NextGen, Magic Band, and FP+

[DizneyFreak2002]

Word is starting to filter into the social media arena regarding NextGen... Lots of rumors and what ifs... However, we now have word straight from the mouth of the mouse... This is quoted from {a January 3, 2013 internal bulletin to Cast Members} ...



Soon, Walt Disney World Resort will introduce tools that allow guests to use technology to customize and personalize their vacation, along with more guest enhancements that will continue to be tested and implemented in the coming years. Many of these efforts are part of MyMagic+, which has the ability to connect nearly all aspects of the guest experience.


My Disney Experience, a new website and mobile application, will provide a one-stop shop for all things Walt Disney World during every phase of a guest’s vacation. Guests may use My Disney Experience to get information on all Walt Disney World offerings, reserve dining and other experiences and make FastPass+ selections in advance.
Disney FastPass+ service will allow guests to lock in some of their must-do attractions and show experiences in advance, freeing them to explore and discover the magic in Walt Disney World theme parks and resort hotels. For the first time, guests will be able to reserve firework and parade viewing areas, shows, Disney Character Greetings and more.
The new MagicBand, worn on the wrist, will become the key to unlocking the magic, serving as room key, park admission, access to FastPass+ selections, PhotoPass card and payment account (optional) all rolled into one.
MyMagic+, as well as other guest experience enhancements, will continue to be tested and implemented in the coming years. We are continually looking at ways to take the entire Disney Parks experience to the next level at all of our destinations based on the unique ways our guests enjoy diverse sites. Guests, Cast, Crew, and Imagineer feedback will continue to be a critical part of the process in shaping these offerings.

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Message Updated by John on 01-07-2013 at 09:10 AM:

From the Disney Blog this morning:

Taking the Disney Guest Experience to the Next Level

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 01:59 AM PST

At Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, we continually push the boundaries of creativity and innovation to deliver the best possible experience for our guests. We’re always looking for ways to take what we do and do it even better. Over the past few years, we’ve devoted considerable time and resources to create a more immersive, more seamless and more personal experience for each and every guest who spends time with us. I know there’s been significant speculation about these efforts among our fans, so we’re pleased to give you a glimpse into the work we are doing to take the entire Disney guest experience to the next level.

Some of these initiatives are more apparent and can already be seen by our guests – like our interactive queues at Walt Disney World Resort and the Enchanted Art on our cruise ships – while others are more behind-the-scenes and are focused on “how” visitors plan, access and enjoy their experiences with us. Over the next several months, we’ll be rolling out a collection of tools at the Walt Disney World Resort called MyMagic+ that will give guests more opportunities to customize and personalize their entire visit.

Like most people who visit Walt Disney World Resort, my family and I have our “must-do” attractions, and as the father of three boys, those attractions often end with the word “mountain.” Now, rather than dashing as a group, or even splitting up to gather FastPasses, imagine booking guaranteed ride times for your favorite shows and attractions even before setting foot in the park. With MyMagic+, guests will be able to do that and more, enabling them to spend more time together and creating an experience that’s better for everyone.

A major component of MyMagic+ is the new My Disney Experience website and mobile app, which gives guests planning their trip the latest information on all Walt Disney World Resort has to offer. We know that some people like to plan every aspect of their Disney vacation in advance while others like to plan very little, letting their day unfold spontaneously. No matter where guests fall in that spectrum, My Disney Experience gives them the flexibility to plan as much or as little as they’d like to create the exact Disney experience they want. They can book dining and other experiences and reserve times for their favorite attractions, shows and more through an enhanced FastPass system, FastPass+. Once they arrive, they can use their smart phones to spontaneously change their plans in the moment, exploring our parks at their own pace and getting the most out of their visit.

Linking the entire MyMagic+ experience together is an innovative piece of technology we developed called the MagicBand. Worn on the wrist, it will serve as a guest’s room key, theme park ticket, access to FastPass+ selections, PhotoPass card and optional payment account all rolled into one. We’ve began testing certain aspects of MyMagic+ in Florida last month and the early reactions we’ve gotten have been fantastic.

This collection of tools is another step forward in the ongoing evolution of our guest experience, giving us even more ways to help friends and family create the unforgettable Disney memories that they want most. We’ll be testing, adjusting and adding features to MyMagic+ and My Disney Experience over time and will continue to make improvements based on our guests’ feedback. We look forward to sharing more with you in the months ahead

Update for 1/11/13:

More details posted below (http://www.intercot.com/discussion/showpost.php?p=2326994&postcount=99)

Update for 1/15/13:

Additional details regarding privacy issues posted below (http://www.intercot.com/discussion/showpost.php?p=2327946&postcount=141)

[January-2007]

Cool. I like the wrist key to the world idea.

