New York Poker Apps – Best NY Real money Poker Apps
Poker clubs have been available in New York since the 19th century, meaning the Empire State has a rich card culture. Nowadays, residents can enjoy the game inside several commercial and tribal casinos, which offer big poker rooms along with a range of cash games and tournaments.
Unfortunately, the online version of the game still hasn’t been legalized in New York, although that might happen in the near future, as you’ll see further below. Even without any state-licensed possibilities, New Yorkers have two major internet-based options: sweepstake poker sites (for free) or offshore poker platforms (for real money).
Most sweepstake and offshore sites also offer mobile apps, and we’ll guide you through installing them and starting your online gambling journey. Read on.
Are Online Poker Apps Legal in New York?
Online poker is still not licensed in New York. However, we’d like to stress the word “still”, as there have been several attempts so far, though most of them have failed to pass muster. In other words, there’s an initiative to legalize the web-based version of the popular card game, so it can be expected that, sooner or later, a poker-related bill will gain enough traction to become law.
The last bill that failed was introduced in 2022, but it was reintroduced in 2023 by Assemblyman Gary Pretlow. This proposal aims to amend state law and redefine poker, introducing it as a game of skill rather than chance. This would pave the way for the legalization of poker sites.
Until that happens, enthusiasts in New York can opt to enjoy social and sweepstakes options (such as Global Poker) for free or join an offshore-licensed platform.
So, will you break any rules by joining an offshore site and downloading their app? The New York Penal Code section 225.00 defines gambling as staking or risking something of value on a game of chance. The trick here is that New York says you’re still gambling even if the game you’re betting on requires some skill.
However, there are no explicit bans on offshore websites, which means you don’t need to worry about registering on them. If you’re still not 100% sure whether it would be a good idea, make sure to consult your lawyer.
Best Real Money Poker Apps in New York
Our team of legal and poker experts has searched every nook and cranny of the web to find safe, secure, and trustworthy offshore platforms. Moreover, we have carefully analyzed available cash games and tournaments, bonuses, promotions, traffic, fishiness, loyalty programs, and more, excluding all options that haven’t met our strict criteria.
All of them accept players from New York and many other states, and some even accept players from other countries. Please check our selection carefully and pick the platform that meets your needs.
App | Available on Android | Available on iOS |
BetOnline | Yes | Yes |
Ignition Poker | Yes | Yes |
Everygame Poker | Yes | Yes |
Juicy Stakes Poker | Yes | Yes |
After thorough research, we have identified three exceptional poker apps that stand out among the rest. They are the epitome of excellence and outshine many US-licensed platforms. With a plethora of game options, generous bonuses, a bustling community of players, and a range of banking solutions, these apps provide everything you need for a fulfilling online gambling experience.
How to Download a Poker App in New York
If you’re set to hit the virtual felt from New York and prefer playing on the move, you’ll have to download a poker app for your device. In some cases, that won’t be necessary, as some sites have browser-based platforms. However, if you opt for one that features a stand-alone app, you are welcome to follow the guides below to kickstart your journey.
Downloading a Poker App on Your iPhone
- Go to the App Store on your iPhone.
- Find the poker app of your choice.
- Download it to your phone.
- Open the app and sign up.
- Deposit funds using one of the available payment options.
- Go to the game lobby and pick a cash game or tournament you’d like to play.
- Have fun!
Bear in mind that some poker platforms have a stand-alone app that isn’t featured on the App Store. In that case, you’ll have to follow the instructions provided by the platform itself.
Downloading a Poker App on Your Android
- Pick an online poker site from our guide.
- Find the poker app page and download the .apk file.
- Make sure to allow third-party installations and install the .apk file.
- Register and make a deposit.
- Claim the bonus and have fun.
In some cases, the app might be available via Google Play, but it’s not usually the case.
Other Resources
Final Thoughts
New York lawmakers might not have authorized the online version of the popular card game at the moment, but there is a legal push, so it’s only a matter of time before a poker legalization bill gains traction. Until then, you have several options, including playing at an offshore site. This can, in fact, be a very pleasurable experience, provided you stick to secure, trustworthy, and high-quality platforms. Many of them feature apps that can further improve your experience while testing your skills at the virtual felt.