Gaming software developer Playtech has announced the release of its Mobile Web Apps, a series of applications that will bring the company’s gaming products to mobile devices such as cell phones. Playtech announced in January a list of initiatives for this year and the mobile gaming platform is first on the list. Games available on the platform are blackjack, craps, video poker, Texas Hold’em and their signature slots.

Playtech stated that their platform will bring a new level of graphics to phone-based gaming. Progressive jackpots, greater security and protection against problem gambling are promised as well. Playtech has been a mover and shaker in the industry lately, creating a lot of speculation. Their deal with Sportech puts the company in position to offer sports betting on the mobile applications. The recent partnership with Scientific Games has many people speculating that Playtech is planning to secure a U.S. license if and when the country’s online gambling market is opened. Currently, Playtech refuses U.S. customers because of the UIGEA (Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act) ban.

The mobile platform will be available on personal computers or on devices for on-the-go use. Players can use the same account and log-in details for both. No download is needed with the instant play mode of the mobile applications. The technology can also be used on Android phones, the iPod Touch and the iPhone. Mobile Web App examples are a video poker game called Jacks or Better, blackjack and a progressive slot game called Gold Rally. Gold Rally is linked to Playtech’s online casino progressive slot jackpot, which has paid out more than a million to each of five players over the past year. Three Java-based games are scheduled for release as well. They include keno, bingo, pop bingo and the ever-popular “rock, paper, scissors,” which will carry fixed odds.

A new, unique feature called “Casino Pack” allows user to bundle a number of games into a single, downloadable package. Playtech’s IMS (Information Management Solution) will be transferred over, allowing integration across multiple platforms. Even though Playtech is the largest publicly traded online gaming software company in the world, they haven’t gone over the final hump. Mobile Web Apps are another step to get noticed by industry giants like Microgaming and Cryptologic.