Disneyland Resort announced it will launch the innovative MagicBand+ wearable on Oct. 26, 2022, offering many hands-free conveniences and immersive experiences that unlock a new dimension of Disney storytelling. This milestone marks the first time guests can utilize the smart and stylish device at the Happiest Place on Earth.
MagicBand+ is an easy-to-use, next-generation wearable that enables guests to see and feel select park experiences through customizable features such as color-changing LED lights, haptic vibrations and gesture recognition. It is rechargeable (with the included USB charging cable) and waterproof. MagicBand+ will be available in more than 18 collectible colors and designs at launch, including five prints exclusive to Disneyland Resort – and the assortment will expand with even more must-have options.
“We are always looking for innovative ways to make magic,” said Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock. “MagicBand+ is another way we are leveraging technology to delight our guests and create experiences that are unlike any other. This is just the beginning, we have plans to continue to grow MagicBand+ offerings at Disneyland Resort in the future with the addition of exciting new features.”
Beginning Oct. 26, guests may choose to purchase MagicBand+ from select merchandise locations across the Disneyland Resort. Beginning Oct. 19, eligible Magic Key holders, cast members and Disney Vacation Club members will have the opportunity to be among the first to purchase MagicBand+ at Disneyland Resort from select locations (applicable discounts will be valid) and get a first look at its magical features in action. While supplies last, Magic Key holders may also purchase a band with a special Magic Key design and unique light-up sequence.
Hands-free convenience and enhanced park experiences
MagicBand+ boasts a host of convenient abilities, with more slated to come in the future. For a hands-free way to enter the Disneyland Resort theme parks (valid park admission and reservation required), guests can connect MagicBand+ to their theme park tickets or Magic Key passes in the Disneyland app.* The wearable can also be used to seamlessly check into Lightning Lane entrances (separate valid Lightning Lane entry required) and easily link Disney PhotoPass photographer-captured photos to guests’ Disney accounts.
Day and night, MagicBand+ adds new, immersive elements to select park experiences and entertainment. For instance, guests may discover their bands creating surprising and magical touches to certain entertainment at Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure Park. Nighttime spectaculars become even more dazzling when MagicBand+ illuminates and pulses in sync with special moments in “World of Color” in Disney California Adventure Park, “Fantasmic!” in Disneyland Park and other select nighttime shows throughout the year. MagicBand+ will also interact with the all-new nighttime spectaculars “World of Color – One” at Disney California Adventure and “Wondrous Journeys” at Disneyland when they debut in late January 2023 as part of the Disney 100 Years of Wonder anniversary celebration.
At Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland, guests can use MagicBand+ to seek virtual bounties hidden across Black Spire Outpost in the Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters experience. Vibrations and lights from guests’ bands help guide them to their bounty, and the augmented reality thermal viewer in the Play Disney Parks app** reveals who is hiding in the shadows. Local guild master Raga Bua rewards guests with galactic credits once their missions are successfully completed.
Easy to use, customizable settings and rechargeable battery
To enjoy all the available features of MagicBand+, guests will need a Disney account and the Disneyland app. MagicBand+ can be easily paired with a smartphone and updated through the app. Plus, it can be customized with unique light colors and adjustable vibration and motion recognition settings. For setup information, guests can visit Disneyland.com or ask a question using the Chat with Us feature on the Disneyland app.
A fully charged battery on a MagicBand+ can last between one to three days, depending on the guest’s individual use. It is recommended that guests charge their bands overnight using the included USB charging cable, and once charged, power off their bands until they are ready to use them. Portable charging systems are available for purchase at kiosks throughout the Disneyland Resort for added convenience.
Also available for purchase online from shopDisney, MagicBand+ can be used at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. Experiences and features vary between the two destinations.
Continuing a legacy of innovation
MagicBand+ joins an advanced portfolio of industry-leading technology that creates a seamless, world-class guest experience at the Disneyland Resort. The Disneyland app features many digital tools to help guests save time and make the most of their visits, and it continues to evolve with new capabilities and content. Accessible in the app with the purchase of Disney Genie+ service, the all-new Disney PhotoPass Lenses** enable guests to conjure up ice like Elsa, snap an underwater selfie with Dory and be immersed in favorite Disney stories using augmented reality. Convenient and time-saving Disneyland app features include mobile order, merchandise mobile checkout, hotel direct-to-room service and more.
Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter @iamcg83