Tag: #AR

Best iPhone Game Genres You Can Play in 2025

Memes and doomscrolling aren’t the only things an iPhone’s good for. This is the rundown on the top game genres dominating iPhone screens in 2025. Some will outlast your battery, some won’t. Whether you’re spinning reels, chasing leaderboard glory, or unwinding with match-3 sugar bombs, you’ll find them all here.

Gambling Games

There’s never been a wider choice of mobile casino options for iPhone. It’s not just the tired one-armed bandits your uncle used to hammer away at down the club. You can spin the reels on proper old-school 3-reel classics, take on modern heavyweights like Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest, and Book of Dead, or go all-in on video slots stacked with bonus features.

And this is where Djordje Bogdanovic’s verdict matters. He’s tested enough apps to spot when a “top pick” is little more than marketing gloss. His recommendations focus on titles that launch quickly, run flawlessly on iOS, and don’t leave you in a three-day stalemate with the banking system. The gameplay is clean, the RTPs are high, and the interfaces are free from unnecessary clutter or fine-print tricks.

Battle Royale & Shooter Mayhem

Free Fire is still holding the crown for quick-fire sessions and long-haul ranked play. With 6.5 million daily log-ins and 36.8 million monthly iOS players worldwide, it’s proof you can top the leaderboards in a lunch break or settle in for a proper grind.

PUBG Mobile hasn’t budged either. Sitting at 32.4 million monthly users and matching Free Fire’s 6.5 million daily log-ins, it’s clear tactical, squad-based shooters aren’t going anywhere. Matches are immersive, pacey, and can turn on a moment. The sort that’ll have you cursing if you hit the wrong button mid-firefight.

And then there’s Fortnite. It’s finally back on iPhones earlier this year after a five-year legal stand-off. It’s not just a quiet return. The new Blitz Royale mode has pulled in four times the player base of its classic battle format. It’s live, it’s fast, and the drop zones are filling quicker than a pub on match day.

RPGs & Strategy

Genshin Impact continues to be a heavyweight on mobile, taking up storage space and battery life without apology. It’s generating over $1 billion annually on mobile alone, with millions logging in daily to chase that perfect artifact drop. As of June 2025, it’s holding 15.2 million monthly active users exploring Teyvat at any given time.

League of Legends: Wild Rift brings the MOBA experience to mobile without the marathon desktop sessions. The Patch 6.2 update landed in mid-July, introducing the new champion Aurora, fresh game modes including AAA ARAM, Arena, and ARURF, plus a new Space Groove Lux skin line for those who like their battles with a bit of style.

For players after tactical thinking without a long commitment, Clash Royale remains the go-to for quick-hit strategy. Now in its ninth year, Supercell’s card-and-tower hybrid boasts over 14 million monthly active iOS users in the US. An impressive feat for a title with such longevity.

Game of Thrones: Kingsroad, launched on May 20 as an HBO-licensed spin-off, offers open-world combat and manual swordplay featuring fan favourites from Season 4. Despite pulling in around $1.1 million in its first 36 days, revenues began to slide by June. This is a concerning sign for a game with such a strong brand behind it.

Puzzle & Casual

Candy Crush Saga still wears the crown. Even in 2025, it generates over $600 million annually from players who insist they only play to relax. Its spin-off, Candy Crush Soda Saga, adds new mechanics and enough microtransactions to fund an actual soda factory.

Gardenscapes and Homescapes stick to the match-3 template but build it into storylines about renovating gardens and mansions. Each has amassed hundreds of millions of downloads and a dedicated fan base that blends puzzle fans with design enthusiasts.

Coin Master straddles genres as half slot machine, half village-building sim. It brought in $650 million in revenue last year. Best of all, its social mechanics keep players engaged while raiding friends’ villages and defending their own.

And yes, Subway Surfers is still running strong. With over 4 billion lifetime downloads and a consistent place in the App Store’s top charts, it proves that dodging trains hasn’t lost its appeal.

R & VR Games on iPhone

AR gaming has moved well past being a novelty. Apple has been pushing ARKit for years. And with Vision Pro now in the spotlight, developers are using the iPhone as a genuine portal into interactive worlds.

Pokémon Go remains the flagship title. The game is sending millions into parks, shopping centres, and the occasional awkward social encounter. It generated over $900 million in 2024, showing that the blend of nostalgia and GPS-based gameplay continues to pay off. Ingress keeps the dedicated crowd occupied with global turf wars, while The Walking Dead: Our World transforms familiar streets into zombie-filled gauntlets.

As for VR, the iPhone might not be ready to strap a headset on you just yet. Still, it’s already part of the ecosystem. Companion apps for devices like Meta Quest allow players to manage loadouts, track stats, or even stream a live casino floor in 360°. Whether it’s spinning reels, lining up headshots, sinking hours into RPGs, or sprinting through an AR zombie run, it’s all available on your pocket device.

