ATN spoke to ClassPass VP of Marketing Ivy Wu about why the workout has staying power
Pilates has earned the top spot on ClassPass as the most-booked workout for the second year in a row, with reservations surging 84% since 2023. To understand what’s fueling this growth and whether the trend has staying power, Athletech News turned to Ivy Wu, Vice President of Marketing at ClassPass.
“Pilates has maintained its position as the most-booked workout on ClassPass for two consecutive years and that’s no coincidence,” Wu said. “The surge in popularity aligns with a broader shift toward long-term health vs. high-intensity aesthetics.”
That shift reflects a change in consumer priorities. “According to Mindbody’s 2024 Wellness Index, 61% of participants said their primary motivation for working out is to live a healthier, longer life,” Wu noted. “Pilates fits that demand perfectly, emphasizing core stability, mobility and controlled movement—all while being low-impact.”
And once people try it, they tend to stick with it. “The ClassPass 2024 Look Back Report further highlights that Pilates was not only the most-booked workout of the year but also saw the highest repeat bookings, showing that once people try it, they’re hooked.”
Accessibility is another factor in Pilates’ widespread appeal. “It’s beginner-friendly, low-impact and accessible to all levels—whether you’re new to fitness (which most ClassPass users are), or getting back into it after a long break,” Wu said. “It’s a much easier initiation into the fitness world that’s not as intimidating as, say, a HIIT or boxing class.”
And while plenty of workouts can be done at home with minimal equipment, Pilates is a different story. “Most of us don’t have a Pilates reformer. People need to book classes to get their Pilates workouts in, which is likely a driving factor in its staying power,” Wu explained.
But accessibility alone doesn’t fully explain Pilates’ rise. Wu also pointed to the impact of social media. “Our 2024 Look Back Report shows just how much social media-driven aesthetics like the ‘Pilates Princess’ trend have fueled Pilates’ rise—bookings surged 84% from 2023, solidifying it as the most popular workout worldwide in 2024.”
Influencers have played a major role in transforming public perception. “They’ve reframed Pilates as more than just exercise; they’re spotlighting it as a complete mind-body reset,” said Wu. “While the trend is having its moment, the report also shows that Pilates had the most substantial year-over-year growth, proving it’s not just a fad but a powerful staple in fitness routines.”
There’s also the workout’s visual appeal. “Pilates lends itself to social media content: the low-impact nature lets influencers highlight the aesthetic parts of working out—the matching workout sets, the beautiful studios, the unique machines that some jokingly refer to as medieval torture devices,” Wu said.
ClassPass has also observed a trend dubbed “Men in Pilates.” Wu says, “The workouts are deceivingly difficult and social media loves playing into how humbling Pilates is for all genders and levels of fitness.”
Studios are evolving, too. “With the rise in popularity of Pilates classes, we’re increasingly seeing gyms and studios embrace the trend and adapt their classes to have a Pilates flavor, or add mat Pilates classes to their schedules,” Wu said.
See Also
Pilates offers something other workouts don’t: longevity, injury prevention and mental clarity. “Pilates stands out as a low-impact yet highly effective workout that emphasizes core stability, mobility and controlled movement—all crucial for longevity and injury prevention,” Wu said.
That mirrors broader trends toward accessible fitness. “Low-impact classes in general actually saw a huge 109% increase in reservations last year,” Wu said.
Pilates’ flexibility and ease of integration into the workday have also helped. “We offer a Corporate program to companies as a benefit to their employees and we see a lot of users take advantage of their lunch breaks to squeeze in a workout class as a mental or physical break,” she noted.
And it’s not just the body that benefits. “Pilates fosters a strong mind-body connection, which can be a powerful tool for managing stress and enhancing mental clarity,” Wu said. “This dual focus on physical and mental well-being makes it especially compelling for people seeking a more holistic fitness experience.”
Whether you’re sweating through a heated session at Practice Room in Noho, focusing on mindful movement at Holydog Pilates in Kips Bay, or taking a challenging class at Avea Pilates, it’s clear Pilates isn’t just trending, it’s changing the fitness landscape. And as Wu summed it up, “Once people try it, they’re hooked.”
Gambling Industry Trends and Predictions for 2026 – High-Stakes Forces Reshaping iGaming, Casinos, and Global Regulation
Gambling Industry Trends and Predictions for 2026
The global gambling industry enters 2026 on a rapid growth trajectory and at the cusp of transformative change. After reaching an estimated $99 billion in 2024, the global betting and gaming market is projected to nearly double by 2033 (approaching $182 billion) as digital platforms, mobile betting, and AI-driven innovations reshape how people gamble. This boom is fueled not only by technological leaps, but also by evolving consumer behaviors and shifting regulatory landscapes. By 2026, the industry will be more connected, data-driven, and consumer-focused than ever, blurring the line between gambling and broader digital entertainment.