[Pirate Granny]

I don't like the wrist option...wearing something for ten days???? What about annual passes and small children.

[Quadstriker]

I don't like the wrist option...wearing something for ten days????

You're still allowed to wear pants with pockets.

[TinkerbellT421]

I like the wrist band idea actually. Wonder if this will save the all annoying, pull your card out during evening EMH?

[chrim]

I'm OK with the switch to RFID technology, but I am not big on the wristband idea. I hope this is like a watch band which is adjustable, can be taken of (to sleep, shower, etc.) and then put back on. But I could see why WDW would not want the bands to be easily removed and put back on.

I read on the WDW web site that park admissions tickets, as of now, can only be used with classic Fast Pass or Fast Pass+, but not both. That makes it seem like the classic Fast Pass program may be on the chopping block or will only be available to Annual Pass holders, day visitors, etc.

Also, I wonder how this will work with park admission tickets with the no expiration option. I wonder if the only admission media that will be compatible with the wrist bands are Magic Your Way tickets that expire 14 days after first use. DL resort doesn't sell park tickets with the no-expiration option and I wonder if WDW is trying to copy that (although I hope they don't).

[VWL Mom]

It was just reported on GDNY Fox 5 that according to Reuters, jobs cuts are necessary at WDW to pay for these new technology upgrades which will begin in the spring. I'm a bit surprised they didn't say anything about ticket increases.

[PopPhan]

Dang! Now I am going to end up with 'watch band' tan lines on my wrist every time I visit!!! :D

I don't mind the RFID idea at all, just wish they had a better way of implementing it.

[azcavalier]

Dang! Now I am going to end up with 'watch band' tan lines on my wrist every time I visit!!! :D

I don't mind the RFID idea at all, just wish they had a better way of implementing it.

Like surgical implants?

[PopPhan]

Like surgical implants?

LOL That would work for me!! Just give me a chip like you use for tracking your pets!!!

[ChipNDale79]

I'm still concerned about Fastpass+, has anyone seen how early you can reserve fastpasses?

[marlyn]

How soon is this to be implemented?

[Disneyfun]

I'm still concerned about Fastpass+, has anyone seen how early you can reserve fastpasses?

Actually, I never thought about it that way....hmmm, this could be a problem with fastpass+ being sold out 180 days in advance for the most popular rides like Soarin, the mountains at the MK, ToT, RRC, and Everest.

Also, I think that they will also have the same problem with people making many Fastpass+ reservations, but never actually going like what used to happen with people making multiple ADR's at multiple parks so they could have flexibility.

Now, I am not sure that the advance Fastpass+ is something that I will like in general. I hope that they find a way to limit it. Perhaps only allowing an individual that is staying at a resort to reserve 1 Fastpass+ per person per day. We'll see.

[Figment!]

How soon is this to be implemented?

Parts of it are already in place, although not using the "Magic Band".

See Roll-Out of "NextGen" RFID Program (http://www.intercot.com/discussion/showthread.php?t=196529) for info on for what is installed and active so far.

[Dulcee]

I love the wristband idea! No more fumbling with wallets, purses bags etc to find your park ticket. Would likely cut down on lines for resort guests to get into the parks.

When we were there in December they were already using the RFID scanners in place of some of the traditional card scanners and turnstiles. Once people realized you only had to tap your card and not hold it there lines moved pretty quickly. Annoyingly you did still need to scan your finger.

We also tested fastpass +, personally we loved it. If they do it in a similar fashion as to how it was done for our trial period, 3 rides in one park on one day booked ~1 week prior to arrival, I'd be all about it. Assuming also that its included as a resort perk.

[BriarRose0708]

I don't wear watches or bracelets for a reason. I lose them! I'd need to see the wristbands before making a judgement but I foresee a lot of visits to guest relations in my future. And what's to stop someone from taking another's wristband and using it as their own? Are they keeping the biometric scans at turnstiles?

[Dulcee]

Are they keeping the biometric scans at turnstiles?

As of right now the nexgen entrances that are open and functional still have the finger tip scan.

[ChipNDale79]

Actually, I never thought about it that way....hmmm, this could be a problem with fastpass+ being sold out 180 days in advance for the most popular rides like Soarin, the mountains at the MK, ToT, RRC, and Everest.

Also, I think that they will also have the same problem with people making many Fastpass+ reservations, but never actually going like what used to happen with people making multiple ADR's at multiple parks so they could have flexibility.

