The expansion of mobile gaming is a noteworthy feat thanks to the miniaturization of games and the advancements of technology. In Australia alone, the mobile gaming market has been estimated to be valued at 1.69 billion AUD in 2023.
The advent of smartphone technology has led to Android and iOS users in Australia eagerly anticipating new game releases and emerging gaming trends. However, despite both operating systems being fully equipped to support cutting-edge games, the ongoing comparisons between them remain ever-present.
As such, it is in this article where we will settle the debate as to which mobile operating system performs better when it comes to mobile gaming in the Australian landscape.
Mobile Gaming Landscape in Australia
The Australian mobile gaming market boasts a different kind of robustness due to advancements of technology it consistently adopts. Accordingly, it is expected to even grow more and is projected to reach a market size estimated to reach at 2.55 billion AUD by 2032.
As smartphone penetration continues to rise, mobile gaming has thereby become an integral part of the entertainment culture for many Australians. This vibrant landscape is set to expand further, with the advancements in mobile technology and interconnectivity paving the way.
Yet, despite how big mobile gaming has become in Australia, only two operating systems still dominate the market: Android and iOS.
Game Availability
When it comes to the type of mobile games often enjoyed by Aussies, it is usually led by action or adventure games, sports and role-playing games, and casino games regardless of the type of mobile operating system.
However, despite the categorization of games often enjoyed by Aussies, statistics show that preference is leaning more towards casino gaming. Aussies are increasingly turning to online casinos for entertainment driven by its convenience and flexibility.
For Android users, they tend to favor casino gaming apps like online table games such as poker and blackjack and online pokies to win real money as well as other variations of slots. This preference is mainly driven by the fact that these types of games provide a broader selection that allows gamers to enjoy different varieties of it with diverse features and in diverse themes.
On the other hand, iOS users do not have particular preference as to the type of casino games to play, rather they prioritize quality over quantity considering that the iOS App store is known for its stringent approval process. This means that Australian iOS users only have limited choices of casino games to choose from.
Engagement Levels
With the convenience and flexibility smartphones bring, people have been adopting a digital lifestyle therefore, it is only reasonable that Aussies often spend more time on their smartphones especially when it comes to entertainment.
While recent statistics show that smartphones with iOS mobile operating systems are more preferred by Aussies, Android users tend to have longer gaming sessions per visit as compared to iOS users. This may be attributed to the fact that there is a more diverse range of gaming apps available on the Google Play Store as compared to the iOS app store.
Spending Habits
As to spending habits, Australian iOS users show a propensity of spending more on casino games as compared to Android users who are more inclined to choosing free-to-play casino games on their smartphones.
For Australians who are Android users, they are categorized as casual gamers that make incremental in-game purchases showing hesitancy in making significant financial commitment on mobile casino games. On the other hand, iOS users are more willing to invest on in-game purchases which often include high-value items or exclusive content that enhance their casino gaming experience.
Which is More Preferred: Android vs. iOS?
The casino gaming landscape of Australia presents a fascinating dichotomy between Android and iOS users.
Although recent statistics show that there are more Australians using smartphones with iOS mobile operating system as compared to Android operating system, this does not translate to the fact that there are more iOS users that are into casino gaming as compared to Android users. As such, it is necessary to take into consideration the different factors such as game availability, users’ spending habits, and engagement levels.
Understanding these gaming trends is crucial for developers in order to efficiently tailor their offerings according to the Aussie population’s preference and habits. By recognizing these trends, the casino gaming industry in Australia can better cater to its audience, ensuring continued user satisfaction with relevant and engaging casino games that meets the diverse needs of the Australian gaming population.