Global Focus, Local Moves: North America and Europe currently dominate gambling revenue (about three-quarters of the market), but Asia-Pacific and Latin America are emerging as the next frontiers. In particular, Asia-Pacific’s liberalizing regulations, rising incomes, and mobile adoption are accelerating participation across the region. At the same time, the United States – which ignited a sports betting boom after 2018 – continues to expand state-by-state. Meanwhile, Europe’s mature markets are prioritizing sustainability and responsibility, and Latin America and Africa are opening up new opportunities. Across the world, stakeholders are “going all-in” on innovation and expansion, while bracing for greater oversight to ensure gambling grows safely.
In this outlook for 2026, we highlight the key trends shaping the iGaming (online gambling) sector and its convergence with traditional brick-and-mortar casinos. From new markets and regulations to tech breakthroughs and changing player expectations, the year ahead promises high stakes and big opportunities.
New Markets and Regulatory Shifts on the Horizon
Legalization Wave Continues
The map of regulated gambling is set to expand further in 2026. Several countries and jurisdictions are transitioning from gray markets to fully legal, competitive industries. Notably, Brazil – long considered a “sleeping giant” of gaming – is rolling out regulations for online sports betting and casino gaming, creating one of the world’s largest new markets. In Europe, Finland has decided to end its state monopoly and move toward a competitive licensing model by 2026, opening its lucrative market to private iGaming operators. These moves follow the trend of governments seeking tax revenue and consumer protection through licensing rather than prohibition.
United States Focus
In the U.S., the sports betting frenzy that spread to 35+ states is settling into a mature phase, but there are still holdouts and new opportunities. Major states like Texas and California remain unresolved – Texas lawmakers are weighing another push for sportsbooks (though realistically not before 2027) and California’s tribal vs. commercial interests make legalization challenging. Still, the pressure is mounting as Americans in nearly every region have gained access to legal betting.
Meanwhile, online casino gaming (iGaming) – currently legal in only seven states – is gaining traction. In 2025, multiple U.S. states saw legislative efforts to legalize online casinos, eyeing the success of pioneers like New Jersey, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. The record-breaking revenues reported by existing iGaming states underscore the opportunity: several markets have posted all-time monthly records, and year-over-year growth in iGaming has significantly outpaced growth in brick-and-mortar casinos. This momentum is likely to push more U.S. states to consider regulating online casinos in 2026 and beyond, especially as they watch neighbors reap tax windfalls.
Stricter Rules and Compliance
As new markets open, regulators everywhere are also tightening the rules in existing markets. Governments in major jurisdictions are introducing tougher measures for consumer protection, anti-money-laundering (AML), and advertising. The United Kingdom’s regulatory overhaul is a prime example – from stricter ad guidelines to potential online slot stake limits and affordability checks, UK operators face a more controlled environment. Other countries have gone so far as to heavily restrict or ban gambling advertising. Across Europe, compliance is king: the era of “grey area” operations is fading as authorities push operators to either go fully legal or get out.
In the U.S., regulators are aggressively enforcing rules to ensure a safe market. Several states have intensified enforcement against unlicensed platforms, increased cease-and-desist activity, and introduced new rule updates emphasizing tighter licensing standards, identity verification, AML protocols, and mandatory responsible gambling tools. This reflects a broader North American trend: as the online market matures, regulators are shifting from simply enabling new industries to rigorously policing them for compliance and strengthening player protections.
Tax and Policy Changes
Policymakers are also adjusting the financial rules around gambling. In the U.S., a notable change takes effect in 2026: recreational gamblers will lose a portion of their tax deductions on losses, with federal law capping deductible losses at 90% of winnings (down from 100%). This tax tweak may discourage some high-volume bettors or at least complicate their accounting. At the same time, U.S. reporting thresholds for certain jackpots have been modernized in recent years, reflecting a slow but steady effort to update outdated compliance burdens.
Overall, 2026’s regulatory landscape will be defined by expansion paired with vigilance: more markets opening up and more scrutiny to ensure gambling growth comes with strong consumer safeguards. Next, we look at one of the most intriguing regulatory battles brewing – the clash between traditional gambling operators and a new breed of betting platform known as prediction markets.
A major storyline heading into 2026 is the rise of prediction markets and their collision with traditional sports betting. Once a niche idea, prediction markets allow users to wager on practically any real-world outcome – from elections and economic indicators to pop culture outcomes – treating events like stocks to be traded. In the past two years, this segment expanded rapidly in the United States, blurring the line between gambling and financial trading. A growing roster of platforms has launched or gone mainstream, and major sports and gaming brands are experimenting with prediction-style products.
