What is the Future of Disney MagicBands?
With all the changes happening in Walt Disney World, the entire guest experience is going to be different in the next couple of years. Recently Disney announced that it is eliminating complimentary MagicBands to resort guests starting in 2021.
(UPDATE) - Since writing this article, Disney has announced the MagicBand+ which is coming soon. Read our Full Guide to MagicBand+ for more info.
What does this mean for the future of Disney's MagicBands?
In this post we will go over the new changes to the MagicBand system and what it means moving forward. We'll talk about whether or not this means MagicBands are going away for good and if so what could replace them in the future.
Whether we like it or not, MagicBands are evolving in 2021 and beyond. Here's a rundown of what to expect.
Also, don't forget to sign up for our FREE Weekly E-Mail Newsletter. There we bring you the latest MagicBand updates as well as our best Disney vacation planning tips. You can sign up here: Join our E-Mail Newsletter!
Table of Contents
MagicBands No Longer Offered Complimentary to Disney World Guests
Starting today, January 1, 2021, MagicBands are no longer being provided complimentary to Walt Disney World guests. This puts into effect what was originally announced back in June 2020 as part of a movement to due away with the MagicBand system.
Guests looking for MagicBand functionality like charging to their room, park entry and room entry now have the following options:
- Use an old MagicBand from a previous stay
- Purchase a new MagicBand (Online before arrival or at Walt Disney World)
- Use a "Key to the World" Card (Available at your Disney World Resort hotel upon arrival)
Just to be clear, MagicBands still work and Disney is still allowing guests to use them, they just aren't sent to guests free before their vacation as in the past.
In the rest of the article we've outlined what the future of MagicBands could be as Disney starts phasing them out.
What's Changing?
Disney World recently announced that they will no longer be offering complimentary MagicBands starting with arrivals January 1, 2021, and beyond.
That means those rectangular boxes that come in the mail weeks before your Walt Disney World vacation and let you know you are almost back home again, you won't be getting them anymore.
This might be a surprising move to some due to the importance MagicBands have had in a Disney World vacation over the last few years. Think back to 2013 when MagicBands were introduced to the world. Disney invested over $1 billion dollars into the MyDisney+ system which brought us MagicBands as we know them today.
This system uses RFID technology and a long-range radio. MagicBands send out thousands of signals and allow computers to analyze real-time data of guests' movement and are designed to bring you the best possible guest experience while in the parks.
MagicBands work together with My Disney Experience and FastPass+ and function as hotel room keys, park tickets and credit cards for charging all those amazing Disney snacks!
MagicBands come in all colors and special designs and have been given to tens of millions of guests over the past 7 years.
Even though we can't imagine a visit to Walt Disney World without one, Disney has been working on phasing out MagicBands for some time now. That's why they have announced this change to stop offering free MagicBands to resort guests. Those little packages that immediately bring a smile to your face will stop coming in 2021.
What Is Replacing MagicBands?
Instead of promoting MagicBands, Disney is unveiling a new innovative offering as part of the My Disney Experience app which will handle the same functions that MagicBands now do, plus more.
According to wdwmagic, in collaboration with Apple, Disney is planning on using Near Field Communication technology (NFC) to leverage the Apple Wallet system. Apple has already been testing NFC technology with good results in American college campuses where it is currently used by over 100,000 students.
This contactless system is similar to how MagicBands work and will allow you to charge purchases in Disney World, as well as using it as your park ticket, and for things like FastPass+.
That means you will soon be able to use an Apple Watch or iPhone to handle all these tasks on your vacation. NFC technology isn't only limited to Apple thankfully, Android phones and devices similar to the Apple Watch will be able to be used by guests in Disney World.
Since publishing this article, new info has been released about the Disney MagicMobile service, the eventual replacement to MagicBands. Make sure to read that post for more details.
Advantages to Keeping MagicBands in Disney World
So what are the downsides to this new technology and MagicBand replacement?
Door Locks - The first thing is NFC technology is not currently compatible with Disney World's door lock system. That means a device like the Apple Watch wouldn't work to open room doors and guests would have to use the My Disney Experience app on their phones. That is doable, but brings up our next issue...battery life.
Battery Life - One nice thing about Disney MagicBands is that there is no battery required and guest don't have to charge another device. Just slip your MagicBand on and you know you are good to go all day with no problems. Having to use your smartphone in place of a MagicBand will further tax its battery which guests already have to worry about.
Imagine the complaints if you arrive back at the room and your only way to open the door now has a dead battery. There will be a lot of fit Cast Members running back and forth from the front desk to guest rooms to open doors.
MagicBands are easy for kids - Another downside to switching away from MagicBands is that not all kids have smartphones or Apple Watches. In that case I guess the parents will have their children's tickets on their devices, though this makes it a lot more difficult when families split up in the parks to go off and do different things. They can also use a card, but MagicBands are much more fun for kids than a card is.
MagicBands are more convenient - Let's face it, you don't always want to carry around your cell phone with you in Disney World. For example, If I'm just hanging out by the pool for the day I often leave my phone back in the room for fear of it getting stolen near the pool. I don't bring my phone to the gym in Disney World either, or sometimes just to walk around my resort.
This new system would require guests to have their mobile device now with them all the time which is an inconvenience.
Being Inside the "Disney Bubble" - MagicBands are great because they remind you that you are in the most magical place on Earth and away from the outside world. The reduce the need for other devices like mobile phones which distract you and work against the immersive environment Disney works so hard to create. That's why it feels so bad when you have to take off your MagicBand at the end of your trip!
Will MagicBands Be Eliminated Entirely?
For now, Disney will continue to offer MagicBands as an option to guests. They realize the above points are important for guests and therefore will continue to support MagicBands and cards.
They won't be offered free to guests anymore, but guests will still be able to purchase use MagicBands throughout retail locations in Walt Disney World. Disney has even said they will be offering them at a discount including new designs and colors to choose from.
That said, it's clear that the entire MyDisney+ system is not long for this world. Disney wants to make a shift away from MagicBands and they've already made that clear. In the coming years, more and more guests will have smart devices making the transition easier to do.
