The use of fruit images and symbols in slot machines come from a tradition in physical slots stretching back one hundred years ago.
Older slot machines, to circumnavigate anti-gambling laws in the early 20th century, were marketed as “Chewing Gum Dispensers” – and instead of giving out payouts in cash, the player was rewarded with flavored chewing gum. The fruit images were indicative of the flavor of chewing gum that could be won – cherries meant cherry flavor gum for example. This tradition continued after the laws were abolished, and the use of fruit imagery is a nod to gambling history on the part of the manufacturer.