The Interactive MagicBand+, the latest announcement from the Disney Parks to simplify our visits, was announced for the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World. With some cool features and an interactive ability, I can’t wait to test drive one in person. But, what are the things to look forward to? Here’s the scoop on MagicBand+ and why I’m looking forward to the wrist accessory in 2022.
Interactive MagicBand+ Release Date & Price
At this point both are kind of vague, but here’s what I know. It will be released sometime in 2022 (told you it was vague) and the cost hasn’t been released. But given the average price for a traditional MagicBand (roughly $30), I’m guessing it’s going to be at least 50% or more higher.
What we know for sure is that Walt Disney World Resort guests and Annual Passholders will receive a discount for purchase. That means, depending on the day and time of year, we’ll receive anywhere from 10 to 30 percent off. Having written that, sometimes Disney has nixed the discount on items. We’ll have to wait and see.
The Difference Between MagicBand+ and Original MagicBands
I’ve been on board with MagicBands since they were announced in 2013. A few years after that, MagicBand 2 was released with a new look and ability to change out the band itself.
This month, Walt Disney World (WDW) announced yet another Magicband upgrade” Magicband+ (or MagicBand Plus). The new look reminds me of a smartwatch or Apple Watch and has a sleek look.
As for the difference between the models, in a nutshell MagicBand+ will be able to give the wearer a more interactive experience. It will have images on the fob area (LOVE that!) and offer interactivity. Again, love that.
Need all of the details on the Disney Park accessory? Here are five things you should never do with MagicBands.
Similarities to Original MagicBands
Just the the OG MagicBands, MagicBand+ will be able to open on-property resort room doors, pay for food with a linked credit card, and scan FastPass+ (now Lightning Lane) turnstiles. All of that won’t change.
As for how it says on the wrist, I haven’t seen the back but I can guess it will have the same snap to fit style. And looking at the original images, it doesn’t look like there’s a way to peel off the outer portion to make it smaller for the kiddos or folks with smaller wrists.
Interactive MagicBand+ Color-Changing Lights, Haptics, and Vibrations
Once guests enter a WDW park, the band will signal the wearer at specific locations throughout the park. Using color-changing lights and haptics (tactile responses) to notify the guest of something important.
For example, we’ll be able to interact with the gorgeous Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Disney Fab 50 Character Collection throughout the four theme parks. As for the type of interaction, the details haven’t been released yet.
Additionally, MagicBand+ will use mild vibrations to notify the wearer as well.
Disney World Immersion
We all know that Disney is a big seller of park immersion. Each park, with its own feel and vibe, wants to keep you immersed with its food, characters, and lands. And it’s the attention to detail that Disney does above all other parks.
Claiming to “immerse you in Disney stories and connect with characters you love like never before”, I can’t wait for additional details to be released.
Nighttime Spectacular Interaction
Remember the Glow with the Show Mickey Ears that were sold at WDW a few years ago that synced with the nighttime show at Magic Kingdom? The concept will be similar and will “compliment the magic in the skies”. Personally, I can’t wait for that feature!