Now, I am not sure that the advance Fastpass+ is something that I will like in general. I hope that they find a way to limit it. Perhaps only allowing an individual that is staying at a resort to reserve 1 Fastpass+ per person per day. We'll see.

Those are the same problems I have, if its 180 days out, then that's a massive problem, i hate it.

I actually don't think it should be more than 24-48 hours in advance, but we know that won't be the case.

[Polynesian Dweller]

Those are the same problems I have, if its 180 days out, then that's a massive problem, i hate it.

I actually don't think it should be more than 24-48 hours in advance, but we know that won't be the case.

That part hasn't been announced. Wait for it before getting too upset. It's all still in rollout. They do say, however, that once you can choose at home and once you arrive at WDW you can change your choices on the fly. The say they are trying to make things more flexible not less. However, there are still lots of specifics to hear about.

The band can be removed when you want to and you don't have to wear it. It's also totally opt in. If you don't want to do it you don't have to but then you won't have access to FP+

[ChipNDale79]

That part hasn't been announced. Wait for it before getting too upset. It's all still in rollout. They do say, however, that once you can choose at home and once you arrive at WDW you can change your choices on the fly. The say they are trying to make things more flexible not less. However, there are still lots of specifics to hear about.

The band can be removed when you want to and you don't have to wear it. It's also totally opt in. If you don't want to do it you don't have to but then you won't have access to FP+

I'm just afraid its going to turn out to be a lot like ADRs, the hot one's are going to be near impossible to get the closer to the date of the park visit.

[DizneyFreak2002]

I read their blog post and I want to throw up... What they should have done is take the 2 billion this will now cost (the figure just keeps increasing) and, oh, I don't know, make the guest experience better by FIXING THE ATTRACTIONS YOU HAVE NOW AND BUILDING NEW ONES!!!! Stop trying to find more ways to take money out of the pockets of people... Give them a REASON to buy your merchandise, give them a reason to want to visit and keep coming back... Staying stale but going NextGen isn't the answer... A 2 billion dollar data mining, tracking system disguised to enhance the guest experience...

Say bye bye to fast pass as we know it.. Say goodbye to short stand-by lines.. Say hello to frustration and long waits... Why does Disney make it so easy to not want to go back to WDW?

[Stu29573]

I want to know how anyone who has had any amount of experience with WDW's computer system thinks this is going to work? I have flashbacks of Westworld... Welcome to Disney World, Where Nothing Can Go Wrong...Go Wrong...Go Wrong...

[ChipNDale79]

I read their blog post and I want to throw up... What they should have done is take the 2 billion this will now cost (the figure just keeps increasing) and, oh, I don't know, make the guest experience better by FIXING THE ATTRACTIONS YOU HAVE NOW AND BUILDING NEW ONES!!!! Stop trying to find more ways to take money out of the pockets of people... Give them a REASON to buy your merchandise, give them a reason to want to visit and keep coming back... Staying stale but going NextGen isn't the answer... A 2 billion dollar data mining, tracking system disguised to enhance the guest experience...

Say bye bye to fast pass as we know it.. Say goodbye to short stand-by lines.. Say hello to frustration and long waits... Why does Disney make it so easy to not want to go back to WDW?

At the end of the day WDW no longer cares anymore about "us", and by that I mean the return customer. What WDW only cares about now are the once in a life time crowd, or the once every 5-10 year crowd. These are the people that will pay no matter what in order to go on these milestone trips.

Sad it's headed in that direction, but it is.

[DizneyFreak2002]

I want to know how anyone who has had any amount of experience with WDW's computer system thinks this is going to work? I have flashbacks of Westworld... Welcome to Disney World, Where Nothing Can Go Wrong...Go Wrong...Go Wrong...

They have already had tons of issues with the computer systems... As people involved in the project say, this is going to be one heck of a mess (it has failed testing already)... Waste of 2 billion dollars... Can't wait until we have to pay for it... CMs are already going to be... WDW will be laying off a load of employees and shaving 10% off operating expenses just to make some of this money up...

[DizneyFreak2002]

At the end of the day WDW no longer cares anymore about "us", and by that I mean the return customer. What WDW only cares about now are the once in a life time crowd, or the once every 5-10 year crowd. These are the people that will pay no matter what in order to go on these milestone trips.

Sad it's headed in that direction, but it is.

Time to give them what they want... You went once (more than likely more than once)... Don't go back... The only way they will learn is by constant decreasing attendance... And in October, when I visit, I plan on NOT spending any time in WDW despite staying in my DVC resort... So I won't be adding to the turn style clicks for their crumbling theme parks... I'll go and experience wonderful new and exciting offerings down the road in Universal...

