Free long distance on slot machines

United States Patent Application: 0050255921

This is an interesting concept. Not being into gambling, it seems like one of those ideas that will go nowhere. However, I did a little more digging, and it turns out this may be a really big one.

Supposedly some casino’s have phone people that rotate through the casino giving away cell phones, such that people can make long distance calls while continuing to play. In addition, some of the slots in Atlantic City actually have phone jacks, such that a phone can be plugged in for a customers convenience.

This patent is interesting, as it ties phone service as a reward for continued play. Thats some interesting psychology in and of itself. To me, multi-tasking is a useful tool in some circumstances, multi-tasking while gambling might lead to impaired judgement… but maybe thats what is wanted.