Inside Mobile Payments with Bojoko’s Ville Saari

Mobile usage continues to lead growth in the iGaming space, with an increasing share of players choosing to game on smartphones. Their expectations extend beyond gameplay as they look for payment experiences that are just as fast, smooth, and accessible. This shift has made payments a central part of the overall user experience, with growing pressure on operators to get it right.

Ville Saari, Lead Content Manager at iGaming Affiliate Platform Bojoko, joins us to discuss the growing importance of fast and trusted mobile payments in the UK online gambling industry. With a background spanning European and North American markets, Ville shares his insights on how payment technology is evolving, the challenges operators face, and why speed and transparency are becoming key differentiators in a competitive sector.

 

Can you tell us about why mobile payments are so critical in the UK gambling scene?

 

The UK is one of the most mobile-driven gambling markets in the world. A significant share of bets and games now happen via smartphones, which means the entire experience from registration to withdrawal needs to be seamless on mobile. Payments are at the heart of that. If players encounter delays, unclear processes or don’t trust the method offered, they’ll likely drop off.

Fast, reliable mobile payments are essential not just for player satisfaction but also for building long-term trust and retention. For operators, delivering on those expectations can offer a clear edge in a highly competitive market. Mobile-first players are actively seeking out casinos that offer fast and convenient ways to pay, making demand for these options consistently strong. For example, Bojoko’s page featuring casinos that allow deposits by phone bill continues to attract strong traffic. It’s a clear sign that mobile-friendly, convenient payment options really matter to UK players.

 

What challenges do UK operators face when offering mobile payment options?

 

Regulation is the first. UK’s strict anti-money-laundering checks mean some payment options require extra verification, which can slow things down. Next is trust. Players want mobile wallets that protect their data and finances. Finally, integration. Operators must balance reliable fintech infrastructure with a seamless UX. Highlighting providers who strike that balance is essential.

 

How do you decide which payment providers to feature at Bojoko?

 

While we do feature as many payment providers as possible, not all get the same level of praise. We assess their speed, reputation, UX and compliance, as well as look for clear terms, such as no hidden fees and transparent processing times. The ones that pass with flying colours are the ones we promote.

 

 

What trends are you seeing in mobile payment innovation within UK iGaming?

 

We’re seeing OEM adoption of open banking systems, where payment initiation services route directly from bank accounts. These boast instant deposits and stronger fraud protection. Digital wallets like Apple Pay are growing too, especially among younger players, for their familiarity and convenience. Finally, we’re tracking instant withdrawals becoming more standard, rather than future promises.

 

Why should entrepreneurs and business leaders care about fast, trusted mobile payments in gambling?

 

In gambling, trust and speed directly impact retention and brand reputation. Make payments slow or add bothersome terms, and players walk out. Fast, secure transactions build loyalty, and loyalty pays. For entrepreneurs, that translates into growth and valuation. For operators, it’s about standing out in a crowded market on service and credibility.

 

Looking ahead: how will mobile payments in UK iGaming evolve in the next few years?

 

I expect further open banking penetration and wider adoption of instant withdrawals, even within minutes of request. We may also see account less verification via biometric systems if regulations allow. Consumer demand is pushing for faster, more secure interactions. Content-wise, players and decision-makers will expect clarity, trust and transparency, and that’s where Bojoko will focus.