A friend of mine texted me about her current trip... She is there now... This girl is filled with pixie dust... Well, not anymore... The way she put WDW down shocked me... But then again, not really...

[EeyoresBestFriend]

I find the whole thing a bit depressing.

They say that they are not forcing anyone to book everything in advance, but I don't see how you can not. And what about those who don't live with a phone in their hand, or goodness forbid, don't have a smart phone?

And I don't see how this is user friendly for the newbies? This seems to be specifically built for return guests since who else would know what they want to do, need to see, or have ANY concept of the timing of their days?

Was in the Fastpass+ trials and found it really unaccommodating if you have more than 2 people or more than 1 reservation, because you can't coordinate your fastpasses for the same time/ride.

Color me NOT a happy camper with the looks of this so far . . . . . I guess I'll start looking for a new "second" home if this keeps up.

Guess we'll see . . . . .

[ChipNDale79]

Time to give them what they want... You went once (more than likely more than once)... Don't go back... The only way they will learn is by constant decreasing attendance... And in October, when I visit, I plan on NOT spending any time in WDW despite staying in my DVC resort... So I won't be adding to the turn style clicks for their crumbling theme parks... I'll go and experience wonderful new and exciting offerings down the road in Universal...

A friend of mine texted me about her current trip... She is there now... This girl is filled with pixie dust... Well, not anymore... The way she put WDW down shocked me... But then again, not really...

If you'll notice in my signature I've been a lot, but you'll see a gap of about 10 years from 1998 to 2008. There's a reason for that, there was a time period where i thought Disney was too expensive to go to, Id want to go, but by the time i did the math, it wasnt worth it. The wife and I went on our honeymoon in 2008 and have been a bunch since then, we haven't been since March of 2011 because well, we've had 2 kids since then, so we just havent made it back. But i can tell you this, if Disney keeps up with the nonsense that is going on, then there might be another large gap in my attendance.

[T-Belle]

So am I to understand that this will only be available if your staying on property at one of Disney's resorts? What about SOG ( where I usually stay) or The Swan & Dolphin?

[ChipNDale79]

So am I to understand that this will only be available if your staying on property at one of Disney's resorts? What about SOG ( where I usually stay) or The Swan & Dolphin?

Who knows? Disney has done a horrible job with the PR on this thing. Negative rumors have been going around for years and Disney has done nothing to dispel those negative rumors.

[AgentC]

So am I to understand that this will only be available if your staying on property at one of Disney's resorts? What about SOG ( where I usually stay) or The Swan & Dolphin?

A lot more information has been coming out this afternoon. What I have seen so far says

-Magic bands will be free for guests staying at the resort, annual pass holders, and those who buy the photopass package.
-Non resort guests will get a RFID card that will let them take place in Fastpass +
-Non resort guest can chose to buy Magic Bands.

The one part I am not sure on is non resort guests using My Disney experience. One site says they can with the RFID cards. One says they may use it and buy Magic Bands so I am not sure if you have to buy the Magic Band if you are a non resort guest and want to use My Disney Experience to reserve a fast pass + prior to being in the park.

[Hammer]

One of the things (I know there are many) that needs to be defined is the definition of "resort guest". Will Swan and Dolphin be considered a resort guest? Shades of Green?

Definitely does not sound like this will be day guest or local friendly!

[DizneyFreak2002]

If you'll notice in my signature I've been a lot, but you'll see a gap of about 10 years from 1998 to 2008. There's a reason for that, there was a time period where i thought Disney was too expensive to go to, Id want to go, but by the time i did the math, it wasnt worth it. The wife and I went on our honeymoon in 2008 and have been a bunch since then, we haven't been since March of 2011 because well, we've had 2 kids since then, so we just havent made it back. But i can tell you this, if Disney keeps up with the nonsense that is going on, then there might be another large gap in my attendance.

Sadly, you were replaced with someone else so you not going didn't hurt... There needs to be a drastic drop in attendance... NextGen just may do that... Even the pixie dusters who think Disney can do no wrong are not on board with NextGen and are crucifying it... Just read other websites, you'll see just how much people do not like this... And wait til the regular guests finds out that, in order to participate, they have to allow Disney to data mine their kids... If not, you can forget about FP+ anything else Disney is instituting that is supposed to help streamline your vacations...

Very interesting article out there back from September 2012 about COPPA and Disney's privacy policy regarding children... Privacy Groups no doubt will be watching this RFID and NextGen very closely...

[MargaretMessler]

Am I the only one out here who misses the days of just going to the parks and doing everything on the fly? Or am I just wierd?