Just the fact that Disney is offering them at a discount should tell you all that you need to know. It sounds like they want to get rid of the inventory they have until the system is phased out. Who even knows if FastPass+ is coming back or if that is getting phased out too.
In the long run it will save the company money by not having to give away tens of millions of MagicBands per year, not to mention it will be better for the environment saving landfills from those same millions of bands.
Right now we don't know how long this transition will take and when Disney will completely eliminate the MagicBand system. It will take some time to get guests used to the changes so we imagine MagicBands will still be around for the next couple of years. After that, all bets are off.
This is a developing story, expect more info soon. Stay tuned...
If you are interested in finding out when more changes are made to MagicBands, don't forget to sign up for our FREE Weekly E-Mail Newsletter. We will update you on this and other Disney Planning Tips. You can sign up here: Join our E-Mail Newsletter!
Your Thoughts
I want to know what you think about Disney replacing MagicBands...
- What do you think about phasing out MagicBands?
- Is it a good idea?
Let us know in the comments section below!
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My name is Ziggy and I love Disney, everything Disney! I grew up on Disney and it has and continues to be a huge part of my life. I started young when my parents took me to Disney World when I was 18 months old. Little did they know that would be the first of an uncountable number of trips we would take. I have so many amazing memories going to Disney with my family and friends and it has been interwoven into my DNA.
Disney Corp is pissing me off more and more each day!
I agree!!
I agree!! It use to be a magical place,but it's not so much magical anymore. I think the new CEO needs to go back we're he came from. It's just to many changes during this difficult year. We're also returning guest ever year and sometimes multiple times,but I think it's pretty much has come to a end and I'm pretty sure Walt Disney whouldnt want this!!
I love Magic Bands! I was looking forward to going..not so much any more. Too many changes.?
I agree with you. We had our trip cancelled this year, I was so disappointed and now with so many changes I don’t know if I will ever want to book again.
What about kids who use them to get in and out of their rooms and purchase snacks, but don't carry a cellphone?
That’s exactly what I was going to say. I refuse to give my cell phone to a child (whether our own or a relative on vacation) to come in and out of the room for whatever, including bathroom needs, changing in and out of swimsuits, items forgotten before leaving, wanting drink or snack, etc. Giving my phone includes giving password so phone will activate, which also means access to Apple Pay and everything else I have on there. No....I will not do it.
Exactly! And are you gonna trust a kid won't lose the "card"? The folks at Disney need to think this through more.
I like this new idea that Disney World is having. Remember that all the other Disney theme parks don't use a magicians and they don't have a problem with that so think about that.
I agree, we are going to Disney with our kids for the first time next year and are really excited about the Magic Bands. Our kids are too young for their own phones and it gives us a feeling of safety knowing if we get separated, park employees can get our phone info from the bands. I’m not sure I would be comfortable going without them.
Hi Mindy, thanks for commenting. I think you should be ok by next year and you'll still be able to use the MagicBands
They’re taking away a smoothly running system and making us even more dependent on our phone. The bands were great because you could use them for so many things: room key, meal plan, purchases, attractions, and they were comfortable enough to wear all day. What if your phone shuts down due to low battery? What if the wifi or the app is slow? You get kicked off the Disney wifi a million times a day. (P.S.: love and miss Disney, but I’m starting to wonder if I’ll ever go back.)
Magic Bands were just that. Magic and you could all wander about and enjoy the parks without worrying about anything. The more we rely on mobile phones, the more the magic goes. Disney are losing the plot of people wanting a carefree family experience. Not having to worry about whether your phone is charged. Shame.
I agree I don't have a smartphone, not planning to have one. It's so much easier with a magic band on your wrist and your child's wrist. Maybe Universal is looking a lot better. I have a lot to think about no matter how much I love Disney. I wonder what Mr. Walt Disney would think about this, he loved keeping it magical and keep it the happiest place on earth.
Ditching my phone for a week was part of the joy of being on a Disney Vacation. I would get it out from time to time to check wait times or take pics, but I purposely keep it put away for as much of the vacation as I can. Now I will have to get it out constantly throughout the day and it is inevitable you end up checking emails, text, etc. And as as others pointed out service issues, having to carry your phone everywhere you go, making sure it is charged at all times.
And what about at the water parks? Im not going back to the locker every single time - not loving this decision....
Don’t want to compare Disney to other parks. Disney is suppose to be better. Where is all the personal touches that make you the best.
So if you have a fast pass, well I guess if they continue allowing those, and you need use your phone but you don't want to take your phone on space mountain you now don't have a choice your phone is riding with you. I often leave it with members of the party not riding.
That key to the world looks like it's going to be a very popular option for a lot of parties as an alternative to a cell phone
Another thought is what if you don't take your phone to the pool and you need a magic band to get into your pool area?
I love the magic bands and once I get to Disney my band never comes off my wrist until my trip is over. They are comfortable to wear and very convenient for a quick trip to the store/gift shop in your hotel or a quick walk or a trip to the ice machine in your hotel....etc. Now you will have to take your phone everywhere you go!
I think they should keep wrist bands and have often wondered why they never added them to Disneyland in California because of the inconvenience of not having them.
Another fun widget gone, gone, gone. I suppose putting them onboard ships would be out of the question? Nope, better to sink ships instead. Makes perfect sense. They could have kept both bands and apps, use them together. Nope, too much logic. By the way, Nautilus was contacted. Nemo has a contract of sinking Disney ships. Walt, sorry, but the mouse is under way of being wiped out. After the cruise line, one by one, all fun things of Disney must go. Command program Sark in charge of taking away fun. So says the MCP.
@John c w, They actually use magic bands in the kids clubs. You have to put down a credit card and they hold $29.99/band and the kids wear the whole time. It is a tracker basically on the ships, but that is a great idea to be able to open your door with it on ships instead of the cards (which I hate).
Dont do away with Magic Bands. My phone NEVER work on our door. My child doesn't have a cell phone and felt independent with her own Magic Band. Your stealing our magic away from us. I just bought $75 dollars worth if magic bands for what NOTHING I guess I bought a bracelet. KEEP THE MAGIC with MAGIC BANDS.
