Latest News
Q&A with Justin Chen, PickFu Co-founder: How Can Mobile Game Developers Overcome IDFA Void?


Apple’s recent iOS 14.5 update has disabled the Identifier for Advertisers (IDFA), a handy tool for mobile game developers and online marketers to create game features and design advertising strategies.
Here we have with us Justin Chen, co-founder of PickFu, a leading consumer research software that feeds business intelligence through instant online polls.
He talks about the removal of IDFA, its potential impacts, user reaction to the removal, and how game developers and marketers can fill the void.
Q. Welcome Justin Chen, Could you explain the recent talks surrounding IDFA?
A. IDFA acts like a cookie to help advertisers better target iOS users and measure the effectiveness of their mobile marketing campaigns. Apple’s latest iOS 14.5 update has a App Tracking Transparency feature that disables IDFA by default.
This could substantially impact how mobile games are created and marketed. Let me explain it.
Prior to the change, IDFA provided advertisers with information such as whether users downloaded their game through a browser ad or when they’re using the app, how they are interacting with ads in their game, and more. This data became fundamental tot programmatic advertising strategies that free-to-play games use to acquire and target users, improve the user experience, and monetise games. Many marketers believe the update is the death of IDFA, as consumers must now opt in to allow app tracking.
Q. PickFu has recently conducted poll with gamers with Apple devices. Could you tell us more about the results of the poll?
A. PickFu’s poll involved 200 mobile gamers with Apple devices. The poll simply asked whether they would enable or disable app tracking.
In the poll, 81.5% of respondents, though, said they’d disable IDFA tracking. They largely felt it invaded their privacy and were uncomfortable with companies owning their data. According to one respondent, “I don’t want my data tracked by anyone or anything, anonymous or not. I don’t need targeted advertisements. If I am interested in purchasing, I will look into the product myself and do my own research.”
There were 18.5% respondents who said they would enable IDFA tracking. These players commented that they like to receive personalised advertisements and don’t mind being tracked, as long as their personal information wasn’t shared. One wrote, “I don’t like the idea of being tracked, but they are not getting any of my personal information. I would rather get advertisements that might interest me than ones that I don’t care about at all.”
Q. What would be the impact of this on mobile gaming studios?
A. Before iOS 14.5, approximately 70% of Apple users shared their IDFA data with app publishers. This figure could drop to as low as 10%, making the data pool much smaller for advertisers. Mobile gaming studios will have to reevaluate how they collect data to market to mobile audiences.
Q. Now, how will game marketers figure out whether the ads are optimised and targeted to the right people?
Well, there are basically two ways: 1. Find alternate ways and 2. create new methods.
- Find alternate ways to gather real-time audience insights
IDFA helps mobile game developers collect real-time data around how their core audience plays their games and interacts with their ads. Using this data, developers optimised their games to provide a better user experience for players. With the soon-to-be smaller data pool, this granular information will, ironically, become even more granular.
To supplement the dramatically lower numbers, mobile game developers will need supplemental ways to gain audience insights quickly. Surveys of mobile gamers will help developers to gauge opinions in a totally privacy-compliant manner. Speed doesn’t need to be lost, either. The online nature of player polling means that developers can act on their survey results the very same day they pose a question.
- Create new targeting opportunities
The hyper-targeting that IDFA makes possible is one of its most appealing qualities for advertisers, even if less so for those they target. But online surveying providers can offer readymade audiences based on your targeting needs, and these audiences usually self-report their identifying qualities.
Q. That is interesting. What are the options available to game developers and marketers for such surveys?
A. Some available polling audiences that game studios may find valuable:
- Gaming platform: mobile, PC, console
- Gaming habits: daily players, weekly players, occasional players, etc.
- Favourite gaming genres: role-playing, trivia, strategy, word, etc
- Devices: iOS, Android
- App store spending habits: under $10, $100 or more, etc
- Demographic groups: women, parents, income range
Q. Final question now. But can surveys provide the exact kind of data that IDFA used to provide?
A. IDFA shows advertisers how mobile players interact with their ads. But one limitation is that you can’t access any data until you have a launched game with live players.
Surveys enable you to get real-world reactions to a much wider range of mobile gaming assets, from mobile app icons, game concepts, artwork, app names, descriptions and more. You can conduct this research at any stage of a game’s development lifecycle. The earlier you start gathering data, the more confident you will be as you move toward launch.
In addition, IDFA provides purely quantitative data such as impressions and click-through rates. However, you’re left to guess the why behind these numbers. By incorporating polling into your strategy, you’ll hear directly from players, helping to understand why they like or dislike characters, ad creative, or whatever else you show them.
