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Consumer trends and habits constantly evolve, and the proliferation of smartphone adoption has led to digital entertainment consumption rising. While the majority of consumers have access to smartphones and other digital devices, there is still some way to go to improve the popularity of Canadian digital entertainment.
While many consumers actively explore digital entertainment platforms, many more stick with traditional offerings. Nonetheless, there are several ways to encourage consumers to watch movies, enjoy video games, stream music, audiobooks, and podcasts, as well as play online casino games. Online gambling specialist Liliana Costache discusses recently launched operators focused on the industry’s competitive nature, creating a great market for consumers, with special offers and competitive odds helping operators stand out against competitors. Other benefits of these platforms include improved convenience for players who want to enjoy their favourite casino games at a time and location that suits them.
The entertainment industry, in general, will be able to follow the lead of betting operators to create a unified and thriving digital entertainment market in Canada.
Improve Accessibility
Digital access can cover a lot of categories, from consumers being able to afford the hardware required to access digital entertainment sites, to internet connections, and regulatory prohibition of certain websites or online services.
Most Canadians have access to smartphones or devices that provide access to digital entertainment platforms, and affordable alternatives to brands like Apple and Samsung make them significantly more accessible.
As technology continues to develop, older or streamlined models become more affordable. In some cases, schools and local governments also provide tablets to help with learning.
Internet connectivity is also improving, with most consumers living in areas with high-speed coverage. Poor internet connections hamper the user experience, with content buffering. Fast home broadband connections, public wi-fi, and 5G have all made it possible for consumers to stream movies and music, or play live games on the move without a drop in quality.
As connectivity continues to improve, so will digital entertainment adoption as Canadians embrace its convenience.
Make Digital Media Platforms Affordable
The affordability of digital entertainment can also pose a problem to a lot of consumers, with multiple costs including the initial outlay for a smartphone or other mobile device. the contract or line rental of the device, internet connection, and any subscriptions for digital entertainment platforms.
While being able to stream music and movies, play games online, and download books that can be read or listened to can be significantly cheaper than buying hard copies, it can still add up. Apple TV, Amazon, Netflix, Disney, and Crave are just some of the options available, each offering its customers unique content.
Bringing some of these options together under one platform would be a massive boost to the digital entertainment industry in Canada. Spotify and Audible have a pretty good handle on their respective music and audiobook markets, and something similar for TV and Movies could be a game-changer.
Implement Convenient Payment Methods
Another way that digital entertainment platforms can improve access and enhance the user experience is by offering a variety of payment methods. Traditional payment methods, including bank transfers and card payments, remain the most popular, but other options are beginning to catch up.
As consumers attempt to minimize the risk of cybercrime, keeping personal information offline is becoming a priority. Making online payments via third-party platforms like Google Pay, Apple Pay, and PayPal can help customers make quick and secure payments without having to enter personal information.
These sites allow users to link bank accounts and cards to their accounts and provide robust security to protect customer data. Payments can then be completed in just a few clicks.
Another way that the digital entertainment industry in Canada can improve adoption and prepare itself for the future is by accepting crypto payments. Cryptocurrencies have been enjoying record-breaking growth and valuations, and political backing across the world could see more businesses beginning to accept them.
Government Funding, Private Sector Investment, and Other Collaborative Approaches
As digital media continues to grow, grants and government schemes, investment from the private sector, and collaborations across different industries could be beneficial.
Sports teams are already exploring digital partnerships that will provide action and updates to fans, and something similar could be conceived between movie studios, TV networks, and other entertainment industry markets.
Conclusion
Digital entertainment is already well established in Canada, and investment and development in the right areas will help its continued growth. The reliance of modern consumers on devices like smartphones and tablets has seen a revolution in the way people do their banking and shopping, and the way entertainment is consumed is set to follow.
The convenience of being able to access entertainment via mobile devices is something that can’t be beaten by traditional alternatives.
