The first four online sportsbooks in New York have launched. A booming weekend of legal mobile betting followed.
But the question remains: When will the other five NY betting apps go live?
BetMGM, PointsBet, Bally Bet, WynnBet and Resorts World have yet to launch in the state. The hope has been that all five can be up and running before the Feb. 13 Super Bowl – perhaps by late January – but that may not be feasible.
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When will last five NY online sportsbooks launch?
The New York State Gaming Commission selected nine brands to offer legal online sports betting in New York. A week ago, four of those sportsbooks debuted — and did so with a bang.
As for the other five, the waiting game continues. Among other sportsbook-specific hurdles to clear, each operator must install mobile servers at one of the state’s four commercial casinos, servers that must pass inspection before their betting apps can launch.
BetMGM
There was surprise in the industry that, given its size and prominence, BetMGM was not included in the first wave with DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars and BetRivers. But BetMGM NY was described as “close” to launching in New York, according to a source familiar with the process.
Earlier this week, the company reiterated in a statement: “We’re working closely with the New York State Gaming Commission to get the BetMGM app live as soon as possible.”
Bally Bet
During its third-quarter earnings call, Bally’s indicated that it planned to release an updated app. Company executives also said on the call that they were going to release that new app in Arizona before any other state. And that still hasn’t happened.
It would be disappointing if Bally Bet NY missed out on some of the key mega-sporting events like the Super Bowl and March Madness. But an upgraded app sounds very promising for users.
PointsBet
The hope is for PointsBet New York to be live toward the end of January. But nothing is set in stone at this point, according to a source.
WynnBet
Through a spokesperson, WynnBet NY told PlayNY: “We will provide an update on our market launch plans at a later date.” So no news here.
Resorts World
Through a spokesperson, Resorts World told PlayNY:
“The decision to allow companies to quickly launch their mobile sports platforms is good news for the economy across the State of New York. Resorts World Bet, the mobile sports betting platform for Resorts World, is continuing to work toward approval from the Commission to commence mobile sports wagering as soon as possible. We are excited to launch in the near term and bring additional benefits to the people of New York State.”
Opportunities in NY moving forward
As reflected by GeoComply data, the sports betting numbers in New York have been massive. And these five sportsbooks must be somewhat disappointed by missing out on the initial wave of customer sign-ups.
But there is certainly still an opportunity. A strong promo or bonus offer – similar to, if not better than, Caesars’ – could lead customers to expand or switch the number of sports betting apps on their phones.
Of course, customers should shop around and take advantage of these offers. However, they should also always read the fine print when it comes to promotions.
