The Digital Regulation Debate: How Consumer Expectations Are Changing Online Industries

AI has supercharged a new digital revolution, but we haven’t yet reached a stage where we truly know what’s wanted, what’s needed, and what’s causing friction. There are cases of big companies rolling back on their AI dependency because of the costs, right alongside a growing resentment of AI amongst consumers, but only in some areas. 

What all this means is that we’re in a new world of consumer expectations, and those expectations are changing the digital regulation debate and how online industries are shifting, shaping, and changing. 

As a developer, it’s paramount that you understand just where the regulation debate lands, and how consumer expectations are changing, which is why this guide is just where you need to begin: 

• The Balance Between Service and Privacy 

One thing that AI and, in general, the latest technology changes have brought forward is growing public interest in online security and privacy. People have been suspicious that their phones are listening in for years, and that paranoia is only becoming more acute as consumers become more aware of just how their data is being used, particularly if it’s against them (dynamic pricing, for example). 

That’s why it’s critical to balance seamless service, often powered by data, with privacy, as Jackpot City Casino in Canada does. At Jackpot City, a player can enjoy live games of Blackjack with confidence, as well as fully randomised slot games, thanks to the advanced SSL encryption, safe banking features, and full licensing and regulation. 

Not every industry is as heavily regulated, leaving customers feeling unmoored and even distrustful of new brands and services. 

Working to improve your privacy and security can, therefore, immediately improve your trustworthiness in the eyes of your consumers. 

• Real-Time Engagement 

Regardless of a consumer’s specific stance on AI or AI chatbots, one thing is sure. That’s the fact that consumers today have shorter levels of patience. They want answers now, they need problems fixed immediately, and they demand it. They will happily use a chatbot if it gives them the answer they need instantly. 

That’s why real-time engagement is one of the number one priorities for developers. 

• The Growing Frustration of Fraud 

Between AI bots, AI product listings, and other fraudulent activity, it’s actually become more dangerous than ever to engage online, and consumers are getting frustrated. Having a platform that requires verification is increasingly becoming a safe space, so long as the data used to verify ID is private, secure, and optional (even if that optionality is whether you use that platform or not). 

This is one of the reasons why people are turning to closed servers and platforms. Being invited in and knowing that everyone you are engaging with is a real person, or that every game you use has been made, tested, and even licensed, is a huge relief for consumers who are increasingly engaging with fraud online. 

• Opt-In Personalisation 

Players and consumers do want personalisation, but they want to opt-in, rather than have their data and actions tracked across web pages and developers. Giving your consumers the ability to set their own preferences beyond simply “track or don’t track” lets them feel in control and, in turn, lets you offer them the level of personalisation they are comfortable with.