Taking qualitative feedback into account will improve your game overall, allowing for improved player interactions, stronger download figures, and better overall ROI.

Latest News
Groove Technologies and BetOnGames Forge Strategic Partnership
In a landmark move, platform and aggregator Groove Technologies has announced a strategic partnership with BetOnGames, the RNG game provider arm of BETCORE. This collaboration brings together Groove’s enterprise-grade platform, boasting over 15,000 games from 150+ top-tier providers, and BetOnGames’ lightweight, high-performing content, optimised for real-world conditions.
The alliance promises to deliver unparalleled scalability, engagement, and profitability for operators worldwide.
Groove’s cutting-edge platform is renowned for its precision, scalability, and advanced player engagement tools, making it a powerhouse for operators who demand excellence. By integrating BetOnGames’ portfolio featuring 100+ fast-loading, low-data titles across slots, crash, and instant-win formats, Groove further solidifies its position as the go-to solution for diverse markets, including regions with limited internet coverage.
Rachel Tourgeman, Head of Partnerships at Groove, emphasised the strategic value of the partnership: “BetOnGames’ adaptability and high-converting content perfectly complement Groove’s mission to deliver unmatched performance for operators. Their lightweight design, multilingual UI, and seamless payment integrations, including UPI, QR-wallets, and crypto, make them an ideal partner for both emerging and mature markets. Together, we’re setting a new standard for player engagement and operational efficiency.”
BetOnGames has built a reputation for reliability, offering RNG-certified titles with competitive RTPs (96–97%) and 24/7 technical support. Popular titles like Aerobet (crash-style, 97% RTP), 100 Mega Hot (classic slot, 97.12% RTP), and Bicho da Sorte 25 (lottery-style, 92.26% RTP) cater to a broad spectrum of player preferences, ensuring high retention and conversion rates.
Peter Korpusenko, CEO of BETCORE, highlighted the significance of the collaboration: “Partnering with Groove allows us to expand our reach exponentially while maintaining the speed, fairness, and lightweight efficiency that define BetOnGames. Groove’s robust backend and analytics tools empower operators to maximise our content’s potential, driving growth in even the most competitive markets.”
With full licensing under the Curaçao Gaming Control Board, integrated responsible gaming tools, and AML compliance, BetOnGames provides a secure and scalable foundation for operators. Combined with Groove’s industry-leading platform, the partnership ensures seamless onboarding via Groove’s single-API, optimised cash flow, and data-driven decision-making.
As iGaming continues to evolve, Groove and BetOnGames are poised to lead the charge, delivering a dynamic, player-centric experience that transcends borders and technical barriers. For operators seeking a competitive edge, this collaboration represents the future of iGaming today.
Yahale Meltzer, Co-Founder and COO at Groove, underscored the long-term vision: “This partnership isn’t just about adding games, it’s about enhancing ecosystems. BetOnGames’ performance in low-bandwidth environments and localised payment options align perfectly with our commitment to inclusivity and innovation. Together, we’re not just meeting operator needs; we’re anticipating them.”
The post Groove Technologies and BetOnGames Forge Strategic Partnership appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
Week 37/2025 slot games releases
Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming
Leroy wakes up every day with a smile on his face! Why you may ask? Well executing is a dirty job but Leroy just loves to swing his axe in Nolimit City’s latest release, Dead Men Walking. The chopping block features a 3-3-3-3-3reel setup with three Fire Pits above the reels each linked to a unique base game feature.
Amusnet has released 100 Art of Gold. This new online casino release brings together the elegance of art and the dynamic feel of modern slot design. Built on a 5-reel layout with 100 fixed paylines, the game stands out with its refined aesthetic and carefully crafted details.
Play’n GO heads skyward with Rosy Orbit Treasure Turn™, a radiant slot where gravity is optional and innovation is key. A mysterious princess, a faithful fox, and a cherished rose – Play’n GO blends character-driven charm and fresh mechanics in Rosy Orbit Treasure Turn™.
Burning Classics 2 is here to ignite your winnings with all the fiery thrills of the original, plus even hotter rewards. The sequel to Booming Games’ most popular game, Burning Classics, keeps the classic 5×3 grid and 20 variable paylines, along with the iconic stacked symbols, including stacked wilds.
Blueprint Gaming™ takes one of its strongest internationally performing series to new heights in Cash Strike Hotstepper 2, with Super Strike and mystery symbols among the new additions designed to elevate the gameplay experience on offer.
