Ultimate Poker: To HUD or Not to HUD?

Ultimate Poker launched in late April without hand histories, a decision likely driven by both technical necessities and a cautious approach toward the potential by-products of hand histories such as data mining and heads-up-displays.

Now it appears that (limited) hand histories are on the horizon at Ultimate. And support for HUDs seems to be on the table as well.

That’s per tweets from Chris Danek, Ultimate’s Poker Product Manager:

@hpoker Amongst people who want them, there's a definite desire for them. We plan to have strong HHs – (con't)

— Chris Danek (@cdanek) June 3, 2013

@_tizzle @hpoker I also forgot, it's not a problem if we prevent observer HHs. You only [should] get a HH if you were dealt into the hand.

— Chris Danek (@cdanek) June 4, 2013

Danek also suggested that the issue of supporting HUDs was in play at Ultimate HQ:

RTs appreciated. HUDs or no HUDs on @UltimatePoker? Your opinion matters.

— Chris Danek (@cdanek) June 4, 2013

Would HUDs be legal in Nevada?

Even if Ultimate does eventually offer support for HUDs, it’s quite possible that current Nevada law outlaws their use:

NRS 465.075 Use of device for calculating probabilities.
It is unlawful for any person at a licensed gaming establishment to use, or possess with the intent to use, any device to assist:
1. In projecting the outcome of the game;
2. In keeping track of the cards played;
3. In analyzing the probability of the occurrence of an event relating to the game; or
4. In analyzing the strategy for playing or betting to be used in the game,
except as permitted by the commission.

Nos. 2 and 4 seem particularly problematic for HUDs and tracking software in general. Obviously NV regulators could tweak regulations for online gambling to clarify the situation.

Head to Danek’s Twitter to see the whole debate.