, awareness campaigns, and access to support services.

What’s Next? The Future of Gambling in Gauteng

Looking ahead, Gauteng’s gambling market will be defined by:

  • Continued dominance of sports betting, especially via mobile platforms
  • Growth in online casino participation, fueled by technology and regulatory clarity
  • A hybrid landscape where land-based casinos focus on entertainment, while online platforms cater to digital-first players

Emerging trends such as esports betting and VR casino games are set to further diversify the market, promising more engaging and personalized experiences for all types of gamblers.

Gaming Future

In 2025, Gauteng stands at the crossroads of tradition and innovation in gambling. Sports betting is surging ahead, powered by technology and cultural enthusiasm, while casinos both online and physical are adapting to shifting player preferences and new regulations. The result is a dynamic, competitive, and increasingly regulated market that offers something for every gambler, ensuring Gauteng’s place at the heart of South Africa’s gaming future.

Related: The Rise of Sports Betting in Gauteng: Bet Safely and Responsibly



    Link

    Continue Reading

    Technology

    Dr. Edward Zuckerberg Joins Katz & KO as Strategic Advisor

    ATLANTA, June 19, 2025–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Katz & KO, a venture acceleration platform operating and investing at the intersection of sports, performance, and emerging technologies, is proud to announce that Dr. Edward Zuckerberg has joined the firm as a strategic advisor. Dr. Zuckerberg—renowned dental technologist and early adopter of health tech innovations—brings decades of experience at the […]

    Published

    on


    ATLANTA, June 19, 2025–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Katz & KO, a venture acceleration platform operating and investing at the intersection of sports, performance, and emerging technologies, is proud to announce that Dr. Edward Zuckerberg has joined the firm as a strategic advisor.

    Dr. Zuckerberg—renowned dental technologist and early adopter of health tech innovations—brings decades of experience at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and patient experience. His unique lens will support Katz & KO and its affiliated investment arm, BrknPar Venture Fund, as they evaluate and support companies redefining health performance, recovery, and athlete longevity.

    “Dr. Zuckerberg embodies the kind of forward-thinking, cross-disciplinary expertise we value deeply,” said Andy Katz, Managing Partner of Katz & KO. “He’s not just an innovator in clinical practice—he understands how technology can transform outcomes, markets, and lives. As we expand our engagements and investments into health tech, sports medicine, and performance-driven care, Ed’s insights will be invaluable.”

    In this advisory role, Dr. Zuckerberg will provide strategic input on diligence and investment strategy related to health and performance technologies, and serve as a thought partner on select Katz & KO engagements. He joins a small, curated group of strategic advisors chosen for their impact, access, and alignment with the firm’s mission.

    “The work Katz & KO is doing sits at an exciting inflection point,” said Dr. Zuckerberg. “From enhancing athlete recovery to exploring dynamic digital health platforms, they’re investing where technology meets real human performance. I’m looking forward to collaborating with the team.”

    This announcement follows Katz & KO’s recent rebrand from VA2, marking its evolution into a bold, founder-first yet investor-friendly platform built to champion next-generation innovators. The “KO” is more than a nod to its Equity Partners – it’s a statement of purpose: to help founders knock out the obstacles that stand between vision and breakthrough.

    Dr. Zuckerberg is also proud of his family’s legacy of innovation. He and his wife raised four accomplished children, including Mark Zuckerberg, the founder and CEO of Meta. That spirit of innovation—rooted in curiosity, experimentation, and a drive to push boundaries continues to shape Dr. Zuckerberg’s work across advisory roles and entrepreneurial ventures.

    About Katz & KO

    Katz & KO is a venture platform dedicated to identifying and supporting category-defining businesses across sport technology. Through its advisory practice and affiliated investment fund, BrknPar Venture Fund, Katz & KO integrates capital deployment with operational expertise and strategic networks to drive sustainable growth, scalable impact, and long-term value creation for both founders and investors. Learn more at Katz & KO.



    Link

    Continue Reading

    Most Viewed Posts

    Trending