GAMING NEWS
New Jersey ban Google Glass
W
ell it is almost banned everywhere now in the US Casino world, Google Glass has now been barred in New Jersey casinos after the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement issued a directive to all twelve casinos in the state that they should bar any patrons entering their premises wearing the device.
New Jersey now falls in line with Las Vegas, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Connecticut in barring the glasses in their premises. The states Divisions Director for New Jersey, David Rebuk said in a memo to casino operators; “If these eyeglasses were worn during a poker game, they could be used to broadcast a patron’s hand to a confederate or otherwise be used in a collusive manner.” “Even if the glasses had not been used for cheating … their presence at a gaming table would lead to the perception that something untoward could be occurring, thereby undermining public confidence in the integrity of gaming,” Mr Rebuk continued in his memo. In a statement issued Wednesday, Google said, “We are thinking very carefully about how we design Glass because new technology always
raises new issues.” It said its “Glass Explorer” pilot program “will ensure that our users become active participants in shaping the future of this technology”.
Nevada April revenues flat April figures for Nevada released by the Nevada Gaming Control Board have shown a small decline in revenues at 0.16%, like for like on 2012 figures. The good news shows that from the low of 2011, revenues have climbed up to over 6%. Also over the last ten months revenues have seen a rise of 2.4% across the state and on the Vegas strip the rise has been at 5%, which offers promise to operators that the worst of the economic strife is nearing an end.
Atlantic City suffered a 4% drop in revenues for May according to the latest figures from the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement. However with a 4% drop there is some good news as this was the smallest decline for the year, as the previous four months saw double digit declines. “I think it’s a significant improvement,” said Tony Rodio, president and chief executive officer of Tropicana Casino and Resort. “I think the lower numbers we’ve seen since October are more of a reflection of the lasting effects of Hurricane Sandy. I think the further we put Sandy in our rear-view mirror, the more we’ll see better results.” “It’s a positive sign heading into summer,” he said. “I think we’ll start to see some positive numbers in the fourth quarter and through the early part of next year.” The Revel Casino has continued to slump following its exit from Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The newest casino in Atlantic City posted just $11.2 million in gambling revenues.
BUSINESSMAG • ISSUE JUNE 2013
Because the Google Glass is able to take photos, filming video and surfing the Internet, it is feared they could be used to count cards or even predict the fall of a roulette ball and bet on winning sections of the wheel.
Atlantic City revenues drops 4% in May
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