Please don’t do away with the Magicbands, they are so simple to use and saves having to carry cellphones and cash. They were so comfy and stylish to wear that we only took them off when we returned home, and a sad ceremony that was! Loved the fact that they were waterproof too so could wear them in the pools and water parks. Me and my kids loved choosing our own personalised bands... was all part of the excitement of planning our Disney vacation. I hate the thought of having to carry my cellphone everywhere now... for me, part of the Magic has gone. ?
Come on Disney ..dont ruin the excitement of magic bands. we look forward to receiving them in the mail knowing our trip is soon here ..love the convenience of them ..please keep them ..no changes
Ziggy ... can we start a petition to keep the Magicbands ... Bob Chapek needs to know how strongly we feel about this crazy idea!
I agree
I agree. I also don’t want to take a chance on dropping my cell phone on the concrete. The bands are super convenient!
I agree. Bob should know that we need to keep the MagicBands and that it is not something that is up for discussion.
Enough changes will be thrust upon us with this pandemic. Don't do away with the contactless wristbands now! Plus, it's great for young people who don't have cell phones. I would rethink this change
Love the magic bands! My iPhone works iffy when I’m there and I love not taking a purse so I don’t have to lose the card key out of my pocket.
Please readdress this. Stop spending time and money to revamp a system we all like and functions well.
it seems like wdw are losing the plot do they not know what we all like magic bands are fantastic conveniet and easy to use for everyone looks like bad changes now Bob Iger has gone
I'm guessing that Disney hasn't realized that not everyone owns (or wants to own) a smart phone. And not everyone who owns a smart phone has unlimited data (I don't). You can connect with Disney's wifi, but it's not always the most reliable. We've gotten service & haven't gotten it on the Disney buses, for example.
And pulling out your phone, bringing up the app, then finding the page on your app for what you need is going to take a bit longer than just scanning a Magic Band that's on your arm.
I can understand why it's a good idea for Disney, since the app isn't going to cost them what making & shipping Magic Bands will. But they keep taking away things guests have come to enjoy while at the same time constantly raising their rates for everything. They will soon outprice themselves.
What! the wristbands were a wonderful gift from you in appreciation of the thousands of dollars we spend while there. So you want to cheap out on us and keep charging us more. Bad form
I couldn’t agree any more!
Bad idea! Loved magic bands and thought they were so convienent. Don't like carrying phone if I don't have to.
We really prefer the Magic Bands. It was so much more practical than having to find a secure place for wallet, phone, etc. And I hate dragging a purse all over the park. Keep the bands!
Real shame about the magic bands, they made you feel part of the club. Had to cancel my vacation this year in July as we can’t fly from the UK and my daughter in law was coming for the first time as was so excited about getting one .. ?
This will probably shock people - but - I don't have a cell phone - and have never wanted one. What the heck am I supposed to do?? I am/was a Disney die hard fan....but I refuse to buy a phone just to go to Disney parks..... Please oh please - if you have to cancel the magic bands - come up with something else so we don't have to use a phone to go to the parks - I repeat - PLEASE OH PLEASE. .....not everyone is young and savy when it comes to technology.
Maybe they are giving all of us special “Disney phones” then upping the price.
Until a week ago I didn't have a smart phone, just a flip phone with no APP capabilities. what happens in that situation? Not everyone can afford a smart phone
Or in my case............even if I can afford it...............don't want it..........but I hear you and validate what you said.
Garder les magic Bands, je ne veux pas traîner mon téléphone et mon sac à main partout, non SVP pas pratique du tout
Magic bands will be a missed tradition. Loved their convenience and never had a problem with them. The old adage "if it isn't broke, don't fix it applies. PLEASE RECONSIDER--MORE THAN WILLING TO PAY FOR THEM--JUST DON'T ELIMINATE THEM!
I like this new idea that Disney World is having. Remember that all the other Disney theme parks don’t use a magicband they don’t have a problem with that so there is something to think about. Just enjoy that we still have Disney World.
?????????
Other parks do not use Magic Band BUT they DO NOT ’rely on smart phones. either. I am one that opposes the smart phone vs. Magic Band I hope they teconsider
True, the other parks still have the old ticket systems, correct?
I agree that making people reliant on their phones is a bad call. Cell signal sucks on property and having that many people on the wifi constantly will make that unreliable as well.
Plus does this mean international guests have to pay international roaming or get a burner phone for their vacation?
I, too, am disappointed with the discontinuation of Magic Bands! There are still many people out there who are not “smart phone” savvy. And I totally agree with not wanting to give my children my phone! Hopefully, they will reconsider or else come up with another plan.
Ditto what the others said. Magic Bands are very useful...you don’t need to carry anything because the band gets you in, pays for things etc. I hate taking a phone into the parks...to easy to lose, drop or get wet.
exactly!!!.... the fewer things we have to carry - the better.
So now we have to use our phone for entry an transactions then put it on my face! We love the bands! Too many unnecessary loses!
Doing away with the magic bands is a horrible idea! We don't want to carry our phones or have to get them out all the time and the same with cards! It will ne a disaster for kids!
I don't even own a smart phone, I have a flip phone and I am happy that my phone is dumber than I am! I found out that the new smart phone is an II at ONLY $1200!!!! That's dumb!! Why should I get a phone that does so many things besides call people?? I want to call people, that's all, and that's what a flip phone does, and it doesn't cost me money either. That's the nice thing about Magic Bands--I don't need to pay for them! They work great for the kids, and they can't ruin them. I agree, Disney has to rethink their idea about discontinuing the Magic Bands, just another idea to use the smart phone--why even bother to keep Disney up dated when everyone has their noses inside their phones?
I think you are my sister from another mister!! I agree with you - we are on the same page.....
Getting rid of the bands is a horrible idea! I'd never let a child "run around" with a smart phone. What about all the conveniences they supplied?!? They were waterproof so you didn't need to worry about them on water rides or swimming or even in the shower. I am VERY disappointed with Disney.
So sad, l agree with other Disney fans...please,please, don’t take the Magic Bands away.
I just bought them for my July trip that was cancelled...