The Technologies Reshaping The Online Casino Industry In 2025

The online casino industry has seen a massive transformation over the past decade, but in 2025, it’s reaching new heights, driven by a range of emerging technologies. From artificial intelligence to blockchain and immersive experiences, these innovations are redefining how players engage with online gambling platforms. With insight from Oreels, here are the key technologies revolutionising the online casino space in 2025.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

AI has become an integral part of the online casino experience. In 2025, it’s not just about chatbots and customer service anymore—AI is deeply embedded in player personalisation, fraud prevention, and game development. Advanced algorithms analyse player behaviour in real-time, providing personalised game recommendations, dynamic bonuses, and even proactive responsible gambling interventions. Machine learning models also ensure game fairness and detect suspicious activity, creating a safer and more engaging environment.

Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Integration

Blockchain technology has moved from being a buzzword to a backbone for many online casinos. Decentralised ledgers are enabling provably fair games, where players can verify the integrity of each outcome. Additionally, cryptocurrency payments are now the norm rather than the exception, offering faster transactions, lower fees, and increased privacy for players worldwide.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

Immersive gaming experiences are a major trend in 2025. Online casinos are leveraging VR and AR to create virtual casino floors that mimic the excitement of physical venues. Players can put on a VR headset and enter a realistic casino environment, complete with live dealers and social interactions. Meanwhile, AR is bringing games to life on mobile devices, blending real-world and digital elements for an unprecedented gaming experience.

5G and Cloud Gaming

The widespread adoption of 5G networks and cloud gaming infrastructure has transformed how players access online casinos. Lightning-fast connections and low latency ensure seamless gameplay, even for data-intensive VR experiences. Cloud gaming platforms allow players to access high-quality games without the need for expensive hardware, broadening the audience for online casinos.

Gamification and Enhanced Social Features

Gamification has evolved far beyond simple leaderboards and badges. In 2025, online casinos are incorporating complex missions, narrative-driven gameplay, and social challenges that keep players engaged for longer. Integrated social features, like live chat, multiplayer tournaments, and community events, are also central to the experience, turning online gambling into a vibrant and interactive community.

Final Thoughts

As 2025 unfolds, the online casino industry is experiencing a technological renaissance. With AI personalisation, blockchain-backed security, immersive VR and AR experiences, 5G connectivity, and deep social integration, online casinos are offering players a more secure, dynamic, and engaging experience than ever before. These innovations aren’t just reshaping the games—they’re reshaping the very nature of online gambling itself.

 

HighPoint’s PCIe Gen5 x16 RocketStor 8631CW Breaks New Ground for GPU Expansion

HighPoint’s RocketStor 8631CW represents a revolutionary leap forward in eGPU (external GPU) connectivity. Designed for professional media, industrial applications, and high-demand computing environments, the RocketStor 8631CW leverages industry-proven PCIe Switching technology and robust CopprLink CDFP connectivity to deliver an unprecedented x16 lanes of dedicated host-to-device PCIe 5.0 bandwidth.

 

Key Features
Burdened by performance and latency bottlenecks imposed by Thunderbolt and OCuLink connectivity? This groundbreaking solution liberates users from the limitations of conventional eGPU solutions, offering unparalleled performance and flexibility.

Unleash the True Potential of Your GPU with Industry-Leading PCIe Switching Technology: The RocketStor 8631CW harnesses the power of cutting-edge PCIe Gen5 switching technology to ensure your GPU operates at its maximum potential. This technology eliminates the performance and latency bottlenecks commonly associated with traditional eGPU enclosures, providing a seamless and efficient connection between your host system and GPU.

Ready for Today’s Fastest, Power-Hungry GPUs: The RocketStor 8631CW is engineered to support the most advanced, power-hungry GPUs available, including full-height, 2-slot, and 3-slot models from NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, and more. It provides a massive 600W of direct power, ensuring that even the most demanding GPUs can operate at peak performance without any power-related constraints.

Robust CopprLink CDFP Connectivity Delivers x16 Lanes of Dedicated Gen5 Host Bandwidth: The innovative CopprLink CDFP connectivity delivers a dedicated x16 lane connection, offering a staggering 128GB/s of bi-directional bandwidth. This ensures that your GPU receives the full bandwidth it needs to handle the most intensive workloads with ease.

Low-Profile LP-MD2 Adapter for Compact Workstations and Mini-PCs: The RocketStor 8631CW includes a low-profile LP-MD2 adapter, making it an ideal solution for compact workstations, rackmount chassis, and mini-PCs. This adapter ensures that even space-constrained systems can take advantage of the RocketStor 8631CW’s powerful capabilities.