This flurry of innovation points to demand for new forms of interactive wagering. Younger bettors especially enjoy the stock-market-like experience of trading event outcomes, and volumes have surged across several platforms. These numbers have not gone unnoticed by the traditional gaming industry – or by its regulators.
Regulatory Crossfire
Prediction markets currently operate in a legal gray area in the U.S., often falling under federal commodities oversight rather than state gambling law. This has triggered backlash from established gambling stakeholders who argue these products resemble sports betting without the same level of licensing, consumer protection, and responsible gaming guardrails.
On the other side, prediction market companies and allied fintech firms are organizing and pushing for clearer frameworks that legitimize these markets nationwide. They argue that the legal system hasn’t kept pace with modern products, and that a patchwork of rules will create confusion and drive demand to offshore alternatives. The stage is set for a significant confrontation in 2026: federal regulators vs. state gaming authorities, and innovative platforms vs. incumbent casino and sportsbook ecosystems.
Why This Matters in 2026
Whether prediction markets are integrated into the regulated gaming system, restricted, or forced into separate lanes will shape everything from taxation and consumer protections to how sportsbooks innovate. The industry may be moving toward a reality where traditional operators either (1) partner into this category, (2) fight it aggressively, or (3) watch parts of wagering demand shift outside classic sportsbook rails. The outcome won’t just impact the U.S.; it will influence global regulators as they face similar fintech-gambling convergence pressures.
The Great Convergence: Merging iGaming with Brick-and-Mortar Casinos
The year 2026 will also highlight the convergence between online and land-based gambling, often dubbed the “omnichannel” approach. While online iGaming is booming, traditional physical casinos are not standing idle – many are leveraging technology and cross-platform strategies to stay relevant and connected to digital audiences. The central question for casino operators has become: How can we integrate the on-site casino experience with online play?
Omnichannel Strategies
Some forward-thinking casino companies are embracing hybrid innovations that turn brick-and-mortar resorts into content engines for digital channels. New live dealer concepts, broadcast-style casino content, and in-property studios are becoming a real strategy: they extend a casino brand beyond physical walls while turning on-site foot traffic into marketing reach.
Another critical driver of convergence is the integration of loyalty programs and currencies across channels. Big operators are linking loyalty points so that players earn and spend rewards whether they’re at a slot machine in Vegas or betting on an app at home. Increasingly, these rewards behave more like digital ecosystems than simple points programs. Over time, this may evolve toward a portable digital identity where engagement across sportsbook, casino, social gaming, and entertainment can be recognized and rewarded holistically.
Physical Casinos Go Digital
Brick-and-mortar casinos are also adopting more digital infrastructure: cashless wagering options, mobile wallets, app-driven player experiences, and increasing experimentation with biometrics for identity and loyalty recognition. These upgrades align with younger customers’ expectations and help casinos enhance operational efficiency while reducing certain fraud and compliance risks.
It’s worth noting that not all casino operators are on board. Some U.S. regional casino companies and tribal stakeholders remain cautious, citing cannibalization concerns and social impacts. Still, the broader revenue picture continues to pressure the industry toward convergence, especially as online channels deliver faster growth and higher scalability.
The “Phygital” Casino Experience
In 2026, expect to see more crossover initiatives that make gambling an anytime, anywhere activity. The convergence is also evident in content: casino games increasingly borrow features from video games (missions, rewards loops, community events), while physical casinos adopt attractions influenced by digital culture. For operators, the strategic advantage goes to whoever can unify experiences across platforms while respecting the regulatory and responsible gaming frameworks required in each market.
Tech Innovations: AI, Apps, and Immersive Betting
Technology has always been a driving force in iGaming, but heading into 2026, it’s clear the industry is entering another innovation cycle. Several tech trends are set to redefine how gambling products are built and how players engage:
Mobile 2.0 – Faster and More Immersive
Mobile betting is the primary channel for many consumers, and in 2026 mobile platforms are leveling up. Expect smoother UX, deeper personalization, more embedded live content, and early-stage applications of AR to create more immersive experiences. The smartphone is not just a portal to betting anymore; it’s becoming the interface layer for entertainment, payments, community, and identity.
Artificial Intelligence Everywhere
AI has moved from experimentation to operational core. It is now embedded in risk management, fraud detection, dynamic promotions, personalization, customer support, and even content generation. The next stage in 2026 is “industrialized AI”: measurable ROI, tighter governance, and clearer outcomes. In regulated markets, AI will increasingly be paired with compliance expectations – including systems designed to detect problem gambling behaviors earlier and deliver better interventions.