I feel we have had so many losses this year.
So if you walk out of your room forget your phone inside then what a trip to the 6' waiting line ? Then if you get hacked you get rooked out of money and your park tickets ?
So lets say I'm not buying a $700 phone to convenience Disney or anyone else who thinks I should accomodate them !
And now I have to make a reservation to enter a park ! REALLY ?
SO NOW they will track you from your cell signal in the park for "customer convenience " at you expense of course ! Instead of magicbands that cost them money. MAGICAL !
PHONE DYING well just buy a $30 power stick at a machine if it works !
Or just go somewhere where your not treated like a client, to be cued and handled like a five year old. Told when and where you can eat, When it's your turn to ride a ride, pay extra to get a spot away from the masses for a show or parade thats part of your admission anyway.
Hell, you might as well just go to work, it's turned into the same thing ! And if you don't work in the city, you can park for free !
So if you walk out of your room forget your phone inside then what a trip to the 6' waiting line ? Then if you get hacked you get rooked out of money and your park tickets ?
So lets say I'm not buying a $700 phone to convenience Disney or anyone else who thinks I should accomodate them !
And now I have to make a reservation to enter a park ! REALLY ?
SO NOW they will track you from your cell signal in the park for "customer convenience " at your expense of course ! Instead of magicbands that cost them money. MAGICAL !
PHONE DYING well just buy a $30 power stick at a machine if it works !
Or just go somewhere where your not treated like a client, to be cued and handled like a five year old. Told when and where you can eat, When it's your turn to ride a ride, pay extra to get a spot away from the masses for a show or parade thats part of your admission anyway.
Hell, you might as well just go to work, it's turned into the same thing ! And if you don't work in the city, you can park for free !
One thing I forgot because I dont have 'em any more, lost children could be found by tracking a band, now the tyke better carry a credit card or a $700 IPhone BLING BLING mabey they can put an rdfi chip in pacifiers ?
A Mickey Mouse operation, for real !
We took one smart phone with us on our last visit because of the new Star Wars attraction opening and needing up-to-date info. Normally we'd never carry a phone with us for many reasons and are quite horrified at no longer being able to use the Wristbands. They've always been a highlight and somehow some of the magic has been removed from the Disney visits. It's all becoming more high tech, with the accent not so much on the fantasy side. Coming from the UK there are two less attractions for visiting the park. Smart phones can be very expensive to use and it seems there won't be the added bonus of free Disney dining plans either. Couple those and costs spiralling with flights and Disney accommodation and it looks like our trips will be a thing of the past. Wonderful memories from a bygone age.
@Jenni, and now they have announced that the Magical Express is no longer being used. How are visitors supposed to get from the airport to the resort? Oh yes, that's right, we now have to pay for a transfer or taxi. The magic is disappearing before our eyes.
@Michelle, yes just read that now have to pay for Uber or taxi now The magic is being taken away what kind of vacation is that
I like the Magic bands, and I refuse to give my cell phone to a child. I'm a DVC member but I have serious doubts if I wish to continue. There are other things I can do with my money that doesn't cause upset ment.
I really think magic bands help make the Disney trip more magical and more convenient! I don’t like being in my cell a lot during vacation.. It’s too easy for work to pop up and become pressing, because if I see something I can’t unsee it... Where if my phone is away I am less likely to see things... plus I love my bands! I have several of them with new ones on the way.
I hope Disney hears us
DISNEY ARE YOU LISTENING???
Magicbands are so much more convenient. Nothing to carry. It's waterproof and you don't have to keep it charged!! What do you do when to cell phone's battery dies?
I think they had better bring Iger back. This is turning into CF of biblical proportions.
???
So many changes. My die hard, side kick, 20 year old son Just said “Face it, the Disney that we knew is done. We had a lot of good years and it just hasn’t been the same anyway for awhile.” Literally ready to cry. We’ve been going together since he was 4. We always would do at least 3 trips a year but since we are only 2 hours away, sometimes we would just go for the day. I called today to request cancelling our annual passes that I renewed before they announced mandatory masks. We haven’t even used them yet (or been charged) so hopefully they will let us cancel them. With the new reservation system and the mandatory masks, we won’t be able to use them. I was told it may be weeks before I hear back. We had 2 trips that got cancelled in March and April and I will reschedule our September trip for next year as soon as they let us. Frustrating that I can’t modify a reservation until after July. I plan on asking for a magic band refund for my March and April trips as well. I really don’t need 60 dollars worth of magic bands now. Like many of you, just really sad.
Lots of panicking people on here. It doesn’t once say they are getting rid of Magic Bands. It says they will no longer be given for free. But one and all problems are solved. Or use a previous years one. They were like $14.99 when I went last year.
Louise - you just brought me back to reality. You made sense....I did panic when I "thought" I read that they were doing away with Magic Bands.....but it's just the "free ones" that they are talking about . Thank you for shedding some light on that - I was in a dilema - thinking about the fact that I didn't have a smart phone and wasn't willing to get one - so I am grateful for your post. I have now calmed down -and maybe after all of this COVID stuff is over - will travel again to my happy place. You have a good day...... and thanks again. Your cooler head prevailed. 🙂
The goal is to replace them completely. When Disney starts discounting an item, say MagicBands, it's phasing it out. I am by no means happy about this but the change is inevitable. It will take a few years to get the new system up and running but it's coming. They will have to offer an alternative to using a smart phone, my guess will be the already existing Key to the World Card. Again, this will take years...
“Instead of promoting MagicBands, Disney is unveiling a new innovative offering as part of the My Disney Experience app which will handle the same functions that MagicBands now do, plus more.” the article also says “since the entire system is being phased out” Yes they are not giving out complimentary bands after 2021 but in the article is says “Instead of using MagicBands, guests will be able to use their mobile devices with My Disney Experience or a Key to the World card during their visit.” I don’t know about you but that says they might be getting rid of it completely and the app or the card will be our only options.