Advanced Dual-Fan Cooling System with Programmable Smart Fan Control: To maintain optimal performance, the RocketStor 8631CW features an advanced dual-fan cooling system with programmable smart fan control. This system effectively dissipates heat, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring that your GPU operates at peak performance even under heavy loads.

Simple & Seamless Plug-and-Play Software-less Installation for Linux & Windows Platforms: The RocketStor 8631CW offers a straightforward plug-and-play installation process that requires no additional software. This makes it easy to integrate into both Linux and Windows platforms, allowing for quick and efficient deployment in any professional or industrial environment.

Target Use Cases
AI/ML Computing & Deep Learning: The RocketStor 8631CW is perfect for AI and machine learning applications that require the processing power of high-end GPUs. Its robust connectivity and power delivery ensure that these demanding workloads are handled with ease.

High-Performance Content Creation & Rendering: For content creators and 3D artists, the RocketStor 8631CW provides the performance needed for real-time rendering and high-resolution video editing, making it an invaluable tool for professional media production.

High-End Gaming, VR, and Media Platforms: Gamers and VR enthusiasts can benefit from the RocketStor 8631CW’s ability to support the latest, most powerful GPUs, providing a smooth and immersive gaming experience.

Scientific Research & Big Data Analytics: Researchers and data scientists can leverage the RocketStor 8631CW to accelerate complex computations and data analysis, enabling faster insights and more efficient research processes.

Enterprise Workloads & Cloud Computing: The RocketStor 8631CW is also suited for enterprise environments, where it can enhance the performance of cloud computing platforms and support the demanding workloads of large-scale data centers.

In Summary
HighPoint RocketStor 8631CW is a game-changing eGPU expansion solution that breaks free from the constraints of traditional connectivity options. With its industry-leading PCIe Gen5 switching technology, robust CopprLink CDFP connectivity, and advanced cooling system, it delivers unparalleled performance and reliability for a wide range of applications. Whether you’re a professional media creator, a data scientist, or an enterprise IT manager, the RocketStor 8631CW is designed to meet your most demanding GPU expansion needs.

Learn More
RocketStor 8631CW – PCIe 5.0 x16 GPU Expansion Chassis
https://www.highpoint-tech.com/rs8631cw-individual-page

Tech Takeover: How Startups Are Revolutionizing Global Tournaments

Technology is playing a significant role in revolutionizing global tournaments, from major sports competitions to pro eSports events and beyond. 

Here is a closer look at some of the technologies many successful tech startups leverage to create immersive fan experiences, streamline operations for organizations, and enhance athlete performance. 

Which technologies are tech startups using to revolutionize global tournaments?

Tech startup companies across the globe are helping to revolutionize global tournaments in various ways by leveraging several innovative technologies, which help to create more immersive and engaging experiences for fans. 

It also helps get the most out of the athletes who compete in these events and streamline day-to-day operations for sports teams and organizations. 

Some of the main technologies that are helping tech startups push the boundaries of what is possible with global tournaments are the following:

  • Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, data analytics, and blockchain technologies
  • Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) technology and wearable devices
  • Online marketplaces, monetization, fan communities, and eCommerce platforms

AI-powered tools are used to help create personalized fan engagement experiences at global tournaments. Blockchain technology allows for safer, quicker, lower costing, and transparent digital transactions, and data gathering and analysis and machine learning help athletes, teams and coaches to optimize their training strategies and improve their performances. 

Trusted platforms like MegaTipsList also leverage some of these technologies and gather/analyze huge amounts of historical [and current] data to provide sports bettors with more accurate predictions for some of the world’s biggest tournaments. 

A more detailed look at how tech startups are using innovation to transform global tournaments

Blockchain technology is used in various ways to enhance security and transparency for organizers and fans by streamlining payment gateways, verifying purchases digitally, and authenticating tickets. 

Blockchain is also used to create digital collectables and fan tokens/assets from eCommerce platforms and online marketplaces, which enables fans to engage more with their favourite athletes and teams in exciting new ways.

Thanks to VR/AR technology and wearable devices, platforms can also now provide sports fans worldwide with even more immersive experiences by allowing them to attend global tournaments, interact with athletes, and explore stadiums in the digital realm without ever having to leave home. 

Many tech startups have also developed a range of mobile applications and platforms that provide sports fans with real-time data and information about the event and the teams or athletes competing. These apps/platforms also typically provide exclusive content and give fans new opportunities to engage with athletes. 

Sports organizations rely on tech startups to gather huge volumes of data and information to track athletes’ performance and health levels, which helps identify areas that need improving and provides valuable insights to coaches and athletes. 

The technology helps organizations make more informed, data-driven decisions, optimize their training strategies, and get the most out of their athletes. It also helps broadcasters who live-stream major global tournaments provide better quality coverage and more interactive fan experiences. 

