Recent studies have shown that the online gaming industry throughout India is experiencing a meteoric rise in popularity. There are several reasons behind this observation. Not only are there more available games than ever before, but nationally recognised providers such as Comeon India have become highly focused upon creating a seamless user experience (UX).
However, there is another important factor which should not be overlooked. This involves the presence of 5G wireless connectivity in major metropolitan sectors. What role will 5G Internet play in the online gaming community? How will this type of communication transform the entire sector? When will it become universally available? All of these questions warrant further discussion.
5G: All About Speed and Bandwidth
Perhaps the most impressive takeaway point is the fact that 5G communications are capable of supporting data transfer rates of up to 20 gigabytes per second. This is markedly faster than current services such as standard 4G Internet.
Increased speed equates to the ability to send more information at any given time. This will enable games to become even more advanced and lifelike; two qualities which continue to attract Indian players from all walks of life. 5G likewise employs a much wider bandwidth and it is for this reason that some experts feel that its current speeds can even be augmented in the near future. In terms of online entertainment, there is no doubt that fast and reliable Internet connectivity is crucial.
The Games Themselves
So, how will the presence of AI serve to transform the entire gaming experience? We have already seen that an increase in data transmission rates will enable games to become more advanced. However, their overall immersive quality is likely to be noticed more by the average player. Not only will platforms offer more personalised options, but the role of artificial intelligence (AI) is predicted to play an important part.
AI allows games to become more responsive, adaptive and immersive. This may also lead to the presence of augmented reality; allowing players to literally create their own digital environments from scratch. Such realism would have hardly been possible in the past. While these concepts are still in their infancy, there is no doubt that their presence will be felt.
Watch and Wait
The only question remaining involves when we can expect 5G to enjoy a ubiquitous presence throughout India. While it is already being felt in some cities, the chances are high that more rural locations will have to be slightly patient. Some industry executives believe that 5G will not be entirely rolled out until the latter half of 2023. Although this may appear to be a long time to wait, we need to recognise the benefits that all players will be able to subsequently enjoy.
From novice gamers to die-hard fans who have been registered with a specific online portal for years, the digital future does indeed look bright. Concepts which appeared at one time to be entirely fictional are quickly becoming reality.
Disclaimer:
- As per the Public Gambling Act of 1867, all Indian states, except Goa, Daman and Sikkim, prohibit gambling
- Land-based casinos are legalized, with certain guidelines, in Goa and Daman, as per the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act 1976
- Land-based casinos, Online gambling and E-gaming (games of chance) are legalized in Sikkim under the Sikkim Online Gaming (Regulation) Rules 2009
- Only some Indian states have legalized online/regular lotteries as per and subject to the conditions laid down by state laws. Kindly refer to the same here
- Horse racing and betting on horse racing, including online betting, is permitted only in a licensed premise in select states. Kindly refer to the 1996 Judgement by the Supreme Court Of India here and for more information
- This article does not endorse or express the views of Qrius and/or any of its staff.