NOVOMATIC at ICE Barcelona 2026

ICE 2026 marked a significant milestone for NOVOMATIC. As the largest exhibitor, the company showcased its integrated 360-degree portfolio across more than 4,500 sqm, demonstrating seamless interaction between hardware, gaming content, and system solutions.

 “The exhibition was not only a powerful technology showcase but also a highly productive platform for tangible business opportunities. We strengthened long-standing partnerships and initiated numerous new projects across multiple jurisdictions. The strong international response confirms that our strategic direction and end-to-end approach align closely with the evolving needs of the global gaming industry,” Thomas Schmalzer said, in Q&A with SoloAzar.


 

Quality of Audience and Contacts

The quality of the audience was exceptionally high, with senior decision-makers, operators, and technology partners from around the world engaging in strategic, forward-looking conversations. Discussions focused on operational efficiency, player engagement, and scalable system architectures, underscoring the industry’s growing demand for integrated, future-proof solutions rather than isolated products.

Products and Solutions Presented

NOVOMATIC showcased its full 360-degree portfolio. Premium cabinet lines drew particular attention, including the V.I.P. X Galaxy™ 2.65 and the newly introduced V.I.P. X Galaxy™ Lounge 2.65, which offers an immersive experience in a compact footprint with its innovative Mamba seating solution. The DIAMOND X™ QUATTRO 1.55J also attracted strong interest thanks to its advanced display technology, refined glass touch deck, and powerful sound design.



“In the games segment, VISION LINK™ and XTENSION LINK™ Volume 5 introduced new approaches to linked progressives and player engagement, while IMPERA PROLINK™ 2 and RISING TREASURES™ II highlighted feature-rich gameplay and proven brand extensions. On the systems side, Novo Unity™ Pro reinforced its leadership in Electronic Table Games, and NOVOVISION™ stood out as a strategic backbone for modern casino management through real-time analytics and seamless integration,” he added.

Industry Trends Shaping the Future

Several key themes emerged at ICE Barcelona 2026. “First, the demand for fully integrated ecosystems is accelerating, as operators seek unified platforms that connect cabinets, content, and management systems. Second, player engagement models are evolving toward more immersive, feature-driven experiences supported by advanced jackpot mechanics and linked progressives. Third, data-driven operations are becoming essential; real-time analytics and system intelligence are now central to optimizing floor performance. Finally, sustainability initiatives are gaining momentum, reflecting a broader industry commitment to responsible growth and energy-efficient technologies,” Schmalzer described.

Strategic Priorities for 2026

NOVOMATIC’s strategic priorities remain centered on innovation, integration, and market responsiveness. “We will continue to expand our premium cabinet portfolio, enhance our linked progressive ecosystems, and further develop our system intelligence capabilities. A strong focus will be placed on modular solutions that allow operators to adapt quickly to changing regulatory and market conditions. To discover what we have planned for next year, we invite you to join us at ICE 2027,” Thomas Schmalzer said.

Market Expansion Plans

Expanding its global footprint remains a core objective for NOVOMATIC in 2026. “We are actively evaluating opportunities in emerging markets while reinforcing our presence in established jurisdictions. Our decisions are guided by regulatory stability, market maturity, and the potential for long-term partnerships. Equally important is our ability to deliver localized solutions that address specific operational and cultural requirements. Our presence in more than 130 markets provides a strong foundation for sustainable and strategic growth, he concluded.