At the 2023 Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention, Everi launched a new product named Vi, aimed at exploring customer interest in local mobile gaming solutions.
This innovation quickly garnered widespread attention, making Vi the centerpiece of Everi's presentation at this year's convention held at the San Diego Convention Center.
"This is a completely new market segment," said Richard Sagman, Senior Vice President of Product Management at Everi. "Currently, no casinos in the U.S. offer Class II slot services on mobile devices. This year, we and other suppliers will pioneer this market, which is no easy task."
Sagman described Vi as an "integrated solution," creating a complete digital gaming ecosystem. Through their own smartphones, customers can not only connect directly to games but also access membership plans, digital wallets (especially Everi's CashClub wallet), and various value-added services from the casino.
"This is a true omni-channel integrated experience," emphasized Sagman.
Imagine a scenario: customers can register for a casino membership, activate a digital wallet, and book hotel rooms right from their phones at the airport; upon arriving at the casino, they can start playing games, claim bonuses, and even book restaurants directly through their phones, all within Everi's BeOn Mobile app and the Vi platform.
"All systems are interconnected, greatly simplifying the experience management for both players and operators," Sagman noted, "making it seem like you're using the same platform."
Since its launch two years ago, Vi has had dozens of games approved and integrated into the platform. These include Everi's own digital games and are gradually introducing other suppliers' Class II mobile gaming content. Vi's goal is not only to increase revenue but also to enhance casino customer loyalty and return visits.
"We want customers to stay entertained at the casino," pointed out Sagman. "When they leave, we can attract them back with personalized promotions, keeping them continuously engaged with the brand. This way, their next visit will still be to your casino, not a competitor's."
Vi is suitable for large tribal enterprises as well as smaller operators, helping them transition to digitalization.
"The digital world is a system in itself," said Sagman. "As more states begin to open up online gambling, casinos everywhere need to learn how to operate digital platforms, how to understand player behavior through data analysis, and establish a future-oriented membership and marketing system. This is a rare opportunity."
Especially for tribal casinos concerned about being left behind by the online gambling trend, Sagman believes Vi offers an excellent entry point. "The Class II slot market is our own. With Vi, we can create a richer entertainment experience for guests and maintain a competitive edge."
Nowadays, more and more people are accustomed to using their smartphones for shopping, payments, and banking. Vi is born in response to this digital trend.
"Today, in many places, people are used to paying with their phones and no longer carry large amounts of cash," noted Sagman. "This has become a common behavior, not limited to young people."
He further added that the demographic of slot players is changing, not just 20-somethings, but also male and female players aged 25 to 45 are increasingly using their phones for gaming and betting. They are active on social media and accustomed to digital entertainment.
"Since everyone is already accustomed to this method," Sagman said, "why not extend this experience to casino gaming?"
