Playtech Partners with UNLV to Promote Responsible Gambling Through AI
Playtech has announced a multi-year collaboration with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), aimed at using technology to foster a more sustainable gambling environment. The partnership will focus on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to support safer gambling practices, enhancing player protection.
A Shared Mission
The collaboration will see Playtech working closely with UNLV’s International Gaming Institute (IGI), which has been at the forefront of gambling research and education since its founding in 1994.
Together, the two entities aim to combine their expertise to address key issues in the gaming industry, particularly how technology can be used to reduce gambling-related harm.
Kasra Ghaharian, PhD, Director of Research at UNLV IGI, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting the importance of AI in promoting safer gambling behaviors globally.
“Playtech’s dedication to reducing gambling-related harm aligns with our own goals of employing the most advanced methodologies to understand, predict, and prevent potential gambling harm,” Ghaharian said.
Focus on AI-Driven Solutions
As part of the collaboration, Playtech has committed funding to a project that will explore the use of AI to train chatbots designed to encourage safer gambling behaviors, particularly among sports bettors.
Brett Abarbanel, PhD, Executive Director at UNLV IGI, highlighted the significance of this partnership, emphasizing that working with Playtech across various education, innovation, and research programs will contribute to a stronger and more sustainable gambling industry.
The project is also linked to IGI’s Center for Gaming Innovation, where Playtech supports internships through the Gaming Manufacturing Internship Program, further expanding opportunities for research and development in responsible gambling.
A Broader Impact on the Industry
Jonathan Doubilet, VP of US Business Operations at Playtech, reinforced the company’s commitment to responsible gambling through its collaboration with UNLV.
“Supporting their cutting-edge research, to lead the way in developing innovative solutions to enhance player protection and promote safer gambling behaviors, is a priority for us,” Doubilet stated.
This partnership reflects Playtech’s broader mission of using technology to address challenges in the gambling industry.
The company’s recent financial report for H1 2024 showed strong growth driven by its B2B operations, with expectations that it will meet its FY 2024 adjusted EBITDA targets.
However, the collaboration with UNLV demonstrates Playtech’s focus on balancing growth with responsible gambling initiatives.
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