BGaming is excited to announce the launch of Bonanza Trillion, the highly anticipated sequel to the hit slot, Bonanza Billion. The game builds on the success of its predecessor while also upping the ante with a range of captivating features, enhanced visuals, and higher volatility. Bonanza Trillion upgrades the classic fruit and crystal theme that players loved from the original title.
Step into the heart of the untamed frontier in Bison Moon – Power Combo, a slot from Northern Lights Gaming that captures the rugged beauty and boundless thrill of the Great Plains with plenty of big wins in store. This action-packed slot introduces the provider’s latest mechanic, Power Combo, where three unique Scatters unlock incredible bonus features via its proprietary Link&Win feature.
The vast plains are alive with the sound of rampant hooves, the roar of predators, and helpful animals along the way. ELA Games proudly presents its latest release, Buffalo Force, an energetic game that celebrates the sheer power of nature.
Spinomenal is welcoming players to ascend to Valhalla with its latest mythology-inspired slot, Majestic Odin. The game joins Spinomenal’s hugely popular Demi Gods series. Majestic Odin is set against a breathtaking Nordic landscape of towering mountains, deep fjords, and glowing torches that frame the game with mythic grandeur.
The post Week 37/2025 slot games releases appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
GR8 Tech’s Bet It Drives Wraps Season 1 with Stephen Crystal—From Las Vegas Legends to Global Gaming Leadership
GR8 Tech’s drive-time podcast Bet It Drives closes out its debut season in the fast lane with Stephen Crystal, Founder of SCCG Management and a 30+ year veteran of the gaming world. From reshaping tribal and riverboat gaming to owning iconic Las Vegas casinos and driving more than $3 billion in finance, M&A, and technology projects, Stephen has spent his career at the center of the industry’s biggest moves.
In the passenger seat with host Yevhen Krazhan, GR8 Tech’s CSO, Stephen takes listeners from the glitter of Vegas to the global stage—where he has advised 120+ client-partners across 100 countries, built US operations for the UK’s largest bookmaker, and cut high-profile sports betting deals with teams like the Cincinnati Bengals and Vegas Golden Knights.
On this ride, Stephen opens up about:
- Whether industry events really bring the business
- Why he believes in connecting people to people above everything else
- How he’d reshape iGaming conferences (hint: more case studies, less fluff)
- The single-sentence keynote he’d deliver if given the mic
- The people and principles that shaped his journey
- The art of closing deals and the mindset behind his business approach
- Which song he cues up when it’s deal-done time
- His take on when it’s “network” and when it’s definitely “not work”
“Stephen brought the kind of wisdom you only get from decades at the very top of gaming and a career spent building, betting, and believing in people,” said Krazhan. “It was a very inspirational, motivational talk—and Stephen officially earned a Bet It Drives seatbelt of honor.”
As always, Bet It Drives trades the studio for the streets of London, filming each episode entirely on the move with a multi-camera crew capturing both the ride and the real talk. The result is a podcast that has blended insider insights with unscripted, human moments all season long—from Alex Pratt and Helen Walton to Rohini Sardana, and now Stephen Crystal in the finale.
Watch Episode 4 with Stephen Crystal now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.
That’s a wrap for Season 1. But don’t unbuckle just yet—Bet It Drives will be back soon. Follow GR8 Tech and stay tuned: Season 2 is already on the horizon, promising more bold voices, more candid conversations, and more reasons to hit play.
The post GR8 Tech’s Bet It Drives Wraps Season 1 with Stephen Crystal—From Las Vegas Legends to Global Gaming Leadership appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
-
Latest News3 months ago
Brand-new projects debuting at iGB L!VE: Casino&You and Win&You Partners!
-
Latest News1 month ago
Light & Wonder to Participate in the 2025 Australasian Gaming Expo
-
Latest News4 weeks ago
ReferOn Shortlisted for Acquisition & Retention Partner of the Year at SBC Lisbon 2025
-
Latest News1 month ago
Gavin Hamilton Joins Sports & Wellbeing Analytics as Chairman to Accelerate Global Expansion
-
Latest News2 months ago
2025 PUBG MOBILE WORLD CUP KICKS OFF WITH GROUP DRAW AHEAD OF ESPORTS WORLD CUP
-
Latest News2 months ago
HIPTHER Community Voices: Interview with the CEO and co-founder of Nordcurrent Victoria Trofimova
-
Latest News3 months ago
HIPTHER Community Voices: Interview with Dr. Maria Loumpourdi, founder and Managing Director of Made From Within
-
Latest News2 months ago
CEO of MEDIA24 Interviewed: Industry Scams, Business Insights and SEO
You must be logged in to post a comment Login