Maybe it's because I am a several times repeat guest. I will occassionally do a FP, I rarely make an ADR, and I had no problem with the way things were.

:scratch:

[Melanie]

This is ridiculous! PLEASE don't let Disneyland go to this.

[1DisneyNut]

This is just getting ridiculous! It is getting to where it is almost like going to work when you go to WDW instead of being a vacation. If you want to eat at one of the table service restaurants, you have to make a reservation 6 months ahead of time. Then when you are actually at the parks, you have to be concerned with your ADR's all day and working out the logistics of doing fastpasses in time and still making it to your ADR. You have all the different ticket options to try to figure out what to buy considering the time you have and what all you want to do. Now they are adding this **** where I have to reserve time slot fastpasses ahead of time and try to keep up with all of that, make it to those on time and dinner on time......what a mess. I despise the ADR's for dining and I'm not much of a fastpass fan.

I am getting irritated just reading about all of this. They say they are giving guests options but in actuality they are overly complicating our vacations. If you want to experience everything, you are forced into making the advanced reservations since others will fill them up and leave you out in the cold. I hate it, hate it, hate it.

I'm with MargaretMessler, I would just assume they scrap every bit of it, fastpasses, ADR's, all the crazy ticket options, everything, and just go back to I show up at the park and the biggest decision I have is whether to go left or right.

I have reduced my trips to WDW from two or three per year to one every other year or so. I have also started staying off site and also skipping Animal Kingdom. We haven't bought any merchandise in the parks in at least 5 years.

[DizneyFreak2002]

This is ridiculous! PLEASE don't let Disneyland go to this.

As of now this is only a WDW thing... But, if for some strange reason this is successful (I highly doubt it will be), then Disneyland may wind up suffering the wrath of NextGen... Though I don't think their huge AP fan base will stand for it...

There are a few things I think we are missing here, and I'll mention one of them right now... How many times do you have to duck out of the way of a rogue ECV or stroller? In my experiences, plenty... And that is with people looking straight ahead... Now, imagine if you will these people looking down at their phone staring at the app and not in front of them... Yea, I wouldn't want to be the person that is struck...

***and no, I am not bashing the use of strollers or ECVs... while there is an over abundance in use, I will never bash a person using an ECV..

[Dulcee]

Data mining isn't unique to Disney. In fact I'd say it has become a huge part of life for the average person living in a first world country. Yelling that Disney is tracking where you and your kid go while in the park is just ridiculous as its happening in your daily life to a huge extent anyway. Welcome to the digitized 21st century.

Most of the changes being considered by Disney are being considered globally for other theme parks. Guests want a streamlined package. Disney is the ultimate all inclusive resort and personally I think these changes add to that.

I honestly don't see the upheaval over rfid cards versus traditional technology, either way kids Disney was getting their data over what park or restaurant you visited. Fastpass in it's traditional form fed them information over your ride choices. Having used the new fast pass it was quick easy and flexible and something I look forward to utilizing in the future.

[Stu29573]

...Go Wrong.....Go Wrong......Go Wrong.....

[BrerGnat]

I honestly think this is a good idea. I must be the only one.

First of all, I will say this: Disneyland will probably not go down this route. They already have NOT jumped on the "interactive queue" bandwagon (thank goodness), and the truth is, they don't have enough on site capacity (resort wise) to dangle this carrot over people. They simply HAVE to rely on offsite hotels for the bulk of their guests to stay at (the rest are locals or day trippers). Disneyland also still doesn't do the DDP (again, thank goodness) or Magical Express, etc. They operate very differently because it is a different experience over there.

That said, I think this is just what WDW needs, honestly. After my last visit, I am ALL FOR any system that helps WDW know where people are and what they are doing, so they can more effectively manage staffing, transportation, etc. The lines at WDW are atrocious, not just for rides, but for food, carts, buses, etc. There are too many people in the parks and no organization. If this wristband system speeds up processes, and eliminates people clogging up areas, great!

I have a local acquaintance whose family just took their first WDW trip. As soon as she found out I knew about WDW, she began asking questions. HOWEVER, I will say she was VERY educated already on a lot of stuff. She had been online, reading books, etc. So, I have no doubt that "newbies" would find the information that they need to make this successful. People don't generally go into new experiences blind anymore. There is no reason to, if you are a somewhat intelligent, plugged in (i.e. you have a computer) human being in this day and age. For what it's worth, they had a FABULOUS time and she came back gushing about how easy and convenient it all was (they did ME, DDP, stayed onsite, etc.) She honestly didn't have anything bad to say. They are already planning a Disney Cruise next. Disney snagged another one.

