Note: This is Part 3 of a 3-part series on Disney’s MyMagic+. Part 1 is here, Part 2 is here.
Photo Credit – Nicholas Maglio
Let’s talk Magic Bands! Seriously, forget the whole RFID controversy (invasion of privacy, Disney is “Big Brother” tracking you, blah, blah, blah). These babies are COOL! I am in awe of the technology. Dick- Tracy-esque wrist-wear that magically acts as your resort room door key, credit card, park ticket, photo-gatherer, and Fast Pass all at the same time! C’mon! That’s pretty darned awesome. The POWER of that one little colored wrist-band…Bwwwahhahahhaha (maniacal laugh).
So, in Part 1 we talked about the My Disney Experience App and its components. I mentioned the app will keep up with resort reservations, Fast Pass+, dining reservations and linked members of your traveling party – that information will be stored, along with an optional credit card number (for charging privileges at Disney World stores and restaurants), on your Magic Band. Touch-to-pay sounds like so much fun! I will be first to raise my hand and admit it may indeed cause me to spend more than intended. (Raymond – keep an eye on my wrist and don’t let me put us in the poorhouse!)
Photo Credit – Meg Mayo Lucas
Made of durable plastic, these waterproof bands could theoretically be put on and kept on for the duration of your vacation. Magic Bands easily adjust for little-one’s arms (the outside of the band peels off, revealing a smaller version) and are made to last! They could even be used for multiple trips over a two-year time period (that’s how long the battery is supposed to last)….but you don’t have to worry about keeping up with them once you get home – Disney will send you new Magic Bands for every trip. Bands come in different colors and, for a price, can be accessorized with official Disney trinkets (buy them at Disney World – pay with your Magic Band!).
On the My Disney Experience site, personalize your Magic Bands – pick a color and name you’d like imprinted on the band. Available colors are gray, red, yellow, green, blue, pink and orange.
Photo Credit – Stephanie Demmler
My friends Nick and Barbie recently took a trip to Disney World and a good write-up of their experience can be found here. A good article on Magic Bands and Memory Maker photos can be found here. FYI – Memory Maker is a package of digital pictures taken by Disney park photographers at your request and also automatically on many rides. These photos will be “stored” for you via Magic Band – available for purchase while at Disney World or online before or after your vacation. Details here – save $50 by purchasing in advance of your trip.
Why all the hullabaloo? Various problems with almost every component of this new Disney vacation “system” have been reported on blogs, twitter, discussion boards, etc. DO NOT be afraid. I believe that the people having great experiences are just not reporting it – after all, great experiences are what Disney is known for and many people sort of take it for granted. Disney is going to great lengths to make this work.
Photo Credit – Nicholas Maglio
NOTE: If you have a large family or group of friends from different households traveling together, the most important thing is to get everyone linked up in the system correctly before you leave for vacation – call Disney for help if you can’t get it just right online.
ANOTHER NOTE: Disney World has installed charging stations (so you can keep that smartphone working) all over the place. A good article on Magic Kingdom charging availability can be found here.
In spite of complaints (let’s be honest – the negative stuff gets the most attention from the change-resistant), I’m super excited about trying this out for myself on the trips we have booked in 2014. Remember – change is difficult and most people don’t care for it – some will blame the “change” for every negative thing that happens. Be patient…..and excited! You are going to Disney World!!
I would love to hear your comments, questions and feedback on MyMagic+. I’ll do my best to direct you to the correct answers / information.