I agree with csalt and just about everyone else .I've been a DVC member since 1993. I have seen many changes. Some good, many not so. From day 1 I thought Magic Bands was one of Disney's most clever ideas.. It's PERFECT!. I come to Disney to get away from the trappings of "normal" life drudges such as house keys,telephones, computers and definitely cell phones. The idea is a week of pure "MAGIC" If I'm expected to bring my normal behaviors with me, I might as well stay at home and sit in my back yard. (and it doesn't cost me any money).
DISNEY... SIT UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE!! Geezzz!
And pay for them? I guess we don't spend enough these days????
This. might be the straw that broke the camels back for me. Doing away with magic bands is one of the many dumbass moves Disney has made during this Hoax of all times in the name of public health. Hell just fit everyone in a bubble costume when they arrive. I’ve got Disney vacation points that will be worth nothing unless they come to their sense and return to Disney days of old. No ones will want to pay their high prices for half of an Original Disney experience.
This. might be the straw that broke the camels back for me. Doing away with magic bands is one of the many dumbass moves Disney has made during this Hoax of all times in the name of public health. Hell just fit everyone in a bubble costume when they arrive. I’ve got Disney vacation points that will be worth nothing unless they come to their sense and return to Disney days of old. No one will want to pay their high prices for half of an Original Disney experience.
Not all of us, European travellers have phones that work in the USA, if they do it is at a substantial cost.
That was one of the things I hated most about my last trip to WDW when you would check in at the podium for a dinner reservation and they would ask for your cell number to contact you when your table is ready. My mobile phone does not work on US systems so could not be contacted and had to have a pager. (They also looked at me like I was from another planet) I still found it a problem on several occasions by not having a Mobile that worked in the USA,
Also with the new reservation for getting into the parks where do we Europeans stand who have spend nearly $1K to fly from the UK get to Florida, travelled / Flown 12 hours or more, staying at a Disney owns a resort. (for 2 weeks)... What happens if the parks are full and we can't get in? I WAS planning a holiday to WDW but Hardly seems worth the hassle. Sorry Disney.
PS Also I am still 'Ticked' that my DLParis trip got cancelled in March. No offer of any sort from Disney as they did for those in the States, to rebook at WDW.
Quickly loosing Interest in Disney in General. I think I will spend my money elsewhere. ; (
Wonder if we can reuse the magic bands we have. We probably have 3 dozen of them. Don't see why we can't just reuse them. If we can't, what on earth are we going to do with them?
Hope they stay with them if we have them. Nothing like jumping in the pool, swimming to the pool bar, and ordering a drink, Can't swim over with your cell phone. Please keep them Disney. Let us use the ones we have!!!!
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This is a terrible idea, the wifi in Disney barely works I don't have unlimited data. I barely ever take my phone out except to look at wait times and to take pictures. And my children do have flip phones but not smart phones so since they are responsible enough to walk around Disney by themselves how will they go on rides and purchase items? How will they get into our hotel resort room. When I go to the pool I run the risk of my phone being stolen while I swim just so I can use it to get back to my room. Disney use you brain and think about what your doing for once. "Instead of promoting MagicBands, Disney is unveiling a new innovative offering as part of the My Disney Experience app which will handle the same functions that MagicBands now do, plus more." the article also says "since the entire system is being phased out" Yes they are not giving out complimentary bands after 2021 but in the article is says "Instead of using MagicBands, guests will be able to use their mobile devices with My Disney Experience or a Key to the World card during their visit." I don't know about you but that says they might be getting rid of it completely and the app or the card will be our only options.
Not happy about no magic bands. My phone already dies because I use it for photos and dining, etc. my child doesn’t have a cell phone and don’t plan on getting her one anytime soon. Keeping the key to world card, like they do at DisneyLand is aggravating. I missed my magic band when we visited in Cali. Because you need the key card and your phone, depending on what you’re doing, it forces you to either bring a charger with you everywhere you go, or a wallet so you can pay for everything and carry your key to the world card when your phone dies. Dumb decision IMO
This year just keep getting better. Had to cancel family vacation for 10 at Disney World on memorial Day weekend. And I thought I would be smart and get the bands earlier in the year. Now I have 10 wrist bands worth nothing. Plan on going in 2021 but with all restrictions at Disney now, maybe it will be Universal instead!!
My first trip was supposed to be this year now is postponed but was really looking forward to having a stress free vacation with the many cute designs of magic bands. My daughter took her 1st trip this year and had such joy picking and receiving her bands in the mail disappointing I won't get that joy Don't take away 1st timers joy DISNEY!!!
Stupid decision. Some people are not so stuck on their phone that this is an easy transition AND if your phone dies or it overheats or you lose signal or you throw it out of your pocket on a coaster, then what???
Do not end magicbands!! Why keep changing tradition?
Everyone does not want to carry their cellphones in the Florida heat. If it is hot and you have your cellphone in your bag it can burn up and no longer work. Just like if you leave your computer or cellphone in the car or have it on the beach. It will overheat and no longer work.
We go to Disney every chance we get and love the Magic Bands. I do not have access to the Disney Park App on my cellphone and can't get it on my Kindle. Plus I don't want to have to carry around a device all over the Parks. A few years ago when the magic bands came out it was pushed by Disney to replace the cards and use the bands which we did for everything. Now we have to go back to the cards or use the app. How inconvenient for those of us who don't use the app. Disney needs to rethink this and listen to those of us who have been loyal guests or DVC members for years. DON"T GET RID OF THE BANDS.
The reason for this is simple - it’s a money saver. This on top of all the changes and political correctness has clinched it - I am canceling my trip for January. So much for magic.
This is a dumb idea, not everyone carries cellphones, (children and older adults ) and those that do may not have the tech smarts to use or want to use while enjoying the “magic” of Disney.
I was still learning about the magic bands but my understanding was that if your child got lost, cast members could use the information on the magic band to find you. (Phone number, name, room, etc). What happens now? Not that I plan on getting separated from my kids but we all know how kids are. Also, I agree with some of the posts about water rides and pools - you don’t want your phone getting wet but as far as I understood, magic bands were waterproof.
I wished it would go the other way: we are taking a Disney cruise and going to the parks all in one vacation. I was hoping that the cruises would start having Magic Bands as well, instead of wearing a card on a lanyard everywhere. Like at the beach or pool... Not too pleased to hear that nowhere will have the bands.
