BREAKING NEWS: Disney World Will NOT Offer Complimentary MagicBands in 2021
This has been a day of HUGE updates for Walt Disney World! Disney announced that they will be unveiling a new reservation system this week, that Halloween parties and H2O Glow Night events have been cancelled for this year and that Food & Wine Festival will open when Epcot reopens on July 11th. We also announced that 2021 Walt Disney World vacation packages will be available to book starting next week.
In and amongst all of this is one additional change we wanted to share with you. In their official statement this morning, Disney announced that they will be discontinuing complimentary MagicBands for 2021.
Here’s what Disney World is saying regarding MagicBands:
“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.”
So it would appear from the above statement that Disney is phasing out MagicBands in favor of a new system that will bring enhanced functionality right to your mobile phones. This is as a system similar to Disneyland where everything from tickets to MaxPass are managed using the Disneyland app.
Can I Still Use a MagicBand If I Want To?
Yes. Disney Resort hotel guests will continue to have the option of purchasing new MagicBands at a discount. Disney World also promises that they will be introducing more colors and designs. However, those opting not to make the additional purchase can use the My Disney Experience app or a “Key to the World” card during your visit.
Disney said in their statement today that they will still offer MagicBands in retail locations and on shopDisney.com. Those who prefer to use MagicBands can continue to do so throughout the parks.
Readers are encouraged to keep following along with MickeyBlog for further news and updates!
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