The digital revolution has changed how millions of Australians consume media, wager on their favourite sports and play online games.
RELATED: Project Mix VR Preview: Cyberpunk Cocktails and Late-Night Feels
Read on as we explore how each sector has been impacted, starting with a seismic shift in viewing habits fuelled by digital technology.
Streaming
Netflix, Stan Australia, Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video have transformed how people watch television. They have massive content libraries where subscribers have an endless array of options to choose from.
Millions of Australians would rather subscribe to streaming services than pay for traditional TV, highlighting how customer preferences have changed.
Free-to-air TV numbers are dwindling, and networks must adapt to this new terrain. Some outlets, such as 9Now and 7plus, have established digital streaming platforms to stay competitive.
Aussies can access the content they love anytime and anywhere. They can binge-watch an entire show in one sitting, which wasn’t the case years ago.
With smart TVs, mobile apps and ultra-fast internet services becoming more widespread, Australians now have more access to their favourite content.
Digital platforms also have a significant influence on local productions. Several streaming services have invested heavily in Australian original programmes.
Netflix backed the Australian drama show Boy Swallows Universe while Stan invested in No Activity. Their funds local film and TV and tell Australian stories. Streaming has become the dominant force in modern entertainment.
Betting
Australia is famed for its ionate stance towards gambling and digital technology has helped improve the wagering experience for those looking for a thrill.
Online betting platforms are easily accessible. They offer a wide range of features which enhance the experience of watching live sports.
These include in-play betting. Punters previously had to place wagers before an event started, but online betting platforms allow them to wager when the action gets underway.
Many Australian punters have fallen in love with this feature which has empowered them to interact with their favourite sports differently.
Mobile betting apps also have changed the punting experience. Punters previously had to stand in long queues to place wagers with land-based bookmakers.
However, modern betting apps, with their seamless interfaces, instant deposits and real-time odds updates, help to make gambling more convenient.
Many betting platforms have also started using artificial intelligence (AI) technology to give punters better insights into their wagering activities.
Most Australian sportsbooks have a section containing today’s betting tips, which are carefully curated by experts to give players more information before placing their bets.
These features make digital platforms far more engaging than brick-and-mortar gambling establishments.
The accessibility and convenience of online gambling undoubtedly makes it a critical component of the Australian entertainment industry.
Social Gaming
Social gaming has spread like wildfire around Australia. Players can access social games via smartphones, tablets and social media platforms.
Candy Crush, Clash of Clans, 8 Ball and Call of Duty are among the games which have become massive hits with Australian citizens.
Social games are accessible and interactive. They are also mostly free. Developers depend on players buying game components to collect revenue.
The primary way of monetising the product is through microtransactions, virtual currencies and cosmetic upgrades, allowing players to enjoy the games without paying any fee upfront.
Facebook and Discord have communities where social gamers can post their achievements and interact with fellow players. Interaction and competition are just as important as gameplay.
Professional gaming has also become massively popular in Australia. Events attract spectators and players from around the globe to compete across titles such as Fortnite and League of Legends.
Many major international eSports tournaments that attract sponsorship deals and streaming opportunities on Twitch and YouTube Gaming.