MagicBands have come a long way since they were first released to the public. While at first glance, these might seem like plastic bracelets, they have the potential to do so much more! If you have questions about some of the unique perks of these MagicBands, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few Disney World MagicBand hidden secrets.
MagicBands are Waterproof
This may be something you haven’t given much thought to, but Disney World has a ton of water rides and water parks where MagicBands could get wet. Disney is one step ahead by making sure that these bands are made of waterproof plastic! So the next time you get on Splash Mountain or Kali River Rapids, don’t worry about storing your MagicBand!
MagicBands Track your Location
This might sound a little intrusive, but it’s true. Disney uses your location to track your habits, but it can also be used to find your kids if you get separated while in the parks. This also helps the parks do things like handle crowd control and collect consumer data while guests are in the parks.
Plus one of my favorite things about this feature is the Photopass perks. On select rides, they will take your picture and automatically add it to your account using your MagicBand. If you ride Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at Magic Kingdom you will even get a fun little video of your on-ride experience via Photopass.
You Have to Pay for your MagicBand
In the past, you used to get a basic MagicBand for free if you were staying at a Walt Disney World Resort. Now before your trip, for a small fee, each guest on the reservation will get to choose a color, and they will be sent to your home!
You can use these MagicBands year after year, so don’t throw them away when you get home from your trip! Annual Passholders will also receive a complimentary MagicBand each year when they renew.
There is a Battery in Your MagicBand
Wondering how they automagically put those photos in your account from rides you have been on? It’s all from a long-range RFID reader. In order to use this, your MagicBand needs some power and so there is a small battery inside it. Unforntuely, the batteries inside your MagicBand can’t be replaced so over time your battery inside will die and those on ride photos will stop appearing in your account.
New MagicBand+ Coming in 2022
Disney World has been teasing there is an all-new MagicBand coming on the scene for the 50th anniversary in 2022. We don’t have an official date yet but it is called MagicBand+! But on May 1st Disney Springs accidentally put a bundle of them out and had to pull them back off shelves. So we expect any week now they will be released for real.
This new MagicBand will come alive at various times with color-changing lights, haptic vibrations, and gesture recognition, enhancing the environment’s immersive storytelling. The wearable will allow guests to engage with favorite Disney moments in new ways and discover new interactive experiences.
For more read – Disney Launching New MagicBand+
MagicBands Can Help Protect your Information
While you may be a little on edge about using your MagicBand to pay for things in the park, Disney has made a few extra precautions to help avoid fraud. When you get your MagicBand, you will have to enter a four-digit code. When you consider that this band can get you entry into the parks, pay for anything on Disney properties, and even get into your room, this added security feature can make a huge difference!
Endless Possibilities for MagicBand Customization
From adding personalized stickers, and engraving your MagicBand, to even getting a custom band with your favorite Disney character, Disney has thought of everything! You can also read our guide on Great Ways to Decorate your Disney MagicBand.
There are endless possibilities for customizing your MagicBand to encourage you to get one and use them while you’re in the parks. You can even take out the center of your MagicBand and put it in a watch attachment pictured above (shop here). There are even limited edition bands that you’ll find during special events throughout the year. So, if you care about getting them, don’t miss your chance before they’re gone!
I hope this post has given you a few new ideas for how to use your MagicBands at Disney World, and even a few new tricks for how to make the most of them! Let us know your MagicBand secrets in the comment section below. For more read What you Should Never Do with your MagicBand, Turn Your MagicBand into a Watch or Necklace and also, MagicBands What You Need to Know.
I have been visiting the parks annually since my parents first brought me at just a year old. Recently I was able to fulfill my life long dream of being a Florida local and moved from the wintery Northeast to the sunshine and fun of central Florida. Now I am hoping to share my Disney knowledge with you so you can have the best vacation possible!