The National Lottery will temporarily suspend its website and apps for 24 hours starting at 23:00 on January 24, 2024, as part of an initiative to enhance its digital services. During this downtime, players in the UK will need to rely on retail outlets to purchase tickets and check winning numbers. The system is expected to be back online by January 26, 2024.
The planned maintenance will affect all online games, including those on iOS and Android devices. Players will still be able to participate in the regular Lotto and Thunderball draws scheduled for 20:00 on January 24, but they will not have access to their online accounts once the shutdown begins. With 43,500 National Lottery retail outlets available across the UK, customers can visit local supermarkets, such as Tesco, Asda, and Sainsbury’s, to buy tickets and find out the results.
During the offline period, players who have purchased tickets in-store can still claim winnings of up to £500 directly at these outlets. The National Lottery encourages customers to prepare in advance, as the transition to a more user-friendly digital platform is underway.
Improvements and New Features on the Horizon
The National Lottery’s operator, Allwyn, is implementing these changes as part of its “transformation journey.” Upon the website and app’s return, users can expect a more streamlined experience, with a new payment interface and simplified processes for checking results, playing games, and claiming prizes.
Frequent users will notice video guides and FAQs addressing the key changes, ensuring a smooth transition. For those with auto-updates enabled, the new app version will download automatically, while others may be prompted to update upon their next login.
Allwyn is also introducing enhanced player protection measures. New customers will be required to set personal deposit and spending limits, and all players will be automatically logged out after 60 minutes of activity, followed by a 10-minute cooling off period. Instant game participants will receive regular 20-minute reality checks as a part of responsible gambling initiatives.
Future Goals for the National Lottery
Andria Vidler, Chief Executive of Allwyn, emphasized that these upgrades represent a significant step toward making the National Lottery more player-focused. “These much-needed digital upgrades mark another milestone in our transformation to make The National Lottery more player-focused, with new games, more winners, and greater support for Good Causes,” she stated.
Allwyn aims to double weekly returns to Good Causes from £30 million at the beginning of their license to £60 million by 2034. The company views the digital enhancements as a foundation for further exciting developments in the coming months.
As the National Lottery embarks on this transformation, players can anticipate a more engaging and secure gaming experience, reinforcing its commitment to community support and responsible gaming practices.