Horrible move! I never keep my phone with me on vacation! I am a Club 33 member and I am disgusted at this thought! If it costing the company so much money, offer them for sell when not staying on property, and pump the already outrageous room prices up some more. What I don't understand is why when you are a returning guest do the send out more? I know they started asking on the app when booking if you wanted a MB - We visited monthly (before C19) and used the same MB over and over - the data transfers anyway! I am not taking my phone to the water parks or the pools! BAD BAD thought process Disney!
Please, keep the Magic Bands. They make our trips more enjoyable.
Magic bands are awesome, and so easy for every age to use. Why make it more technical and difficult?. Our Disney trip got cancelled this year. If there’s too many changes in the future, we may skip going altogether. Keep the magic bands.....PLEASE??!!
I find this news very disappointing! When I am on vacation I do not want to be tied to my phone! I appreciate putting on my Magic Band and knowing that's all I need whether I am going to the pool, a park, eating a snack/meal, or shopping! We also enjoy using Memory Maker! I can't imagine a phone app being anywhere near as convenient as a Magic Band!
I like the Magic Band System, especially for the kids. Kids as young as 3 know that the Magic Bands are important. to get all kinds of things, like food and admittance to the Parks. I spend a lot of time watching people, and those Magic Bands seem to give kids just the right amount of freedom. My two year old thought she was "hot stuff" for having a Magic Band, and when going into the Park she insisted on offering her arm to the Disney personnel instead of Mom or Dad. Going to the pool also worked well because Magic Bands were water proof. I would resent having to get a smart phone--I have an old-school flip phone, but but I am definitely against giving Apple more money just to go to the Disney Parks. No, I am just NOT going to do that! I would pay for a Magic Band, if I had to, but not a cell phone to help Apple's bottom line!!
I go to Disney to get away from the phone. I don’t want to rely on a battery operated device. I’m a member of DVC and I’m tired if the changes This one is not for the better. If it’s a cost thing let us buy the bands. I’d rather do that then rely on my phone. There are to many moving parts. It’s different being in the park than on a college campus. Different ages Different activities Different situations. Maybe I’ll vacation somewhere else. You are making things more complicated I go on vacation to relax. I want traditions to stay. I want my children’s children to recognize the Disney I know
Even Goofy would recognize what a dumb idea it is to switch from total convenience of magic bands to absolute inconvenience of cell phones. Disney use to be about making DW vacation magical for the guests; now, it's all about a bigger profit for Disney (AND Apple). Well, hope you save enough in discontinuing those free magic bands to make up for all the guests you're going to lose as a result of your greedy bad decision. It will also cost you participants in the various Disney races since so many of us include DW park visits when registering for a race.
Unlike years past, there are now plenty of great Orlando alternatives to Disney parks for vacationing. This retiree will forego purchasing another DW annual pass with trips from PA to DW every two months and opt for the alternatives. How fitting that the pixie dust once making Disney such a magical place has now been blown away by a villain named Bob Chapek. Time for a hero to step in & save the day, bringing back the magic!
Iger is back at the helm now and I am not sure we will see him leave that post. (Fingers Crossed) Chapek has not done Disney any favors and the executives and power players know this. I would truly be surprised to see Iger walk away again, he is going to be seen as the man who single handily saved Disney - post Covid. Either you are disney material or you are not...
Iger is back at the helm now and I am not sure we will see him NOT leave that post.
We haven't visited Disney World in many years so have never had the chance to use the Magic Bands. We're now planning a two-week Disney trip to celebrate our 50th Anniversary (in 2022) that will begin with a week in Disney World. I rarely use my cellphone (I get great battery life by keeping it turned off most of the time), so using a Magic Band would be so much more convenient and easy for me. Guess I'll just have to keep my fingers crossed that the bands will still be available in January 2022. AARGH!!!
Hi Barbara, thanks for the comment. I think there is still a good chance they will be around in 2022 so I wouldn't worry too much. I hope you have a wonderful trip!
Magic bands are wonderful. I like the fact that I don't have to take my phone to the pool, etc. Also, they are really easy to use and the systm works so well. I'd even be willing to have to purchase the band. Why change something that is working well?
I've noticed that Disney is becoming greedy with money. We used to go every 3 years and can no longer do that because of the cost of tickets, etc. A normal family cam no lo get afford to go. It has turned into a once in a lifetime trip for some families. Walt wanted it to be accessible to all families. He is probably turning over in his grave with all of the recent changes.
Hi Marla, for sure there have been a ton of changes. I think some of them have been unavoidable this year due to what's going on in the world, but it is difficult no doubt. You have a right to be concerned as it has gotten much more expensive and they've turned away from regular families to higher-paying customers more and more. Let's hope it doesn't get too much more out of hand
Our family always thought of Disney world as our special place. Disney has changed so much over the past few years, it’s getting harder and harder to enjoy. Rising prices, no more this, no more that. We may change our special time to something else. May Caribbean resorts, or a beach resort instead. I think Walt Disney himself would be disappointed in the direction they’re going.
Keep the magic bands even if we have a small fee to get them my phone is constantly dead and using it for all that would be a pain it’s huge I have no pockets as a women and again my phone does not last a full day so this would be a pain and me being a mom don’t need more issues after a long day of parks .
Love magic bands. Can't see going to Typhoon Lagoon with just my cell phone on me.
Hope they keep them as they are so convenient. Would be sad to see them go. 🙁
Terrible idea, the bands are great, and not everyone has a phone, not to mention the inconvenience of using a bulky phone to get access to rides.. Worst planning in a long time for Disney. Always looking for a way to charge their customers more. BAD!
We are Annual Pass holders and love the bands. I am concerned about the older Mouse lovers are not technically able to do this on cell phones or don’t know how to load an app. I would hate to loose the convenience of having the band on for room entry
Can you use a magic band that you had used in the past? If so, how does that work to make sure Disney knows you are using a magic band - to bad they are doing this - this is the best thing Disney ever did - so easy to use and kids loved it - they felt important - they should have checked with the users before doing more corporate stuff. To bad!!