Final thoughts

Tech startups will continue to leverage the latest emerging technological innovations to revolutionize global tournaments over the coming years, which will help create even more immersive fan experiences, enable organizations to streamline their operations, and enhance athlete performance. 

 

How Emerging Tech Trends Are Reshaping Online Gaming

Online gaming, including video gaming, casual gaming, and online casino gaming, has evolved tremendously in recent years. Technological innovations are playing a crucial role in this transformation, enhancing how players experience and interact with games. 

Whether you’re diving into a fast-paced multiplayer match, exploring a complex video game world, or enjoying the thrill of a casino game from the comfort of your home, emerging tech trends are making gaming more immersive, interactive, and accessible than ever before. From virtual reality (VR) to artificial intelligence (AI), these technologies are reshaping the online gaming landscape, and they promise to bring even more exciting developments in the near future. 

Here’s a look at how these tech trends are revolutionising online gaming across different gaming genres.

5G Technology

5G technology is already making significant strides in revolutionising the online gaming industry, offering faster speeds and lower latency than ever before. For video gaming, this means players can enjoy smoother gameplay with almost no lag, even in high-speed, multiplayer games. The reduced latency and faster response times that come with 5G are enhancing the competitiveness and immersion of online games, making it feel as though players are truly inside the action. In casual gaming, the introduction of 5G allows players to enjoy more graphically intense mobile games without the issues of buffering or interruptions. Games that were once difficult to run smoothly on mobile devices can now be played effortlessly, improving the overall experience for gamers on the go.

For online casino gaming, 5G technology is proving to be a game-changer. Casino games, whether it’s live dealer games or traditional table games, require high-speed, uninterrupted connections for a seamless experience. The enhanced speed and stability of 5G ensure that players can enjoy smoother, more immersive gameplay with minimal delays or lag. Bettors can play games like slots, blackjack, poker, and roulette on domestic sites, which abide by local GamStop rules, or they can visit international sites for gambling not on GamStop. In recent years, international platforms have boomed in popularity as these sites offer flexibility, ease of access, and huge game libraries filled with traditional games, niche titles and live dealer games. 

5G is particularly beneficial for live dealer games, where real-time interaction with the dealer and other participants is key to the experience. With 5G, online casino players can engage with their favourite games in a way that feels more authentic, as if they were at a physical casino. This increased performance transforms the online gaming experience, making it more fluid and enjoyable for all types of casino enthusiasts.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are two of the most exciting innovations currently reshaping online gaming. These technologies are particularly impactful in video gaming and online casino experiences, where immersion is key.

VR, through headsets like Oculus Rift, PlayStation VR, and HTC Vive, enables players to step into entirely new virtual worlds. Whether you’re battling it out in a VR multiplayer match or exploring a rich, narrative-driven environment, VR transforms gaming from a passive experience to an active one. In online casino gaming, VR is taking things even further by offering virtual casinos where players can interact with live dealers and fellow players in a fully immersive 3d environment. For casual gaming, VR can turn everyday games into thrilling adventures, making simple puzzles or interactive games far more engaging.

AR, which blends digital elements into the real world, has also started making waves in the gaming community. Games like Pokémon Go have shown how AR can bring the game into the physical world, allowing players to interact with virtual objects and characters in their surroundings. While AR is still in the early stages, the potential for casual gaming, video gaming, and even online casinos to integrate AR into their experiences is vast, offering more interactive and dynamic gameplay.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is another technology that’s changing the landscape of online gaming. In the past, AI was used mainly to control NPCs (non-player characters) in games. However, AI is now being integrated into many more aspects of gaming, from personalising player experiences to enhancing interactions in online casinos.

In video gaming, AI has become a tool for creating smarter, more responsive enemies, improving both the challenge and immersion of the game. It’s also used in multiplayer games like Fortnite, League of Legends, or Call of Duty to optimise matchmaking, ensuring players are paired with others of similar skill levels, resulting in more competitive and enjoyable games. In casual gaming, AI can help adapt the difficulty level to match a player’s skill, ensuring a more engaging experience.

For online casino gaming, AI plays a crucial role in improving the overall user experience. From personalising game recommendations based on a player’s past preferences to providing smarter fraud detection systems, AI is making online casinos safer and more efficient. In addition, AI-driven chatbots are enhancing customer service, offering players quick and reliable assistance when needed.

Blockchain and Cryptocurrency

Blockchain technology and cryptocurrency are increasingly becoming essential components in the world of online gaming. Blockchain offers a secure and transparent way to handle transactions, which is especially useful in online casinos. With the rise of blockchain, players can ensure that their winnings are legitimate and that the games they play are fair, as the technology allows for public verification of each transaction.

