Connecticut Lottery Corporation Soft-Launches iLottery

After years of anticipation, the Connecticut Lottery Corporation (CLC) has taken a significant leap into the digital age. Lottery enthusiasts across the state can now participate in their favorite draw games from virtually anywhere within Connecticut, thanks to the recent soft launch of the CLC’s iLottery platform. This milestone marks the culmination of efforts that began with the legalization of online lottery sales in 2021, positioning Connecticut as the 13th state to offer such services.

The iLottery's soft launch, initiated last week, signifies Connecticut’s entry into the realm of digital lottery sales, bringing modern convenience to a traditional pastime. Currently, the platform enables users to engage with various draw games, where winners are determined through a random number draw. However, it's worth noting that scratch-off and instant-win games are not yet available, limiting the online offering to traditional draw game formats.

 

Games Available on Connecticut’s iLottery

Connecticut’s iLottery offers a selection of popular draw games, which can be accessed and played daily from 5 a.m. to 2 a.m. EST. This broad availability allows users to enjoy lottery activities from the comfort of their homes or while on the move. The current lineup includes:

• Cash5: A daily draw game with a rolling jackpot.
• Keno: A fast-paced game with drawings every four minutes.
• Lotto!: Connecticut’s own jackpot game with twice-weekly draws.
• Lucky for Life: A multi-state game offering a lifetime prize for winners.
• Mega Millions: A widely popular multi-state lottery with massive jackpots.
• Play3 with Wild Ball: A daily draw game with the option to add a Wild Ball for more ways to win.
• Play4 with Wild Ball: Similar to Play3, but with four-digit combinations.
• Powerball: Another multi-state favorite known for its large jackpots.

 

As with many new digital platforms, the iLottery has experienced some initial challenges. The CLC has reported email issues that have emerged since the soft launch, which are currently being addressed. This soft launch period, which extends until at least June 20, serves as a crucial phase for troubleshooting and refining the user experience before a full-scale launch. During this time, the CLC is focused on resolving these issues to ensure a smooth and reliable platform for its users.

In a move coinciding with the iLottery’s debut, the CLC has appointed Frank Suarez as its new President and CEO. Suarez joins the CLC with extensive experience from his previous role as Executive Director of the DC Office of Lottery and Gaming, where he successfully managed the implementation of online lottery sales. His expertise is expected to be instrumental in guiding Connecticut's iLottery through its initial phases and beyond.

Suarez expressed his enthusiasm in a recent press release, stating: “I am honored and excited to join the Connecticut Lottery Corporation and to work with the talented team here to drive continued growth and success. Our focus will be on maximizing revenue for the state while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and responsible gaming.”

The iLottery's technological infrastructure is supported by International Gaming Technology (IGT), a prominent provider in the lottery industry. IGT's successful navigation of regulatory requirements was key to achieving the mid-June soft launch. This partnership highlights the CLC’s commitment to employing robust and compliant technology solutions to underpin their online gaming platform.

 

Looking Ahead

The soft launch of the iLottery represents a significant advancement in the modernization of Connecticut’s lottery offerings. Although only draw games are currently available, there is potential for the platform to expand and include other lottery formats as the CLC evaluates player responses and navigates regulatory guidelines. The precise date for the full launch has yet to be disclosed, as the CLC focuses on resolving initial issues and optimizing the platform for its users.

Connecticut lottery players can anticipate greater convenience and accessibility as the CLC adapts to digital trends. The soft launch is just the beginning, with the CLC poised to enhance its services further and establish itself as a frontrunner in the state’s evolving gaming landscape.