With competition looming, AGLC rolls out new app for Play Alberta sportsbook

Wednesday, October 9, 2024 8:30 PM
Photo:  By All-Pro Reels - https://www.flickr.com/photos/joeglo/51860262833/, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=114951241
  • Mark Keast, CDC Gaming

Alberta Gaming, Lottery and Cannabis announced Wednesday that its official app for the Play Alberta sports betting platform is now available for download on Apple and Android devices. The new app will be rolled out in phases, with this first phase including the sports-betting features currently available at PlayAlberta.ca.

The app will offer betting on more than 50 sports and leagues, including the NHL, NFL, CFL, NBA, and MLB.

The new app is the latest bit of news for the AGLC, looking to capitalize on buzz surrounding the Edmonton Oilers, currently the favorite to win the Stanley Cup at many sportsbooks. In September, AGLC announced an extension of its sponsorship agreement between the Oilers and Play Alberta.

The Alberta igaming market will soon be expanding, with some of the larger private operators about to enter the market and compete with the crown corporation. Play Alberta is currently the only place Albertans can go to bet legally on sports.

According to Dan Keene, Vice President, Gaming, AGLC, when regulated competition comes, AGLC and Play Alberta will be in a stronger competitive position.

The second phase of the app rollout, expected in the first half of 2025, will feature casino, lottery, instants, and live-dealer products.

Responsible-gambling features like GameSense and Self-Exclusion programs will be front and center as well.

“Mobile sports betting continues to evolve for Play Alberta with our new app, available to Apple and Android users, that optimizes their experience while accessing our product. In addition to unique, Alberta-based markets, the app gives bettors added security when signing up and using the platform, knowing that their personal and financial information are safe,” said Steve Lautischer, Executive Vice President, Business Development, AGLC.

The AGLC said in a statement that banking transactions via the new app will be “seamless,” as well as the ability keep track of available promotional sports bonuses.