Apple removes gambling Apps from Swedish App Store

Apple Europe have confirmed the removal of several gambling and sports betting App’s from Sweden’s App Store.

The technology giant had taken the decision to remove the gambling App’s after concerns arose from the Swedish Gambling Authority (Lotteriinspektionen) regarding the promotion of unlicensed gambling products to national consumers.

Swedish news sources have reported that sports betting operators Unibet, William Hill, Betfair and bet365 have had their apps temporarily removed by Apple Europe.

Throughout 2014, Lotteriinspektionen had made several public statements that it would look to restrict and ban advertising channels for unlicensed operators targeting Swedish consumers.

Lotteriinspektionen have further threatened to fine media owners and broadcasters who promote unlicensed gambling operators, regardless of operating jurisdiction.

It is unknown whether Lotteriinspektionen will follow up its App restrictions on Android IOS mobile inventory.  The igaming and sports betting operators affected by the removal of Apple App services have yet to make a comment on the matter.

Apple Europe is awaiting further clarity from Sweden’s gambling regulators before it allows the App services to display to the Swedish public again.