Magic bands need to stay! It’s the most convenient way for people to have everything in one place and not have to carry around a lot of cards or cell phones, etc.
Discontinuing the Magic Bands is a huge mistake. Unless they provide a superior system in it’s place this is several steps backwards in customer service. Which Disney has historically been known for providing! What are they thinking with this proposed change? I do not want to be dependent on a mobile phone while on vacation in their park! Where’s the magic in that? Certainly there are other considerations in play here but really, is it that good of an idea? There must be another way they can reduce costs, be environmentally friendly, introduce greater inter attraction and continue satisfying their customers desires.
Jeff in Detroit
@Jeffrey A Dornbush,
Magic Bands are simple. That's what makes them great.
Replacing with mobiles is complicated. Part of my holiday is to put my phone down.
☹️
Using cell phones is just crazy. Magic bands are really great and the kids LOVE THEM. What a shame!! They are on you at all times, you can leave them on when you are swimming, you don't have to worry misplacing it on a ride or somewhere else. Should be interesting to see how many people are mad about this.
I love the magicbands, but I will try to look at the bright side of the phase out. It sounds like we don't HAVE to use our phones, we can get a key card as an alternative. So instead of picking out our band designs before a trip, we will enjoy picking out fun lanyards together.
We can also sleep well knowing the change is good for the environment with these battery bands being thrown out by many. I can also make one of those cool magicband wreaths I've seen on pinterest with my collection knowing I wont be able to use them again in the future.
It will all be ok if we just think happy thoughts.
part of the MAGIC is the magic bands! My kids love them and have collected them over the years. First they did away with the electrical parade, and now this- NO WAY! As a stock holder for Disney, I say keep them forever!
Per the Magic Bands. I do not have children to be concerned with but Disney needs to take parents in consideration when making the changes for communication thru an Apple Watch/Cell Phone etc... I can understand their concerns. Maybe Disney can offer the option to either buy Magic Bands and/or use your Apple phone/watch. If you wish to buy the Magic Bands than families, can, others that wish to save a few dollars just use their phones/watches. Not sure how that would work financially for Disney because unfortunately most everything revolves around money. Walt Disney wanted his parks to be part of a family's FANTASY to be at when visiting, there should always be some special Disney Magic in the air. As a season passholder, I can tell you that the Magic is not as it once was in years past. Disney CEO, please consider making Disney once again the happiest place to be in the world. I think Walt would want you to do that.
It once was you know.
Hello Ziggy. Happy and healthy New Year!
I agree with most comments here about keeping the Magic Bands or at least, offer as an upgrade option to customers who are willing to pay for them.
We have 5 sets of these bands which we used between 2013 and 2019....we love how they look, how we love choosing the colors, how we have lost them and had them so easily replaced at the Waterpark and resort pool, and at Epcot.
Also loved how handy they were when we were running late for a FastPass ride and all 4 of us ran up to the attendant scanner in the nick of time, swiped and got in within our time slot; love how we can leave the boys at the arcade and ice cream parlor and they can enter our room without keys or cards; love how we can purchase goods, charge to our room, how the boys can purchase on their own without our constant supervision. We can swipe for our meal plan reservations and snacks too.
We love to wear them every day from the time we receive them at check-in at the beginning of our vacation to when we take them off and get to Georgia on our long drive back home to Canada.
When we get back home, they go into a scrapbook that Mommy makes with all of photos and memories.
It became a tradition for us and even though we knew that Disney uses them as tracking devices, we wore them confidently and it added an extra measure of security for us as parents in the event that our kids got separated from us or got lost, provided that the bands were on their wrists or in their backpacks on Disney Property. We even bought Star Wars themed bands one year as souvenirs.
They are convenient, comfortable, hold alot of personal information, hold all of our plans, rides, time schedules, meal and dinner reservation, character meet and greet plans, and the ability to charge goods, snacks and meals without taking any credit cards, cash or wallets or room keys with us. They are practical, useful, efficient and amazingly MAGICAL.... that's why they were called Magic Bands!!!
BOB CHAPEK...PLEASE RECONSIDER KEEPING THEM ALIVE AND WELL...THEY HAVE WORKED FOR THE PAST 7 YEARS VERY WELL FOR WHAT THEY WERE INTENDED FOR...CHARGE US PEOPLE WHO ARE WILLING TO PAY FOR THIS, JUST CALL IT A SERVICE UPGRADE or something like that.
This is just the opinion of me and my family members who have visited Walt Disney World for the past 17 years and 24 separate all inclusive vacations at your resorts. You can call us experienced and veterans of Walt Disney World Guests.
If W.W.W. continues with all these drastic cutbacks, cancelations and closures, it is likely that our last Christmas 2019 all inclusive vacation could have been our last vacation there. Universal Studios is already looking more lucrative to us. HINT HINT. Please think this out and reconsider.
Thank you. All the best.
i do not understand why disney won't let the guests are no longer get free enter. i have been planning to go back to the disney world, do i use smartphone or magicband to get in any disney parks and hotel room? please anyone comment on my question. thanks.
Just to let you know, MagicBands do contain batteries. I seems the first generation lasted around 5 years or more, depending upon how much use they had. I have not seen a new generation one go bad.
There are a dozen very good reasons to keep Magic Bands, as detailed in these posts. A poor decision to stop a well loved system that works so well for parents and children too. We have been visiting WDW from the UK for over twenty years now, and hope to again COVID permitting, but the Magical experience has slowly been eroded by a creeping corporate influence. I wonder what Walt would think of these changes. Please keep the Magic Bands, ‘if it’s not broken don’t mend it!’
Paul Clapp, Devon ???????
Losing magic bands is bad ideas for two reasons mentioned above battery life and kids. They will need to provide free charging all along the very long lines at Disney! Also—we are actually on the way home from Disney—my sister lost her phone on Rockin Roller Coaster—what happens then??? She got her phone back but it took 2 days—how would she get in the room or do anything if ties to phone only?