I think it's legitimate to have concerns when anything you "love" begins to change. However, the more I read about this, the more I like it. I'm all about strapping on some device that makes things easier for me on vacation, and truthfully, it sounds like fun to get on my phone and be able to change around my FP schedule if I need to.

I'm going to take a "wait and see" approach here. We are not heading back to WDW until late in 2014, so we'll just have to see what happens with this between now and then.

[ChipNDale79]

As of now this is only a WDW thing... But, if for some strange reason this is successful (I highly doubt it will be), then Disneyland may wind up suffering the wrath of NextGen... Though I don't think their huge AP fan base will stand for it...

There are a few things I think we are missing here, and I'll mention one of them right now... How many times do you have to duck out of the way of a rogue ECV or stroller? In my experiences, plenty... And that is with people looking straight ahead... Now, imagine if you will these people looking down at their phone staring at the app and not in front of them... Yea, I wouldn't want to be the person that is struck...

***and no, I am not bashing the use of strollers or ECVs... while there is an over abundance in use, I will never bash a person using an ECV..

Don't get me wrong, there are some nice things with Next Gen, but the entire planning your vacation out way ahead of time really burns me the wrong way.

I've read a lot of other websites on the subject on Next Gen, and I agree with you, I've seen VERY little positive feedback about it. I too believe the majority of Next Gen is going to be a big failure.

[AgentC]

I honestly think this is a good idea. I must be the only one.


I'm going to take a "wait and see" approach here. We are not heading back to WDW until late in 2014, so we'll just have to see what happens with this between now and then.

I am totally a waiter and seer on this. I can see how it could be absolutely horrible and I can see how it could work really well. Until I actually see it working, I can't have a true opinion.

I definitely understand the potential for long standby lines (but don't we have those already when the parks are busy?). I understand the worries about pre-planning. I tend to be a very last minute ADR planner. So, yeah, it could be horrible.

But what if this allows an obsessive planner to plan in advance while still allowing a less obsessive planner to sign on in the morning before going to the park or even hitting a kiosk at the park and scheduling 3 fast passes for the day. Is this really any worse than having to get to the park at rope drop to ride certain rides? Is it worse than getting to the TSMM fast pass line at 10 and getting a fast pass for 2?

I just don't know so until I do know I'm not going to worry. :)

[Stu29573]

...Go Wrong...Go Wrungf...Go Wrm,gh.....Gkf kjfa fh....[system reboot...fail...information dump terminated....]

[etibbetts]

I don't like this idea at all. I found on my trip in November the lines barely moved in standby because they stopped every minute to let tons of FP people go. This sounds like it would make it worse.

I really enjoyed not having any TS dining reservations this past trip because I could just decide what I wanted to do everyday, not think we'll I gotta go to Epcot tonight because that is where my ADR is. It would be nice if you could just play your vacation by ear, but Disney is making it impossible to do that.

I wish they would do away with ADR's and FP.

[BigB]

I'm curious to try the new system. Not a huge fan of planning EVERYTHING. We enjoy planning where to eat at night but we like to keep which park to go to open. We avoid the crowds by going during slower times. We don't carry our phones at all in DW. We are in our dream and prefer not to be woken up by a phone call. We know we aren't the only ones so I'm worried that the kiosks would be just as crowded as the attractions.

The plus for us right now is that we are going in December this year and will have plenty of time to listen to the reviews and learn how to maximize the system.

[DizneyFreak2002]

Well, seems like Disney is finally waking up to realize just how bad this RFID stuff is... Literally, over night, they changed the PIN requirements on purchases... No longer is it $50 or more... Now it is for EVERY purchase... Guess they realized what we all knew... Someone can steal your information off these RFID chips you will be forced to used...

Just when a Disney vacation was supposed to be fun and relaxing, they do something stupid like this... Now a Disney vacation will seem more like a chore than a vacation...

[Stu29573]

My last Disney vacation was definately more of a chore than a vacation. Due to the computer stsyem crashing, I was forced to stand in line for hours over multiple days to try and get everything worked out. Magical? Yes, if you find the DMV magical... That's why I think this will be sucha huge disaster. I simply don't think that Disney's computer people can pull it off and make it work reliably. The more reliance Disney puts on its computer system, the less likely they have of success....

[Janmac]

I honestly think this is a good idea. I must be the only one.

There are too many people in the parks and no organization. If this wristband system speeds up processes, and eliminates people clogging up areas, great!