Fintech and Payments Innovation
Payments are becoming a strategic battleground. Open banking capabilities, faster payouts, improved fraud detection, and easier onboarding are changing player expectations. In parallel, crypto rails remain relevant, especially for international markets and certain user segments. For regulated operators, the key is not crypto hype, but crypto’s utility: faster settlement, transparent transaction trails, and optionality for global payments where traditional banking remains restrictive.
New Game Formats – eSports, Virtuals, and Microbets
New formats continue to expand the addressable audience. eSports betting is growing, virtual sports offer always-on wagering, and micro-betting is becoming a major engagement driver as operators refine the latency, data feeds, and in-play UX that this product demands. Major global sporting events in 2026 will likely accelerate micro-betting adoption as consumers learn to treat a match not as one bet, but as dozens of moment-to-moment decision points.
Gamification and Social Play
Gamification is now a baseline expectation in modern apps: missions, rewards, leaderboards, community challenges, and social layers that borrow heavily from video games. Meanwhile, streaming culture continues to collide with iGaming, as content creators, live casino formats, and interactive “watch and play” mechanics become more common acquisition channels. As these experiences scale, expect regulators to sharpen the rules around marketing, affiliate behavior, and ensuring responsible gaming protections extend into creator-led environments.
Cybersecurity and Reliability
As platforms scale, cybersecurity becomes existential. Attacks, phishing, and platform reliability issues can quickly damage trust. In 2026, regulators and major partners will increasingly treat security readiness and resilience as non-negotiable. Operators will invest further in multi-cloud uptime strategies, monitoring, and stronger identity protections to ensure stable, compliant operations at scale.
Responsible Gambling and the Social License
Amid all the growth and innovation, the industry in 2026 is putting a sharper focus on responsible gambling (RG). As gambling becomes more accessible digitally, the expectations rise: operators must prevent harm, regulators must protect consumers, and stakeholders must prove that industry growth can be sustainable.
Real-Time Intervention
One of the most important evolutions is the use of AI and behavioral analytics to detect harmful patterns earlier. Instead of relying solely on players to self-report or set limits, modern systems can identify risk signals and trigger interventions such as dynamic messaging, cooling-off prompts, or structured friction in the user journey.
Mandatory Measures and Culture Change
More jurisdictions are tightening requirements: deposit and time limits, self-exclusion enforcement, clear loss/win displays, enhanced KYC checks, and more robust proof-of-source-of-funds rules in higher-risk cases. The direction is clear: responsible gambling is no longer optional, and the companies that build it into product design will find it easier to keep market access, maintain brand trust, and partner with mainstream institutions.
The challenge is that responsible gambling messaging must be effective, not performative. Generic slogans are losing impact. The next phase is more personalized, contextual, and integrated into product design without creating a punitive experience for recreational users.
Conclusion: 2026 and Beyond – A High-Tech, High-Responsibility Future
The year 2026 is poised to be a pivotal chapter for iGaming and the casino industry, marked by convergence and innovation on one hand, and heightened responsibility and regulation on the other. We will see new markets expand, the U.S. inch closer to broader iGaming adoption, and regulators increasingly demand stronger safeguards as online access becomes ubiquitous.
India’s gaming industry is rapidly evolving into one of the largest and most dynamic markets in the world. Driven by the increasing adoption of smartphones, affordable internet, and a tech-savvy youth population, gaming is becoming a mainstream form of entertainment. With mobile gaming leading the charge, the India gaming market is also witnessing significant growth in esports, cloud gaming, and immersive technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).
Unlocking New Realms: The Evolution and Key Opportunities in India’s Gaming Sector
The gaming sector is transitioning from a specialized sector to a dynamic and swiftly growing market, fueled by the rising use of smartphones, accessible internet, and a young, tech-oriented demographic. The rise of mobile gaming is at the heart of this transformation, with millions of people in India engaging in gaming on their smartphones daily. With the nation’s gaming industry growing, a variety of gamers, covering mobile, console, and PC platforms, are shaping the industry. Quantifying this rapid expansion, the IMARC Group reported that the gaming market size in India reached USD 4.26 Billion in 2024.
The primary opportunities ahead are in the rising need for localized content, as developers are concentrating on designing games that connect with Indian cultural and regional tastes. This presents substantial potential to reach a broader audience, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Moreover, the growth of esports, cloud gaming, AR, and VR technologies offers new opportunities for expansion. With the growing investment and support from both the government and private sectors, there is significant potential to establish India as a worldwide center for gaming development and creativity.
With the market’s maturation, the advancement of monetization strategies, enhanced infrastructure, and stronger regulations will continue to contribute to the increase in India gaming market share, unlocking untapped potential and fostering global competitiveness.
