MagicBand+ to add new magic to Walt Disney World starting July 27

A new immersive guest experience is coming to Walt Disney World on July 27th when the MagicBand+ launches.

The technology in the MagicBand+ can do everything a regular MagicBand can do and it layers on new interactive features. The new tech includes color-changing lights, haptic vibrations and gesture recognition – plus the device will pair with your smartphone using the My Disney Experience app.

What to expect from MagicBand+

Once MagicBand+ is available to purchase, you will find over 25 designs to choose from. The MagicBand+ will also unlock several new experiences available at launch.

We were recently invited to experience a special preview of the MagicBand+, including a look at the styles that will be available:

Disney Fab 50 Quest

The Disney Fab 50 Character Collection added to all four theme parks as part of the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration, is part of a new interactive “Disney Fab 50 Quest.”

When the guest makes the gesture of waving hello, or in Disney-speak, sprinkling virtual pixie dust, the gesture recognizing technology at each Disney Fab 50 Character sculpture will trigger one of a set of different reactions!

To unlock even more, you can connect with the Play Disney Parks app to collect the sculptures you’ve interacted with. Then you can enter the worlds of favorite characters through an augmented reality feature.

Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters

When you’re visiting Batuu in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, you can join on a bounty hunting experience inspired by The Mandalorian. Use the MagicBand+ to seek numerous virtual bounties hidden across Black Spire Outpost via the Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters experience.

As you go on your adventure, vibrations and lights on MagicBand+ will guide you down the right path. Then, when you find your Bounty, use the Play Disney Parks app’s augmented reality thermal viewer to reveal who’s hiding in the shadows.

Nighttime Spectaculars

The MagicBand+ will be activated by Disney’s magical nighttime spectaculars. Starting with “Disney Enchantment” at Magic Kingdom Park and “Harmonious” at EPCOT! the MagicBand+ will complement the magic in the skies, lighting up and vibrating in sync with fireworks, visual effects, and music.

Also, be sure to check out all four theme park icons Beacons of Magic shows for additional activations.

Walt Disney World asked Disney Legend Jodi Benson to demonstrate how to use the MagicBand+

How to use your MagicBand+

Unlike regular MagicBand, the new device requires a charge. Before you enjoy these experiences, make sure the MagicBand+ is charged, up to date and paired to a device. You will also need to make sure your Play Disney Parks app is linked to the Disney account linked to your MagicBand+.

How to Purchase a MagicBand+

All guests can buy MagicBand+ at select stores across Walt Disney World and online at shopDisney, starting at $34.99. Although we just checked and the MagicBand+ was not available online yet.

If you are staying at a Disney Resort hotel, you may purchase MagicBand+ online at special prices before your arrival. Annual Passholder discounts will also be available on MagicBand+.

At Walt Disney World, the MagicBand+ is available for purchase at the following locations:

• Magic Kingdom Park: Emporium
• EPCOT: Pin Traders – Camera Center
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Celebrity 5 & 10 and Tatooine Traders
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park: Discovery Trading Company
• Disney Springs: Disney’s Pin Traders
• Select merchandise locations at Disney Resort hotels

We expect to learn more about the Magicband+ options, including when it will come to Disneyland, later this year. So stay tuned!

Previously: Our reactions after previewing the MagicBand+.

Will you be purchasing the MagicBand+? Let us know in the comments or on Facebook and Twitter.