I have a local acquaintance whose family just took their first WDW trip. As soon as she found out I knew about WDW, she began asking questions. HOWEVER, I will say she was VERY educated already on a lot of stuff. She had been online, reading books, etc. For what it's worth, they had a FABULOUS time and she came back gushing about how easy and convenient it all was (they did ME, DDP, stayed onsite, etc.) She honestly didn't have anything bad to say.

I think it's legitimate to have concerns when anything you "love" begins to change. I'm all about strapping on some device that makes things easier for me on vacation, and truthfully, it sounds like fun to get on my phone and be able to change around my FP schedule if I need to.

I'm going to take a "wait and see" approach here.

I agree with much of what Natalie says here. Disney is so huge it needs a way to organize info on guests. It will remain to be seen if this new-gen is the answer. I'd be very surprised if it works much at all out of the box, so to speak, but hopefully bugs can be worked out.

It'd be great to be able to get FPs for our group without one person heading in an opposite direction to get said FPs.

I was on the phone last week with a Disney CM about something at our resort (i.e., not dining, etc.) and mentioned the wristbands. He acted as tho he didn't know anything at all about RFID wrist bands. My hope is that he was supposed to profess ignorance until the official announcement.

We're heading down in just a few weeks, so I suppose we won't be seeing much of this at all.

Jan

[Quadstriker]

There are a few things I think we are missing here, and I'll mention one of them right now... How many times do you have to duck out of the way of a rogue ECV or stroller? In my experiences, plenty... And that is with people looking straight ahead... Now, imagine if you will these people looking down at their phone staring at the app and not in front of them... Yea, I wouldn't want to be the person that is struck...

Good grief this is ridiculous.

People look at their cell phones all the time, everywhere. There's not going to be a rash of "looking at app" related injuries at WDW because of NextGen. That's absurd.

Enjoyed the laugh though.

[dtootsie42]

Not crazy about the idea of wearing a wristband however I'm trying to keep an open mind about the whole thing.

Dec 1997-Contemporary
Dec 1999-Poly
Dec 2001-Poly concierge
June 2002-Disneyland (off site)
Dec 2003-Poly concierge
Dec 2005-Poly concierge
Dec 2007-Poly concierge
Oct 2008-Disneyland (off site)
Dec 2009-Poly concierge
Nov 2010-Disneyland Hotel
Feb. 2012- Grand Floridian concierge celebrating 25 years of marriage just hubby and I
September 2012- DisneyLand Paradise Pier

[BrerGnat]

Well, seems like Disney is finally waking up to realize just how bad this RFID stuff is... Literally, over night, they changed the PIN requirements on purchases... No longer is it $50 or more... Now it is for EVERY purchase... Guess they realized what we all knew... Someone can steal your information off these RFID chips you will be forced to used...



It has nothing to do with anyone stealing anything.

The issue is that the RFID reader/charger needs to be manually "cleared" by a CM by pressing a button after EVERY transaction, or purchases will continue on the last RFID scanned. Therefore, you could purchase a coke, walk away, and if the CM doesn't hit the button, you could pay for Tom's coke, Sally's bottle of water, Jane's ice cream bar, etc. until such a time as the CM "remembers" to hit the button.

In order to prevent this from happening, a PIN is now required for all purchases.

[MargaretMessler]

But what if this allows an obsessive planner to plan in advance while still allowing a less obsessive planner to sign on in the morning before going to the park or even hitting a kiosk at the park and scheduling 3 fast passes for the day. Is this really any worse than having to get to the park at rope drop to ride certain rides? Is it worse than getting to the TSMM fast pass line at 10 and getting a fast pass for 2?


If there is a significant enough "hold back" of fastpasses, ADRs, etc. for those who prefer not to have to plan every breath of their vacation months in advance, I guess I'm ok with it. I just still don't see the need.

[Altair]

I realize prices have gone up, but they built Epcot in 1982 for $1 Billion. I don't see how this can cost $1.5 to $2 Billion.:confused:

[TinkerbellT421]

It has nothing to do with anyone stealing anything.

The issue is that the RFID reader/charger needs to be manually "cleared" by a CM by pressing a button after EVERY transaction, or purchases will continue on the last RFID scanned. Therefore, you could purchase a coke, walk away, and if the CM doesn't hit the button, you could pay for Tom's coke, Sally's bottle of water, Jane's ice cream bar, etc. until such a time as the CM "remembers" to hit the button.

In order to prevent this from happening, a PIN is now required for all purchases.

And this is "better" technology? Lol, sound like disney took three steps forward and ten steps back lol. That would infuriate me. I don't know if I read this anywhere legit or just in comments, but is the whole purchasing thing "opt-out able"? We don't put cards on reservations, we want nothing to do with that.

