MGM Resorts has a new photo and video policy for table games in its Las Vegas casinos. The new policy was necessary as taking photos of winning hands at table games continues to grow in popularity.
While slot machine streamers are more well-known, there’s a need for a policy for those sharing table game content live or after a session. The new photo and video policy from MGM Resorts also impacts both business and personal phone use at the tables.
The mobile phone landscape has changed a lot over the past decade. Mobile phones are ubiquitous today.
Nearly every person has a mobile phone with them at all times today. That wasn’t the case in the early 2020s.
Frankly, all land-based casinos in 2023 should have a new mobile phone policy in place. This not only helps customers know when they can use a mobile phone but it also gives the dealers clarity on what’s allowed.
The new policy was first leaked by Las Vegas Locally on Twitter. The overview of the internal document states:
“The new policy is aimed at allowing our guests to take photos and videos, and, when appropriate, to share that content in real or in near real-time via social media broadcasts (“streams” or “streaming”) while limiting the risks associated with allowing photography, filming and streaming in MGM Resorts’ gaming establishments.“
It’s common to play different table games in the same casino and have a contrasting response from a dealer when looking at a mobile phone — for work or otherwise. This policy will clarify when guests can use their mobile phones at eight casinos on the Vegas Strip.
Hopefully more will offer some clarity on the situation moving forward.
Where New MGM Resorts Table Game Photo And Video Policy Is Active
The new MGM Resorts table game photo and video policy started in May and is active at the following Las Vegas casinos:
- Aria
- Bellagio
- Cosmopolitan
- Excalibur
- Luxor
- Mandalay Bay
- MGM Grand
- New York-New York
- Park MGM (and NoMad)
If the policy is successful it wouldn’t be a surprise to see MGM Resorts properties use this outside of Las Vegas.
Using A Mobile Phone At Table Games
The new policy from MGM Resorts covers the everyday use of a mobile phone at table games in Las Vegas.
According to the memo, guests playing table games can now send text messages as long it doesn’t hold up the game. Not having to step away from the table for every text exchange is convenient for those trying to make plans with others while playing.
Additionally, players can speak on mobile phones without leaving the table as long as they’re not participating in a hand. This allows for a quick word, not a long conversation.
Guests can also take pictures of their hands for personal reasons. This might be the most important part of the new policy as recreational gamblers love to document their wins or odd hands to share.
MGM Resorts’ high-limit rooms might be different as some players might require privacy.
Guests cannot do the following with their mobile phones at table games:
- Leave a phone on the table for an extended time.
- Have long phone conversations while seated.
- Take pictures of the equipment, other players, or staff.
- Play music
Guests may not record audio, video, or stream without approval from MGM Resorts.
Difference Between Personal And Professional Content
Creating content in a casino for personal use is different than using it to get paid. The new policy also clarifies the difference between creating personal and business content using a mobile phone.
- Commercial Use: Prior approval is required by the person from the MGM Resorts public relations department.
- Quasi-Commercial Use: Prior approval is required by MGM Resorts’ Corporate Gaming.
- Personal Use: Prior approval is not required. Guests may take photos and videos to post on social media. If the dealer feels as though the content is for commercial use, they will call security or other casino staff.
The recording for a financial game section of this policy is straightforward. Get permission before recording.
MGM Resorts requires all commercial and quasi-commercial recordings or streaming to be approved prior to taking pictures and live video or streaming.