Polymarket Waitlist Tops 1 Million as U.S. App Rolls Out in Beta

The prediction markets company recently launched its U.S.-specific iOS app in a restricted beta, initially allowing only a small group of users to participate. Access remains tightly controlled, with most users placed in a long queue unless they receive an invite code and meet entry requirements.

Despite those limitations, interest has surged. The app is currently operating as a "sports-first" experience, focusing on event-based markets tied to major competitions, with broader categories expected to follow later.

Industry data suggests Polymarket is already gaining ground against competitors. Journalist Dustin Gouker noted that during a recent market tied to The Masters, Polymarket's U.S. platform generated roughly $255 million in trading volume, more than half of rival Kalshi's $460 million on the same event. Those figures do not include Polymarket's separate decentralized platform, which operates globally.

The relaunch marks a significant moment for the company, which re-entered the U.S. market after resolving regulatory issues tied to a 2022 enforcement action. Since then, Polymarket has positioned itself as a fully compliant platform under federal oversight, though its availability remains limited in several states.

For now, the app is only accessible via mobile and primarily supports sports-related markets. However, the company has signaled plans to expand into politics, culture, and other categories once the rollout progresses further.