Cryptocurrency, particularly Bitcoin and Ethereum, is another game-changer for online gaming. Many online casinos have begun accepting cryptocurrencies for deposits and withdrawals, providing players with faster transactions and lower fees compared to traditional banking methods. For casual gaming and video gaming, cryptocurrency is also being integrated into digital asset ownership, allowing players to buy, sell, and trade in-game items, skins, or even characters securely on the blockchain.

Cloud Gaming

Cloud gaming is another major development that is reshaping the online gaming world. Unlike traditional gaming, where the power to run games is needed on the player’s device, cloud gaming relies on remote servers to handle the processing. This allows players to stream their games directly from the cloud, which means they don’t need expensive hardware to play graphically intensive titles.

For video gaming enthusiasts, cloud gaming has opened up a world of possibilities. Services like Google Stadia, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Nvidia GeForce Now allow players to access games on a range of devices, from smartphones to laptops, without the need for a high-performance gaming PC or console. For casual gaming, this means that players can access a wider range of games without worrying about storage limitations or hardware compatibility.

In online casinos, cloud gaming allows for a seamless experience where players can access their favourite casino games from virtually any device, without the need for downloads or software installations. Cloud technology also ensures that games run smoothly, with minimal lag or interruptions, offering a more stable and enjoyable experience.

 

The 6 Biggest Tech Trends in Ireland

Ireland is no small player on the global tech stage, and it continues to punch well above its weight. In a way, it has become the digital frontier of Europe, adopting various innovative tech, from AI-driven analytics and immersive gaming to greener energy and top-of-the-line cybersecurity. Let’s take a look at the most exciting tech trends that are redefining Ireland’s technology landscape in 2025.

Mobile Gaming

Mobile-first has become the new default. Smartphone penetration continues to soar in Ireland, and the mobile gaming sector is riding high on that trend. 

The spotlight of this boom is on iGaming right now, with Irish gamers favouring mobile casinos and sportsbooks. Research shows that over 70% of adults play at least one game a year, and a significant portion of them do so online, via mobile. Slick interfaces with intuitive design keep attracting more audiences, while innovations like biometric logins, live betting, and AI-powered odds make the whole experience quick and seamless.

As many players look for more freedom and flexibility, the trend of exploring casinos outside Gamstop leads them to choose offshore platforms with better bonuses, fewer restrictions, and a broader range of games (source: casinos-not-on-gamstop.com).

AI Integration

More than just a buzzword, Ireland has adopted AI as a serious business backbone. Recent stats show that around 15% of enterprises and over 50% of large companies use AI. Recently, the public sector has joined in as well—government departments are already training civil servants in responsible AI usage, as part of the National AI Strategy.

The impact of this technology stretches through many verticals. From customer support to fraud detection, it’s an invaluable tool. In fact, for SMEs, using AI is a competitive differentiator. A survey carried out in 2024 showed that over 30% of Irish SMEs already use AI in some form, while close to half of them plan to expand—using it for sales forecasting, automation, and other methods of turning data into action.

Sustainable Energy

Sustainability has upgraded from being a side project to a proper strategy. Ireland is investing heavily in renewables, and with €7.4 billion saved in fossil fuel imports since 2000, it’s already paying off. Data-driven giants among tech companies are getting increasingly serious about sustainable energy. Cloud providers and data centres are under pressure for their energy consumption, which accounts for over 20% of Ireland’s total electricity use. Irish startups also have an opportunity to jump on the train of smart grid software, carbon analytics, and green innovations.

Cybersecurity

Cyber threats are now a reality rather than a hypothetical danger. In 2024, the National Cyber Security Centre handled 5,200 incident reports, with 721 confirmed cases. When it comes to business security, it’s a daily battle, with an average of 58 cyber incidents every year.

This surge in attacks has led to more investment in cybersecurity. 70% of organisations in Ireland plan to raise their budgets for security in 2025, covering everything from endpoint protection and data encryption to more advanced threat detection systems. More than just a trend, we are seeing cybersecurity become mission-critical for almost everyone.

Cloud Computing

In one year, the number of Irish companies and organisations hosting their infrastructure in the cloud has gone from 15% to 32%. Currently, an additional 33% are actively migrating, choosing cloud over legacy on-prem systems.

Many benefits are driving this rapid shift, from a growing reliance on remote collaboration tools to the need for flexibility and scalability. More agile startups gain the ability to compete with larger enterprises through reduced IT overheads and improved uptime. In 2025, 90% of IT leaders are expected to increase cloud investments, which puts the country in the fast lane of innovation.

VR & AR

Although first introduced in gaming, immersive technology has turned into something more. In Ireland, augmented and virtual reality are now being introduced into real estate, tourism, and even education. You can now take a virtual campus tour, attend an immersive training course, or view AR product previews as part of the mainstream experience.

