Shit is about to pick up in Philly.
Pennsylvania now has online sports betting, meaning Philly fans on both sides of the river can get in on the action.
But the rollout of online betting in PA has not been a smooth one. First it was the state regulators who took a while to approve sports betting sites. And then it was an Apple App Store issue preventing apps from being available.
But now with the launch of FanDuel Sportsbook in PA, which is available as an iOS app, we’re starting to see some traction.
So as someone who has followed the developments in the legal betting space for a year now, here’s what you need to know about how to get in on the action now and what’s coming in the futures.
What’s live?
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SugarHouse
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BetRivers (sister site to SugarHouse)
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Parx
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FanDuel
Which apps are available on Android?
All of them. I’m not a mongrel and don’t use an Android, but if I did I’d know what “direct download” means— basically, the Google Play Store doesn’t allow gambling apps, so you have to just download the apps yourself like the uncultured dolt you are.
iPhone?
SugarHouse and Bet Rivers are both available on iOS, but only on the mobile web. They have to re-code their app for the App Store. The workaround involves downloading a third-party geolocation tool. It’s inelegant, but it works.
FanDuel Sportsbook— it’s the same app that’s available in New Jersey, which is impressive.
What’s next?
Notice I didn’t mention DraftKings Sportsbook in PA?
They desperately want to enter the market, but they’re going to have to find a casino partner to do it. There are only about four left that are not committed. However, rumor has it they plan to be in the market by the start of football season.
This is a big deal as it is them and FanDuel as the leaders in New Jersey. DraftKings will also feature an online casino in its app.
Ever hear of BetStars? Probably not.
Ever hear of FOX Sports?
The latter bought a 5% stake in The Stars Group, owners of BetStars, to re-name its app in New Jersey (and soon PA) to FOX Bet. This alone, along with mentions of it and its free-to-play companion app in other states, will make it a major name in sports betting in PA and elsewhere. It’s unclear if it will launch before the start of football season.
Down the line: Unibet, Harrah’s, BetAmerica, Hollywood Casino.
That’s it for now.
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