MGM's new policy allows table games players to take photos, videos at its Nevada casinos

MGM Resorts has released a new set of rules for using technology while players are seated at a casino table. The newly introduced policy, which affects its Nevada properties, allows the players to send texts as long as they do not hold up an ongoing game. Additionally, guests can talk briefly over their phones in case they are not playing the round in progress. But most notably, the policy updates the firm's rules for photographs and videos.

Under the new policies, players can take photos, videos and stream as long as the broadcasting doesn’t interfere with the game and the person obtains permission from the casino. Additionally, visitors are allowed to take photos of their hands for personal reasons.

Actions that remain forbidden for table game players include long talks over the phone and taking photos of different gaming equipment. Players are also prohibited from laying out objects on the table for extended periods. Guests are also not allowed to take pictures of casino employees and visitors in order to protect their privacy. 

MGM Resorts is launching a new "Streaming/Video/Photo Policy" for table games players. They're now allowing players to take photos and videos, and even do real-time video streaming while playing in some cases. pic.twitter.com/G9160nc8TK

— Las Vegas Locally 🌴 (@LasVegasLocally) June 1, 2023

Guests are further barred from taking photos or videos of MGM employees or other patrons, and must not record audio of the table game. Guests also remain prohibited from playing music or other audio. MGM says it reserves the right to modify the rules, and special circumstances will be afforded to VIP players and those gambling in high-limit rooms or at reserved tables.

In a statement, MGM Resorts International said: “The Gaming Streaming/Video/Photo Policy is launching for the Nevada properties in May 2023. 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.”

The policy affects the nine casino resorts MGM operates in Nevada, including MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, Bellagio, Cosmopolitan, Luxor, Excalibur, New York-New York, Park MGM/NoMad, and Aria. The company additionally manages the hotel operations of Delano, Vdara, and The Signature at MGM Grand.

MGM's move to allow some video streaming and photographs in its properties follows a rise in gambling-related content in social media and video-sharing platforms. The new policy could help the casino giant attract new players in the younger segment as guests show their experiences via their accounts, although it has also brought its fair share of criticism from patrons who believe anonymity should be maintained at casinos.