Progressive Gaming International in some ways is joining the likes of IGT, Cantor Fitzgerald Gaming and FortuNet, now that all four companies have been approved by the Nevada Gaming Control Board to supply wireless gaming devices to select casinos in Las Vegas. But what makes the wireless device developed by Progressive Gaming different than the rest of the pack is that rather than hosting a wireless platform for gambling at standard casino games, their mobile handheld device - a wireless version of their patented Rapid Bet Live - permits sports bettors to make wagers on a sporting event during the entire duration of the game.

The device is currently being tested in a mock field-trial at the Palms Hotel and Casino, having been approved for distribution by the Technology Division of the Nevada Gaming Board early this year. Now that the devices are installed and operating live, they are already being used on casino grounds via a local area network allowing bettors to place real money wagers much like that employed at online casinos and sportsbooks. However, the devices are strictly prohibited from going online, and can only be used within networked areas of the casino. Betting terminals located in the sportsbook itself will still allow punters to place bets through the wired Rapid Bet Live system.

CEO of Progressive Gaming, Russ McMeekin commented that the introduction of both the wired and wireless versions in a single casino sportsbook is a milestone for the company, and that he is confident casinos will benefit from the sophistication and simplicity offered to sports bettors. Executive VP of Sales and Marketing, Bob Parente chimed in a note of confidence in the wireless Rapid Bet Live, citing the positive feedback it has already received in jurisdictions around the world where casino gambling and sports betting is deemed legal.