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Game On: Current Trends and Market Drivers Shaping India’s Gaming Future
According to IMARC Group’s projections, the India gaming market is projected to grow at a CAGR of around 15.2% from 2025 to 2033, reaching USD 15.19 Billion by 2033. The growth will be supported by the following factors:
Smartphone and Internet Penetration
India’s increasing number of affordable smartphones, coupled with the expansion of high-speed internet access, is significantly broadening the market reach. As rural and non-metro areas gain improved connectivity, companies can target new user segments beyond urban centers. This growing accessibility enables casual, on-the-go gaming, contributing to a surge in user numbers and expanding the market. As of March 2024, India had 954.40 million total internet subscribers, with 398.35 million rural subscribers. Furthermore, by April 2024, 95.15% of India’s 644,131 villages were equipped with 3G/4G mobile connectivity, underscoring the increasing digital penetration across the country and creating vast opportunities for gaming expansion in rural areas.
The monetization models in the gaming market in India are evolving beyond basic in-app purchases. Traditional in-app purchases are being complemented by subscription models, cloud streaming, and cross-platform play, providing new revenue streams and catering to players seeking more flexibility and value. This shift allows gaming companies to offer premium experiences while enhancing player lifetime value. A prime example of this trend is Nvidia’s announcement in 2025 that its GeForce NOW cloud gaming service will launch in India, offering high-end gaming experiences on various devices. Premium members can access over 4,500 games, including popular titles like Borderlands 4 and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, solidifying cloud gaming’s potential in India.
Esports Partnerships and Innovation
A key factor driving the growth of the market is the increasing investment in esports partnerships and innovation. Realme’s collaboration with Krafton India as the official smartphone partner for the BattleGrounds Mobile Series (BGIS) 2025 and BGMI Pro Series (BMPS) 2025 highlights this trend. By using its GT 7 Pro for the tournaments, Realme is directly supporting both professional and grassroots players. This partnership not only boosts esports visibility but also strengthens the gaming ecosystem in India. As esports continues to gain traction, such collaborations enhance the gaming experience and contribute to market expansion.
Localized Product Offerings and Market Tailoring
The growing availability of localized products tailored to the needs of Indian gamers is positively influencing the market. Acer’s announcement in 2025 to launch “Make in India” gaming laptops is a prime example. By customizing its Aspire/ALG, Nitro, and Predator series for the Indian market, Acer is addressing the performance, pricing, and usage patterns unique to Indian gamers. This move not only supports the rising demand for gaming PCs across casual, competitive, and creator segments but also taps into the rising interest in AI-ready devices, contributing to the rapid expansion of India’s gaming ecosystem.
The rise of accelerator programs and funding initiatives is helping local developers access advanced technology, mentorship, and global networks. The adoption of AI tools is particularly transformative, enhancing game development, player experiences, and monetization strategies. These AI-driven innovations improve gameplay mechanics, automate processes, and offer personalized content, making Indian games more competitive globally. A prime example is Meta’s India-focused Gaming Accelerator, launched in 2025, which supports 20–30 emerging studios with AI tools like Llama, along with mentorship and investor access to scale their games for global markets.
The Game Plan: Conquering Challenges and Unlocking New Opportunities
The Indian gaming industry encounters challenges like regulatory ambiguity, with many states lacking clear rules for online gaming, creating confusion for developers and players. The country’s vast and diverse population also requires significant investment in localization and culturally relevant content. Additionally, piracy and data security concerns remain persistent threats.
Despite these obstacles, the rapid increase in internet access and smartphone adoption, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, presents a large untapped market. Mobile gaming is becoming popular because of affordable smartphones and data plans, while localization offers a chance to engage diverse user bases. The growing momentum of the India Mobile Gaming Market further highlights how digital engagement is expanding across demographic groups. Esports and online competitions are also gaining traction, creating new opportunities for competitive gaming and sponsorships.
Masters of the Game: Who’s Leading India’s Gaming Industry
Major figures in the market are progressively concentrating on broadening their reach and enhancing user interaction by utilizing mobile-first approaches and integrating localized content. These firms are focusing on creating games that align with local tastes, providing content in various languages and crafting gameplay that reflects India’s rich cultural diversity. Numerous developers are investigating fresh monetization strategies, such as in-app purchases, subscription models, and live events, while incorporating social and multiplayer elements to promote community engagement. To remain competitive, they are significantly investing in technology like AI and cloud gaming to improve user experiences and provide smooth cross-platform play. Directly illustrating the investment in technology like cloud gaming to improve user experiences and provide smooth cross-platform play, Xbox launched cloud gaming in India for Game Pass subscribers in 2025, allowing high-end games to stream on mobiles, tablets, and PCs.