I love MagicBands! Another item on the list of conveniences are the photo oops and Memory Maker. I don't miss the day of having to root through my purse to find the Memory Maker card. And like others have stated, I have an issue with the battery life on my Android device, so I don't want to use it for more than I need to when on vacation. Not happy at all with Disney on some of these changes. They don't seem family-friendly at all.
The Magic Bands were a proven flawless system. Not sure why it needs to be eliminated and replaced with a difficult solution? It's expecting a lot of guests to use and depend on their phone all day. Not to mention to have the battery last all day and have WIFI when you need it to work continuously. People are vacationing to escape their difficult days and all that goes along with screen time not be frustrated by the same annoyances they have back home. People are paying a fortune to vacation at WDW & experiencing the magical feel is what people love so much about it. Losing that main component is going to make people not want to return. Not a fan of the change at all and could think of a gazillion negatives!!
Everyone seems to be sure that Disney are certainly getting rid of magic bands for good but they haven't said that yet, have they?! Hopefully they've just realised that giving them out to everyone staying in a Disney hotel is bad for the environment, as well as their costs, when some people go several times a year and could re-use them. Can't see why they can't keep them in use for those of us who don't want to use our phones.
I can't see how using phones would always work - I'm from the UK (and buy magic bands because we don't stay onsite) so we don't have data to use in the US meaning we rely on the free WiFi in the parks, so if that fails we'd be unable to use our FPs. Plus I could imagine queues building while people dig around for their phones in their bags and try to load the app.
If they use the same technology surely we can choose what's most convenient for us/our children.
Terrible idea. Disney wants you to use we codes and apps but it’s not as easy as they think, it’s cumbersome, it’s just not practical. One thing for sure, saved me mo way. If I had a smart and on it’s easier and faster to charge. Helped control my spending without having them.
DO NOT GET RID OF THEM!!! It is way more convenient than anything else and my kids love them (heck my husband and I as well). It makes us be a part of the most magical place on earth. We decorate and design our magic bands so the kids will not be happy they're gone 🙁
Disney is our time away from the outside world. We are older and honestly struggle somewhat with technology and especially on a tiny screen in the sun or on a bad weather day. I can imagine everyone walking around with their nose in their phone. Disney is beautiful and happy. I want to walk around and take it all in. Plus you will have to take time to recharge your phone. I’m stressing a little with all the changes I’m going to encounter in March 2022. I’m still adjusting to no more Magical Express.
We love magic bands! They create a lot of the magic and i definitely dont want to have to use my phone for these things ughhhh!
What if you don't have a cephone ir device or an uo to date one to the this function hows that going to work out
ok, what about people who don't use smart phones ? and love disney?
btw, did you know Disney once sued a family for using cutouts of disney characters at a kids birthday party???
I have always enjoyed my visits to Disneyworld but I must admit I’m disappointed with some of the upcoming changes, in particular the discontinuation of magic bands and the magical express transportation. I honestly believe these are cost reduction actions even though they are being presented as positive changes. I don’t want to walk around with my phone to be able to do what a magic band provides. The fact that in the interim that I can purchase a band so you depleted your inventory is insulting. I also don’t believe that arranging my own transportation from the airport to my Disney resort and back to the airport is better then the magic express. Now I have to rent a car or secure a ride via Lyft or Uber, not efficient when your traveling with an extended family. With that said I do not believe Disney will be compensating their guests with a price reduction on anything for the lack of these benefits. I have been contemplating a visit in 2022 with my children and their families however these changes have made me rethink if I want to spend money at Disney or invest elsewhere for our family trip. I believe Disney may want to re-evaluate some of their plans taking into consideration their guests as opposed to always looking at the financials.
Why does Disney insist on removing the magic? It seems that they are constantly taking away things that make the visit to WDW unique. At some point soon, I will be choosing Universal or Six Flags to spend my vacation money.
We’re going in 2025 and I REALLY hope they still have magic bands. I don’t want to use my phone all day and worry about keeping it charged. Am I supposed to load up my purse with portable charging sticks? Wait in yet more lines for a charging station? How obnoxious.
I think they should keep them. Carrying a phone in your back pocket all day going on rides isn't fun.
Really bummed to see that Disney is getting rid of the Magic Band system. It's so convenient. I wonder how this is going impact the use of the photopass. It's so easy to have the cast member scan your band as well as getting your photos on all the rides. Wish they would keep the magic band program.
It is a ridiculous idea to get rid of the magic bands as they are a simple and efficient way to provide functionality of services within Disney world. I don’t know about other people but my iPhone seldom lasts more than six hours when used constantly, this will mean either carrying a recharger battery or using charging points ( where are Disney going to install the thousands of quick charger points required within each of the parks ). Unless mobile phone manufacturers increase battery size or make phones with slot in batteries which can be swopped in the parks they will never replace the magic bands.
I don’t like to carry my phone around with me when visiting theme parks due to the risk of theft or damage and phones are not meant to be carried in your back pocket.
I would love to see Disney reconsider, and keep Magic Bands!
Please, please, please, do Not eliminate these magical bands!! I know things change but in this case I really think it's a bad idea. I'm sure I'm not alone in this matter. Thank you in advance for Not eliminating the magical bands.
Not a good idea…I do not feel like fumbling for my phone to get into parks, just like getting the cards from my purse, scan the card and then have to put them back in my purse…Magic Bands are ideal..Put them on your wrist and no fumbling for your phone or cards!
I think Magicbands are a must for lots of travelers. Using a cellphone can be cumbersome for guests taking care of young children. Not everyone has an Apple watch
Disney has lost its appeal. WALT is no more. Magic bands made it easy. Carrying my phone around all day sucks. I am opting for six flags in san Antonio most likely. Chapek has turned chapekland into another common theme park. Going to wait the weekend and see how rides are now. Sad no more magic
I love the magic bands. They are convenient, easy to use and a cute addition to your Disney themed wardrobe. I personally do not have and iphone and do not like iphones. I hope they don't go to phones because I put mine in my bookbag when I'm in the parks.
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I love the magic bands it easy to put on and go. I don’t take my phone to the park and neither does my husband. So that’s pointless for us. Yes I want the magic bands to stay please. Thank you