Google Cast is a new app which allows users to stream content from their smartphones and tablet computers to large displays wirelessly. It will change the face of at-home entertainment – but it will be quite some time before the service is available to online gaming operators. At the moment, Google Cast has implemented a strict ‘no gambling’ policy.
The policy applies to all forms of gambling, even those which employ a level of skill such as online poker. So, Google Cast cannot be used to develop or stream online casino games. The reason behind this policy is because Google does not want to the Cast to get involved in any sort of activity that is not universally legal, such as pornography, gambling and pirated content.
Gambling falls into this category because both online and land-based gambling are not legal in all countries around the world. While more and more politicians are warming up to the legalization of gambling, there are still many lawmakers that are against it. According to 4Flush, it seems to be the right decision for such a new technology.
Google Cast could certainly be used to abuse intellectual property, allowing users to pirate video games, movies and music. As such, Google wants to ensure that users are not able to do so. Employing a restrictive policy on development means that other types of activities which remain in a legal grey-area will be implicated, as well.
After Google Cast has been around for a while, the policy may allow for the development of apps which involve gambling – but, we understand that the service provider needs time to warm up to the idea. Online gambling was not widely accepted when it first appeared in the online consumer market, so the same will certainly apply for gambling on the Google Cast.
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