The Game Changers: How Investment and Government Support Are Elevating the Gaming Sector
The gaming market in India is influenced by government-backed initiatives and a clear regulatory framework that foster innovation and growth. These programs support game design, development, and talent, attracting both local and global investments. The regulatory system ensures fair practices and transparency, building market trust and safeguarding user interests.
Government-backed programs are essential in driving innovation and creating a vibrant gaming ecosystem in India. By supporting game design, development, and talent nurturing, these initiatives provide infrastructure, networking, and industry collaboration that attract both local and global investments. They also focus on cultivating local talent, ensuring the sector’s sustainability and competitiveness. The government’s commitment is evident in major initiatives like the Create in India Challenge and the AVGC-XR Mission, launched in 2025, which aim to foster original creation and collaboration across gaming, animation, VFX, and immersive technologies. These efforts strengthen India’s creative economy and position the country as a global hub for AVGC-XR innovation.
A coherent regulatory system is vital for driving the gaming market in India. By establishing clear rules and categories for different game types, such as esports and online gaming, the framework ensures transparency and fair practices, fostering trust among investors and participants. This organized approach enhances market security for both developers and users, promoting sustainable growth. In 2025, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) addressed the need for such a framework with the release of the Draft Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Rules under the PROG Act. This created India’s first unified framework, with the Online Gaming Authority overseeing compliance, classification, and registration.
Leveling Up: IMARC’s Playbook for Navigating India’s Thriving Gaming Market
IMARC Group empowers stakeholders in India’s gaming industry with data-driven insights to succeed in one of the world’s fastest-growing entertainment markets. Our research and consulting services help clients identify untapped opportunities, navigate market uncertainties, and drive innovation in game design, marketing, and retail strategy.
Market Insights: Track trends shaping India’s gaming market, including the rise in mobile gaming, increasing demand for esports, and the growing popularity of educational and strategy-based games. We also explore the emergence of local developers and the expanding gaming ecosystem.
Strategic Forecasting: Predict future developments in the integration of digital and physical gaming experiences, the growth of online gaming platforms, evolving user preferences, and the impact of regional content and culturally relevant game narratives.
Competitive Intelligence: Analyze strategies and offerings from leading game publishers and emerging startups, including how they are redefining gaming experiences with local themes, storytelling, and sustainable production practices.
Policy and Regulatory Analysis: Understand trade regulations, intellectual property protection, licensing, and safety compliance standards crucial to the production and distribution of games in India.
Tailored Consulting Solutions: Benefit from customized advice on market entry strategies, distribution models, branding, and game localization. IMARC’s expertise supports businesses in developing scalable, client-centric growth strategies in an expanding gaming ecosystem.
The importance of fast technology approvals by the New Nevada Gaming Board Chairman, set against a modern casino and digital technology backdrop.
The New Nevada Gaming Board Chairman knows the importance of getting technology OK’d quickly, signaling a clear focus on modernizing how gaming innovations move from development to casino floors. This approach reflects an understanding that technology now plays a central role in the gaming industry and that regulatory systems must evolve to keep Nevada competitive while maintaining its high standards.
New Chairman Knows the Importance of Approving Technology
Gaming technology is advancing at a rapid pace, from new slot machine platforms to cashless systems and enhanced security tools. When approvals take too long, Nevada risks seeing new products debut elsewhere first. The New Nevada Gaming Board Chairman knows the importance of getting technology approved quickly because delays can affect manufacturers, casino operators, and ultimately the state’s position as a leader in regulated gaming.
Industry Experience Shaping Regulatory Priorities
Leadership matters in regulatory agencies, especially in industries as complex as gaming. The new chairman brings experience that bridges regulation and technology, offering insight into how long approval timelines can impact innovation. This background helps explain why the New Nevada Gaming Board Chairman knows the importance of getting technology OK’d quickly, not as a shortcut, but as a way to make processes more efficient and predictable.
How Faster Approvals Benefit Nevada’s Gaming Industry
Timely technology approvals help casinos remain competitive and allow players to experience the latest advancements sooner. When Nevada can approve new gaming systems without unnecessary delays, it strengthens relationships with manufacturers and reinforces the state’s reputation as the global standard for gaming regulation.
Maintaining Integrity While Moving Faster
Speed does not mean sacrificing oversight. Nevada’s gaming regulators are still responsible for ensuring fairness, security, and compliance. The emphasis is on refining internal processes, improving communication, and reducing bottlenecks. This balanced approach explains why the Nevada Gaming Board Chairman knows the importance of getting technology approved quickly while continuing to uphold strict regulatory safeguards.
What This Means for the Future of Gaming Regulation
Looking ahead, a more responsive approval process could encourage greater innovation within Nevada’s gaming sector. Developers may be more inclined to launch new technologies in the state, and operators can adapt more quickly to player expectations.
