Disney will be ending complimentary MagicBand distribution to Disney Resort hotel guests as it moves to smart devices

Jun 19, 2020 in "MyMagic+"

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Posted: Friday June 19, 2020 10:52am ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

As part of today's announcement on theme park reservations, Disney has stated that it will be retiring complimentary MagicBand distribution to Disney Resort hotel guests.

MagicBands may be replaced by Apple Watch and similar devices

Disney plans to move MagicBand functionality to smart devices, which would seem to suggest that devices such as Apple Watch may be able to be used in place of the MagicBand.

In a posting on the official Disney Parks Blog, Disney said:

As you begin planning your upcoming visits, we’re also exploring engaging ways for guests to use their mobile tech to experience the magic – particularly now as the use of phones and apps continues to evolve. In 2021, we plan to unveil an innovative new offering as part of the My Disney Experience app that will bring features of a MagicBand to your smart devices, building on the app’s existing digital key feature. With this new offering on the horizon, we will be retiring our complimentary MagicBand distribution to Disney Resort hotel guests for new reservations with arrivals beginning Jan. 1, 2021. Disney Resort hotel guests will continue to have the option to purchase new MagicBands at a discount, and we’ll be introducing even more colors and designs featuring favorite Disney characters in the future. Guests who prefer not to purchase a discounted MagicBand will be able to use the My Disney Experience app or a Key to the World card during their visit. We will still offer MagicBands in retail locations and on shopDisney.com, and guests will be able to continue using the wearables throughout Walt Disney World Resort

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nicb88Feb 24, 2021

It is solely a feature lacking on the U.K. site. If you link your reservation to My Disney Experience then use the US site, you can preorder a magicband. This requires use of a VPN now, as they’ve removed the ability to change to the US site from the U.K.

James JFeb 24, 2021

Some phone contracts in the UK now include free data allowance whilst in the US which has been massively beneficial, especially when I'm usually over there twice a year. It's supposedly 'free within reason' but I have no idea what the cut off would be as I've never got close to it, even when we've driven all over SC with Spotify and Google Maps on the whole time.

JoeCamelFeb 24, 2021

I have always been curious if you come over for 21 days why not pick up a cheap phone and some data that works here to use while you are here? I see this from UK visitors on a regular basis and have always wondered why not get a phone?

James JFeb 24, 2021

Same is now happening for me, also in the UK.

NelleBelleFeb 24, 2021

I’m confused because they just released new bands last week. Or is it because you are from the UK? If you’re going to invest in a smart watch aside from using it for MB functions, I’d go for it, otherwise why wouldn’t you just use an old band or get a new one when there (unless like I mentioned you were getting a smart watch anyway). I do think they should give overseas visitors a coupon to get a certain amount off a new MB since it sounds like you can’t get the discounted ones at booking.

LieutLawwFeb 24, 2021

When I went on to MDE to look at MB options the other day they have now been removed completely, last year when I was looking at my booking I could still order a MB but had to pay for it and collect it from the hotel when I checked in (as I am in the UK) now you are taken to an FAQ saying they no longer offer them and you can buy one at your Resort Hotel or in on of the parks. I may have to invest in a smartwatch for my (hopefully) trip later in the year.

Crunchie9Feb 24, 2021

Anyone try the Apple watch with the DME app yet?

dreday3Feb 06, 2021

And it had your room number! I can't remember the room, but it was a parking lot view where we could see Spaceship Earth, so must have been before villas were built! 3rd floor. Okay I was just reminded the key-card we kept was from our trip In 2000. Wow, time flies...

TrainsOfDisneyFeb 06, 2021

Nice! The only one I have is Wilderness Lodge. Such a cool memory of my first trip. In the past they printed your name and length of stay on the front of the cards. That may not be necessary now with mymagic+.

lazyboy97oFeb 05, 2021

Prior cards have had a place to write names so that people know who‘s is who’s and it’s required at least for passholders. Adding names to the cards isn’t difficult. The printers are available in small sizes and could be done right there at the desk.

NelleBelleFeb 05, 2021

I think they're just generic cards to use in place of using your phone or a MB. Why would they go to the trouble of printing your name on it if they're not going to give it to everyone? I'm sure they're hoping for some of those to be "recycled" by being returned to the front desk, just like other room keys at other hotels (not that I'd expect guests to do that...they do make a nice souvenir). Besides, if you lost that, would you want your name on it? Unless you're thinking just first name? I personally wouldn't want any personal info on one of those cards in case I lost it.

dreday3Feb 05, 2021

I still have my Beach Club one somewhere!

aaronmlFeb 05, 2021

Seems like they are no longer printing Guest Name, etc. on the cards?

TrainsOfDisneyFeb 05, 2021

I still prefer the classic character designs but these do look good. I’m for them! Anyone else remember the resort specific key cards? Those were the days!