Player One launches gambling game for mobiles

As the online gambling industry reels at the news that its services could be banned in the US, Player One has announced the launch of a new multiplayer poker game for mobile phones.

Real-money Pokermillion Texas Hold'em is the first in a series of titles that will let players place live bets against other players from across the UK, using 7 pence chips bought with a credit card.

The game has been developed with the help of London-based mobile technology developer Cecure and will tie in with Poker Million, a European poker tournament broadcast on Sky Sports 2 every Tuesday night.

"With the growth of 3G services and more sophisticated handsets, we anticipate that the mobile channel will push real-money gaming services out to a broader and lower stake market than existing channels such as the Internet, offering opportunities for market growth for operators where legislation permits," said Player One MD Pete Russell.

Peter Karsen, CEO of Cecure, added, "The mobile real-money gaming world is an interesting market place that needs specialist knowledge and a deep understanding of issues such as security to make it a regulated and safe environment for players.

"Player One and the Pokermillion brand fulfil the three main criteria we look for in partners; a strong brand, a pre-existing customer base and the financial resources to be successful."

Real-money Pokermillion Texas Hold'em is available now via a variety of operators, including Vodafone Live! in the UK.