By aligning regulatory efficiency with technological progress, Nevada positions itself to remain both a trusted regulator and an innovation-friendly environment in an increasingly competitive global gaming market.
Looking for Legal Guidance in Gaming?
If you follow SCCG content and have inquiries about your gaming business, connect with Lazarus Crystal Law Firm—formed by SCCG Management and Lazarus Legal to unite top-tier gaming law with commercialization and market-entry strategy.
Our Areas of Expertise Include: • Nevada and multi-state gaming licensing • Regulatory compliance and audit services • International market entry and cross-border advisory • Gaming M&A legal due diligence • Tribal gaming legal and strategic support • iGaming and sports betting regulatory guidance
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Samsung Electronics has unveiled its new most advanced Odyssey gaming monitor lineup. The lineup includes five new models that push the boundaries of resolution, refresh rates, and immersive visual performance.
Led by Samsung’s first 6K 3D Odyssey G9, the 2026 lineup debuts world-first display technologies for gamers and creators, including the next-generation Odyssey G6 and three new Odyssey G8 models.
First 6K glasses-free 3D monitor
“With this year’s Odyssey lineup, we’re introducing display experiences that simply weren’t possible even a year ago,” said Hun Lee, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display (VD) Business at Samsung Electronics.
“From the industry’s first 6K glasses-free 3D monitor to breakthrough 1,040Hz speed, we designed these monitors to meet the ambitions of today’s gamers and deliver a level of immersion that fundamentally changes how content looks and functions on screen.”
The 32-inch Odyssey 3D (G90XH model) debuts the world’s first 6K display with glasses-free 3D, introducing a new way to experience games on a monitor. Powered by real-time eye tracking, it adjusts depth and perspective in response to the viewer’s position, creating a layered sense of dimension for smooth, uninterrupted gameplay without the need for a headset, according to a press release.
PC gamers can enjoy high-quality expanded lineup
With 6K resolution, a 165Hz refresh rate boosted to 330Hz through Dual Mode, and 1ms response time, fast action stays sharp and smooth, according to Samsung.
The company claims that PC gamers can enjoy a high-quality expanded lineup of supported titles with optimized 3D effects developed in collaboration with game studios. Featured games such as The First Berserker: Khazan, Lies of P: Overture, and Stellar Blade will offer added dimensionality, enhancing terrain, distance, and object separation beyond standard 2D gameplay.
The South Korean company has also highlighted that the 27-inch Odyssey G6 (G60H model) gaming monitor advances competitive gaming with the world’s first 1,040Hz gaming monitor through Dual Mode and native QHD support up to 600Hz, delivering esports-level motion clarity to help players track targets and see fine details during high-speed movement.
When needed, the Odyssey G6 can boost performance in an instant, providing ultra-sharp resolution so viewers can experience breathtaking worlds and ultra-high speeds that fuel competitive adrenaline. With support from both AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-Sync Compatible, the Odyssey G6 ensures that every frame is smooth, every color pops, and every moment feels responsive.
The Odyssey G8 series is expanding in 2026 with three distinct models, each offering a different balance of resolution and speed. Leading the lineup, the 32-inch Odyssey G8 (G80HS model), the industry’s first 6K gaming monitor, delivers native 165Hz performance with Dual Mode that supports up to 330Hz in 3K mode.
The 27-inch Odyssey G8 (G80HF model) offers a sharper 5K option with native support up to 180Hz, and Dual Mode boosts to 360Hz in QHD for smoother motion.
For users who want deeper contrast, the 32-inch Odyssey OLED G8 (G80SH model) pairs a 4K QD-OLED panel with a 240Hz refresh rate, Glare Free viewing, 300-nit brightness, and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification. Its DisplayPort 2.1 (UHBR20) supports up to 80 Gbps of bandwidth for seamless HDR and VRR playback, according to Samsung.
The complete Odyssey 2026 lineup will be on display at CES 2026 in Las Vegas from January 6-9.
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Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 Rewrites the Playbook for Sports with Phygital Innovation
Published on
December 25, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
The Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 have closed an unforgettable chapter in the evolution of phygital sports. Hosted under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, the event marked an unparalleled fusion of physical and digital competition. Over six action-packed days, Abu Dhabi hosted more than 850 participants from 60+ countries, with fierce battles across 11 disciplines including Phygital Football, Phygital Basketball, esports, Phygital Fighting, drone racing, and VR gaming.
Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 was not just a sporting event; it was a vision of the future. It set a global standard for what sports can look like in the digital age, where technology and human skill come together to create immersive and multi-dimensional experiences. The competition showed the world that the future of sports isn’t confined to a physical arena, but seamlessly integrates both the physical and digital.
