Fancy a flutter? Google to allow real money gambling worldwide...

Gambling online is set to become easier than ever thanks to Google's upcoming changes

Being stuck inside is tough. Millions have given in to their impulsive urges to indulge in behaviour which will probably not be in their best interests long term, but which massively benefit the tech companies who have the reach and power to become the provider of choice - even on a local level.

Food delivery companies such as DoorDash have seen profits soar. Netflix has experienced stronger-than-expected subscriber growth Home orders of all types have allowed Amazon to double its profits during the first months of the pandemic.

Naturally, Pornhub - weathering it’s own crisis, has nonetheless been doing extraordinarily well as one-handed typists work from home.

But what about those wanting to let rip with their baser instincts once the post porn euphoria has worn off?

A flutter on the fight, maybe. A wager on the winners. A bet on the boxing. A gamble on the golf.

Or maybe the simple joys of mindlessly pushing a coin into a slot, pulling a lever and watch the fruit fall into place.

While there have been virtual equivalents for those unable to visit a bricks and mortar bookies, they have generally been limited to desktop computers. With the notable exception of Android users in Brazil, Ireland, France, and the United Kingdom, gambling with real money on Android has been verbotten.

From March 1, 2021, that’s set to change, and being in lockdown won’t make a difference to your ability to throw your money down the drain.

“We’re updating our Real-Money Gambling, Games, and Contests policy so more developers around the world can build sustainable businesses, and in a way that helps keep consumers safe,” Google’s Upcoming Policy Changes Statement reads, before going on to list all of the new countries where needy gamblers will soon be able to spend their cash - with a suitable commission to Google, of course.

The countries where in-app, real-money gambling will be allowed are: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Romania, Spain, Sweden, and the United States.

Exactly how giving billions of bored potential customers this ‘opportunity’ keeps them safe, we don’t know. maybe it keeps them away from the local cock fights.

Not that there’s anything intrinsically wrong with gambling. The Crow loses a tenner on the Grand National every year like clockwork. Millions of people gamble on a regular basis without developing a problem - but then again, millions don’t.

And when your phone is in your pocket with real money gambling apps installed, and you’re bored, there’s really nothing to stop you. You don’t even need to get out of bed and head to the nearest desktop or laptop. You can do it on the toilet.

The rules which govern the no-doubt upcoming flood of gambling apps on Android are available here. they’re painfully short on details.

Stay tuned and we’ll keep you posted.