Of course, gaming is still at the forefront here. VR casinos are also gaining ground, overlaying odds, stats, and live game data to make the activity more engaging and interactive. Shops are introducing gamification methods to deliver more impactful loyalty programmes. The popularity of these aspects is rising, and we can expect even more developers and investors to double down on immersive solutions in the times ahead.

AR tool could give cyclists ‘sixth sense’ and improve self-driving vehicle safety

A new tool which can rapidly prototype augmented reality experiences has given researchers new insights which could allow cyclists to safely share the roads with self-driving cars.

Researchers from the University of Glasgow developed the tool, called CycleARcade, which uses augmented reality headsets to enables cyclists to see and interact with simulated autonomous vehicles as they ride in real-world environments.

The team used CycleARcade to explore how new gear could equip cyclists with a ‘sixth sense’ to help them be more aware of self-driving cars’ intentions. They also examined how cyclists from different countries may expect different behaviours from autonomous vehicles on their local roads.

Unlike traditional simulators which use stationary bikes surrounded by computer screens to mimic real-world situations, CycleARcade enables a more realistic experience, where cyclists ride freely in open spaces with graphics of virtual vehicles displayed in their headsets. The system provides researchers with precise control over the virtual vehicles, allowing cyclists to safely test out immersive scenarios which could be dangerous on real roads with actual cars.

The team’s research builds on previous work they have conducted on how autonomous vehicles can communicate effectively with cyclists to replace the complex set of nods, waves and eye signals which human drivers and riders have developed to signal their intentions to each other. Their CycleARcade research will be presented as two papers later this month at the CHI Conference in Japan.

The first paper outlines how the Glasgow team used CycleARcade to test new designs for interfaces which could alert cyclists to nearby autonomous vehicles and provide information about the cars’ intentions.

With the help of a focus group of 20 cyclists, they developed and tested three virtual displays which would give riders information about vehicles around them in different road scenarios where some cars would yield to the cyclists while others would not.

One prototype, RoadAlert, displayed signals about the cars’ intentions directly onto the road surface and played spatial audio beeps which got louder as vehicles approached. A second, called reARview, gave riders a virtual rear-view mirror through augmented reality glasses. The third, named Gem, used handlebar-mounted displays to communicate the virtual vehicles’ movements.

Ammar Al-Taie, of the University of Glasgow’s School of Computing Science, is the paper’s lead author. He said: “Technology offers an opportunity to augment cyclists’ awareness of the roads around them, providing a kind of ‘sixth sense’ to help them navigate safely.

“What we found in this study is that you don’t need to alert cyclists about all vehicles equally. Cyclists need focused awareness of vehicles that pose the greatest risk, like those approaching from behind or vehicles that won’t yield, while being able to maintain attention on the road ahead. RoadAlert was the design that brought those qualities together most effectively for our study participants.

“It’s important to emphasise, though, that we’re not expecting cyclists to have to adopt this kind of technology in order to stay safe on the roads in the future. Instead, we’re expanding the toolbox for cyclists who want additional support or awareness, who could choose to buy devices specifically designed to do so.”

In the second paper, computing scientists and psychologists from the University of Glasgow and colleagues from the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden show how they used CycleARcade to probe the road safety expectations of cyclists in three different countries, with very different levels of cycling infrastructure.

They gave CycleARcade kits to cyclists in cities in Sweden, Oman and Scotland and asked them to ride in simulated road conditions with computer-controlled projections of autonomous vehicles displayed in their headsets.

In Stockholm, where cyclists are used to having their own space in dedicated cycle lanes, riders wanted to know exactly where the self-driving car was located around them. They preferred to take their time to judge its intentions by watching its driving behaviour.

In Muscat, where cyclists regularly navigate busy shared roads and make fast-paced decisions about their next move, riders were more likely to quickly trust direct signals from the vehicles.

Cyclists from Glasgow, which has a limited number of dedicated bike lanes, took a more balanced approach. They reported that they wanted to see both location information and clear signals about the vehicle’s intentions.

Mr Al-Taie added: “These findings clearly show that cyclists learn to share the roads with cars differently from country to country, which suggests that self-driving cars might need to adapt their communication methods to better speak the language of the local roads. Humans often do this naturally when driving abroad, but autonomous vehicles may need to have their programming tweaked to take local driving culture into account when they start rolling out around the world in the years to come.”

The paper has been selected by the conference for an Honorable Mention award, which are presented to the top 5% of papers submitted to CHI 2025.

CycleARcade is the latest development in research led by Professor Stephen Brewster, of the University of Glasgow’s School of Computing Science, which focuses on how cyclists can communicate with self-driving cars in the years ahead.

