Weaknesses galore identified in sector’s adoption of AI, especially by legacy casinos

A survey commissioned by the UNLV International Gaming Institute AI Research Hub and KPMG has revealed the rapid adoption of AI in the industry as well as the focus of AI-related publications.

The global gambling industry is racing to integrate artificial intelligence into its operations, but a glaring lack of safety controls and regulatory oversight is leaving the high-stakes sector severely exposed.

A new UNLV report on artificial intelligence in the gaming industry says one in five companies have a dedicated AI governance role, and most organizations have no established governance practices.

Research has uncovered a “disconnect” between igaming companies’ AI governance and data privacy concerns and their commitment to creating the structures and dedicated roles to oversee the technology.

Japan’s Angel Group Co Ltd, a specialist in playing card manufacturing and ‘smart’ gaming tables, has been assessed as leading a global top-10 list of firms – all technology suppliers – granted artificial intelligence (AI)-related patents in gaming.

Artificial intelligence activity in gaming is being driven primarily by technology suppliers rather than operators, according to a new report from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The study also shows the United States dominating AI-related gaming patent filings, while companies such as Angel Group, IGT, and Light & Wonder lead the field in granted patents and citations.

Betting apps that take wagers on everything from sports to what public officials might say next have become increasingly popular. But online "prediction markets" are getting pushback from Nevada and Arizona.

In what is targeted to be an annually updated report, the UNLV International Gaming Institute published its first research on the use of artificial intelligence and says while most companies have no governance practices, others are in the early stages of development.

Las Vegas has hosted major sports events for decades, from boxing championships to Formula One racing in the early 1980s. But 10 years ago, the city made a decision that reshaped its sports and entertainment identity: building T-Mobile Arena.

The report draws insights from 83 gambling companies and 113 regulators worldwide, a 15-year analysis of academic publications, and patent filing data and expert contributions.​

New study provides benchmarks as gambling sector navigates responsible AI integration.