The Champions of Tomorrow: Phygital Sports Takes Centre Stage
The Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 featured 11 disciplines that blended traditional sports with futuristic technologies, including Phygital Football, Phygital Basketball, esports, Phygital Fighting, and Phygital Shooter. These unique formats tested competitors in both the physical and digital realms. For example, Phygital Football powered by ADNOC saw the México Quetzales – Armadillos FC clinch the Phygital Football title, defeating Troncos FC 2-4 in a thrilling final that captivated crowds throughout the week. Likewise, in Phygital Basketball, the LIGA PRO TEAM triumphed in a 29-23 victory over Moscowsky.
Other high-stakes competitions included Phygital Fighting.FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves, where Kuznya dominated, winning all four of their matches. Meanwhile, xGoat emerged victorious in the Phygital Shooter.CS 2 final, overcoming Dontsu Esports 2-0 in an intense digital shootout.
In the drone racing category, Drone Racing One wowed spectators by completing 50 laps of a challenging circuit, showcasing the high-tech thrill of phygital racing.
A Digital Revolution: The Rise of VR Gaming and Esports
Beyond traditional sports, Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 brought esports and VR gaming into the spotlight. The esports events featured top teams and intense matches across a variety of games, including MOBA Mobile.MLBB and MOBA PC.Dota 2. In a thrilling final, ONIC defeated Aurora Gaming in the Mobile.MLBB championship, while teamWin overcame Vikings 2-0 in Dota 2.
The Battle Royale tournament, featuring Fortnite, saw Kami + Swizzy crush their opponents ZYRO + RAPID in the final. In VR gaming, the HADO competition proved to be one of the most exciting events, where Team Rock claimed the victory.
The digital revolution didn’t stop there—Phygital Dancing.Just Dance was an engaging crowd favorite, with Ivan “myakekcya” Vlasov taking home the crown. These events proved that esports and VR gaming are no longer just niche interests but are now integral parts of mainstream competition.
The Future is Phygital: Tech and Sport in Perfect Harmony
Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 perfectly illustrated how technology and sports are converging to form an entirely new ecosystem. With events such as Phygital Football, Phygital Basketball, and drone racing, the Games were a showcase of the groundbreaking possibilities that arise when sports embrace digital innovations. Technology was not merely an accessory at this event—it was the cornerstone upon which the competitions were built.
With immersive experiences that brought together digital avatars, VR environments, and physical action, the event revealed a new way of experiencing and consuming sports. It also showcased how athletes and fans alike can now engage with sports in ways that were unimaginable just a decade ago.
Abu Dhabi Leads the Way: A Global Hub for Next-Generation Sports
As the host city, Abu Dhabi solidified its position as a global leader in the future of sports. This landmark event wasn’t just about showcasing phygital sports, but also about demonstrating the UAE’s commitment to innovation and technology. The event was a triumph of vision, execution, and global collaboration, bringing together athletes, clubs, and partners from around the world.
In his remarks, Saif Al Noaimi, CEO of Ethara, remarked on the complexity of delivering an event on such a grand scale: “Delivering an event of this scale and complexity required close coordination across multiple disciplines, venues, and partners. The Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 showcased competitive excellence, but also operational innovation and audience engagement at the highest level.”
Similarly, Nis Hatt, CEO of Phygital International, praised the event’s impact: “What we saw over six days was not just competition, but the emergence of a global ecosystem where sport, esports, technology, and innovation coexist on one stage. Abu Dhabi set a new benchmark for scale, delivery, and ambition.”
A Glimpse into the Future: The Global Impact of Phygital Sports
The success of Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 is not just about the event itself. It signals a transformative shift in how we view and experience sports in the 21st century. By embracing phygital sports, the UAE is not just shaping the future of competition, but also setting the stage for the next generation of athletes, fans, and sports industries.
The Phygital Sports Summit, which took place during the event, provided a platform for discussing the future of sports, technology, and innovation. The summit brought together industry leaders, athletes, and tech visionaries to discuss the convergence of physical and digital realms. The dialogue held here will help define the future trajectory of phygital sports and shape the policies that govern it.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Phygital Sports is Now
The Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 wasn’t just a flash in the pan; it was a statement. The event demonstrated how sports and technology can work in harmony, paving the way for the next generation of competition. As Abu Dhabi continues to innovate and lead the way in phygital sports, the rest of the world is watching closely, eager to follow in the footsteps of this global hub for next-generation sports and entertainment.
As Stephane Timpano, CEO of ASPIRE, pointed out, “The success of this edition shows what is possible when vision, technology, and execution align.” The Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 will undoubtedly serve as a springboard for even bigger, more ambitious events in the years to come, setting a new standard for what’s possible in the world of sports.
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