Professor Brewster said: “Ultimately, we’re aiming to thoroughly explore the ways in which cyclists and autonomous vehicles can speak the same language on the roads to keep both as safe as possible. Human drivers and riders have developed a sophisticated series of signals to help decide who has the right of way or who has priority in a change of lanes, for example, and it’s vital that cyclists can have the same level of trust and understanding with self-driving cars.

“CycleARcade is a powerful tool to help explore how that new language can be developed, using real bikes in real physical spaces, with virtual elements that can be tweaked or replaced in real-time. We’re continuing to work on research in this area, and we hope that our insights will help influence the design of future generations of autonomous vehicles.”

The team’s papers, titled ‘Around the World in 60 Cyclists: Evaluating Autonomous Vehicle-Cyclist Interfaces Across Cultures’ and evARything, evARywhere, all at once: Exploring Scalable Holistic Autonomous Vehicle-Cyclist Interfaces’, will be presented at the CHI Conference in Yokohama, Japan, on Monday 28th April and Wednesday 30th April respectively.

Video

 

Why More Apps Are Using Gamification to Keep You Interested

Gamification is everywhere these days, and it’s not just in games. Apps you use daily—whether for fitness, language learning, or even finance—are packed with features designed to keep you engaged. The numbers back this up. According to Mordor Intelligence, the gamification market is expected to reach £15.34 billion in 2025. That’s a huge leap, and it’s happening because gamification works. It taps into basic human psychology—our love of rewards, progress, and competition—to keep us coming back for more.

How Gamification Hooks Users

Gamification is all about making everyday tasks feel like a game. Points, badges, leaderboards and streaks are just a few of the ways apps encourage us to engage more. Take Duolingo, for example—missing a day of practice means breaking a streak, which makes people more likely to return. Fitness apps like Nike Run Club and Strava use leaderboards and challenges to keep users motivated. Even finance apps, like budgeting tools, have started incorporating achievements to encourage better spending habits.

The same principles apply across different industries, including entertainment. Take casinos not on GamStop, for instance. These platforms use gamified elements like reward systems, loyalty points and achievements to create a more engaging experience for users. The benefit here is that these casinos offer fewer restrictions and more gaming variety, making them appealing to players looking for flexibility. Just like with other gamified apps, the more engaging the experience, the more likely users are to return.

Common Gamification Features in Apps

So what makes gamification so effective? Points and rewards allow users to earn something tangible for completing certain actions, which can be exchanged for perks or discounts. Badges and achievements serve as milestones and motivate continued engagement. Leaderboards create a competitive ranking system that encourages users to beat their own records—or their friends’. Streaks and progress bars provide a visual representation of advancement, making users want to maintain momentum. Challenges and quests offer special tasks that reward users for completing specific goals. Some apps even introduce in-app currency that users can earn and redeem for benefits.

These features don’t just make apps fun—they also create habits. Studies show that when users engage with an app more frequently, they’re more likely to stick with it long-term.

Why Gamification Keeps Us Coming Back

What makes gamification so effective? It plays on core psychological triggers. Instant gratification keeps users engaged by offering rewards for small achievements. The fear of missing out (FOMO) makes users feel like they’ll lose progress if they skip a day, especially with streak-based systems. A sense of achievement is reinforced by hitting milestones, earning badges or, levelling up. Social proof and competition also play a role, as seeing what others are achieving makes users want to do the same—or better.

Real-World Examples of Gamified Apps

Some of the biggest names in app development rely heavily on gamification. Educational apps like Duolingo use streaks, XP points, and leaderboards to keep language learners motivated. Nike Run Club encourages fitness with achievement badges and competitive rankings. Peloton turns workouts into a game with live rankings and digital high-fives. Forest helps people stay focused by growing virtual trees that represent their productivity. Sweatcoin rewards users with digital currency for walking, which can be redeemed for real-world perks.

Marketing Gamified Apps

Marketing plays a crucial role in the success of gamified apps. App developers use targeted social media campaigns, influencer partnerships, and personalised email marketing to attract and retain users. Many apps offer referral programs where users can earn rewards for inviting friends, turning word-of-mouth into an effective growth strategy. In addition, push notifications with gamified language—such as reminding users to maintain their streak or complete a challenge—help keep engagement levels high. App store optimisation (ASO) also plays a key role, ensuring that gamified apps stand out with eye-catching descriptions, screenshots, and high ratings. The combination of gamification and strategic marketing creates a powerful formula for long-term app success.

The Future of Gamification in Apps

As technology evolves, so does gamification. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are opening up new ways to make apps more immersive. Imagine a fitness app where you’re running through a virtual world or a learning app that puts you inside a historical event instead of just reading about it. Blockchain technology is also making its way into gamification, allowing users to earn and trade digital assets for their engagement.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is also playing a role in gamification, personalising experiences based on user behaviour. AI-driven gamification can adapt challenges, rewards, and interactions in real time, making apps feel more intuitive and engaging.

