The state of Illinois is a US first when it comes to mobile betting ever since it launched its brand new Lottery mobile app – the first ever app that allows US players to purchase lottery tickets.

The new app has made mobile gambling news as one of the very first to allow customers to simply purchase lotto tickets from their smartphone, as well as check jackpots and winning numbers.

The new app launched by Illinois Lottery will allow for those with the app to purchase Mega Millions, Powerball and Lotto tickets. Players can also use the new app to locate nearby retailers using their phone’s geo-locator.

The app not only lets iPhone and Android mobile gamblers play, but also features messages about responsible playing, information on counseling and a self-exclusion hotline. Its users are also able to alter the settings to manage their app spending limit.

Illinois Lottery becomes US first with the launch of its new lottery app for smartphone use

The new lottery app is already available to those aged over 18 in the state of Illinois with a minimum purchase set at $5.

However, this is not the first time Illinois Lottery became a pioneer in its area. Back in March 2012, it also became the first US-based lottery to allow players to buy their tickets online.

So far, many in Illinois are excited about the new app, and the rate things are going, it looks like mobile betting will become the future for gambling in general.