Conclusion

Gamification is no longer just a gimmick—it’s a proven way to drive engagement and retention. Whether it’s learning a language, getting in shape or managing finances, apps that successfully integrate game elements are seeing better user loyalty and long-term success. As the market continues to grow, and with new technologies like AI, AR, and blockchain enhancing the experience, gamification will only become more sophisticated and effective. One thing is clear—apps that make interactions fun and rewarding will always have an edge in keeping users engaged.

 

The future of online gaming in Ireland: 5 key tech trends to watch in 2025

The online gaming landscape in Ireland has been changing rapidly, with new technologies transforming the way players interact with their favourite games. As we move toward 2025, Irish players are set to experience a more exciting, convenient, and innovative gaming environment. These advancements, from improved mobile experiences to quicker transactions, will define the future of online gaming in Ireland. Here are five key tech trends to watch in 2025.

Key Takeaways

Online gaming in Ireland is set for significant transformation with five key tech trends expected to shape the industry by 2025.

1. Mobile gaming will dominate as smartphones become more powerful and internet access becomes widespread.

2. Gaming platforms are prioritizing speed, aiming for under an hour withdrawal times to meet player demands.

3. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies will revolutionize the immersive experience in online games.

A new era of gaming in Ireland

Online gaming in Ireland is evolving, with mobile technology, immersive experiences, and faster transactions leading the charge. Players are demanding quicker, more secure, and more engaging gaming experiences. Charles Gagnon, Casinoble Reviewer, notes, “Technology is pushing the Irish gaming industry toward seamless, efficient, and exciting new experiences.”

1. Mobile gaming: A mobile-first future

Mobile gaming is reshaping how Irish players engage with their favourite games. With more powerful smartphones and widespread internet access, Irish players can enjoy seamless, high-quality experiences wherever they are. Charles Gagnon, Casinoble Reviewer, notes, “Mobile gaming will be central to Ireland’s gaming scene in 2025, offering immersive experiences on-the-go.” Expect continued growth in this area.

2. Gaming platforms: The growing demand for speed

Speedy withdrawals have become a top priority for online gaming enthusiasts, and Irish players are no exception. The rise of new Irish casinos is gaining momentum, as players demand quicker, more efficient transactions.

Gagnon explains, “Faster transactions are now a key factor in player satisfaction. Irish players are looking for platforms that offer swift withdrawals, ensuring that they can access their winnings without unnecessary delays.” In the coming years, more gaming platforms in Ireland are expected to adopt fast payment systems, offering withdrawals in under an hour, meeting the demand for instant gratification.

3. Immersive gaming’s future in Ireland: VR and AR

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are set to revolutionise the online gaming experience for Irish players. VR will enable players to fully immerse themselves in virtual worlds, interacting with environments and other players in real-time. AR, on the other hand, will blend digital elements with the real world, enhancing traditional gameplay.

Charles Gagnon, Casinoble Reviewer, states, “As VR and AR technologies become more accessible, Irish players will enjoy a more interactive and immersive gaming experience, offering something truly unique.” As these technologies advance, expect more VR and AR games to emerge in the Irish gaming market.

4. Artificial Intelligence: Personalised Gaming

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already making its mark on the online gaming industry, and by 2025, it will play an even more significant role. AI will help game developers create smarter, more intuitive game mechanics and offer players highly personalised experiences. Whether it’s suggesting games based on your playstyle or providing advanced customer support, AI will continue to enhance the user experience.

Gagnon adds, “AI is already shaping the way Irish players interact with games. In 2025, we expect AI to take things further by offering tailored recommendations and more sophisticated in-game features. It’s about making the gaming experience feel more connected and personalised.”

5. Blockchain: Boosting Security and Transparency

Blockchain technology is poised to transform the Irish online gaming landscape by offering enhanced security and transparency. With growing concerns around privacy and fraud, blockchain ensures that all transactions and game outcomes are verifiable and secure.

““Blockchain will be a game-changer for Irish players, providing greater trust and fairness. As this technology evolves, expect more Irish platforms to integrate it, making online gaming safer and more reliable.””

– Charles Gagnon, Casinoble Reviewer

Bright Future Ahead for Irish Gamers

The future of gaming in Ireland is promising, with emerging technologies transforming the landscape. From mobile gaming and faster transactions to immersive VR experiences and secure blockchain integration, Irish players can expect a more dynamic and efficient gaming environment. As these trends continue to grow, Ireland will lead the way in offering innovative, secure, and thrilling online gaming experiences by 2025.