[BrerGnat]

And this is "better" technology? Lol, sound like disney took three steps forward and ten steps back lol. That would infuriate me. I don't know if I read this anywhere legit or just in comments, but is the whole purchasing thing "opt-out able"? We don't put cards on reservations, we want nothing to do with that.

From everything I've read, the entire system is optional. You do not have to "opt in."

In my opinion, entering a 4 digit PIN on a keypad is a lot less of a hassle than having to dig a card out of my wallet every time I want to make a purchase.

Remember, this is still very much in testing phases. This is the time where they work out the problems with the system. This was caught early. And, they found a solution. Great. Hope they find and work out the rest of the bugs before the initial launch. Social media has a way of exposing things that you would have never even been made aware of a couple of years ago...

For what it's worth, the Disney Cruise line effectively already uses this technology. And, it works flawlessly during a cruise. Your card is used for EVERYTHING on the ship. You board, lock up your wallet in the room safe, and never have to see it again until you disembark.

[DizneyFreak2002]

It has nothing to do with anyone stealing anything.

The issue is that the RFID reader/charger needs to be manually "cleared" by a CM by pressing a button after EVERY transaction, or purchases will continue on the last RFID scanned. Therefore, you could purchase a coke, walk away, and if the CM doesn't hit the button, you could pay for Tom's coke, Sally's bottle of water, Jane's ice cream bar, etc. until such a time as the CM "remembers" to hit the button.

In order to prevent this from happening, a PIN is now required for all purchases.

You do realize the information on your RFID bracelet can be stolen right? Google it... Stealing info off of RFID chips is very easy to do...

[DizneyFreak2002]

From everything I've read, the entire system is optional. You do not have to "opt in."



And if you don't opt in then your chore, I mean Disney vacation will be less magical... so, is it really optional?

[1DisneyNut]

You do realize the information on your RFID bracelet can be stolen right? Google it... Stealing info off of RFID chips is very easy to do...

It is extremely easy and it is fairly easy to build the necessary hardware yourself. You would think they are encrypting it in some fashion but it can probably be hacked pretty easily once someone gets their hands on one and takes it home.


And if you don't opt in then your chore, I mean Disney vacation will be less magical... so, is it really optional?

I completely agree. It isn't really optional unless you want to be standing in long lines. It is comparable to trying to get in the table service restaurants as I mentioned in a previous post. If you don't schedule an ADR 6 months ahead of time, it is completely frustrating. Of course that is one of the reasons I hardly ever do table service at WDW anymore.

[Ian]

When this whole thing was very first announced, I was totally underwhelmed by the whole thing.

Now, after getting more information and seeing a lot more of the details, I have to say I'm totally underwhelmed. :secret:

[DizneyFreak2002]

It is extremely easy and it is fairly easy to build the necessary hardware yourself. You would think they are encrypting it in some fashion but it can probably be hacked pretty easily once someone gets their hands on one and takes it home.

Thank you... This is exactly what I was trying to say... It is very easy to rip off someone's information from the RFID chips... If someone wants the info bad enough, and many people do, they will get it...

Reading many of the sites, this is one of the major concerns people are expressing... Well, this and the tracking/privacy issues this NextGen RFID nonsese brings up... How much you want to bet that Disney, who we all know monitors these Disney fan sites, saw the concern and pretty negative backlash and made changes to the PIN policy to help alleviate concerns? I'll bet my last bottom dollar...

And this isn't even the biggest concern people have... I'm trying to get more info but, if what's been said about this is true (and honestly, I cannot verify it right now that it is), PIN codes and stolen identity is going to be the least of Disney's worry... Wait until there are larger complaints about certain aspects...



I completely agree. It isn't really optional unless you want to be standing in long lines. It is comparable to trying to get in the table service restaurants as I mentioned in a previous post. If you don't schedule an ADR 6 months ahead of time, it is completely frustrating. Of course that is one of the reasons I hardly ever do table service at WDW anymore.I refuse to ever do table service in WDW ever again... Not when I find much better meals on International Drive and along I-4 for much cheaper than Disney's prices...

[Figment!]

You would think they are encrypting it in some fashion ...

Alternatively, it appears the security concern is being addressed by only placing an arbitrary ID code on the bracelet to identify the Guest in Disney's database and not any actual personal information.

[DizneyFreak2002]

Right from Bob Iger's mouth:


"If we could sell your behavior to an advertiser -- I am actually pretty bullish about what technology is going to allow in terms of behavioral tracking. I think we are going to have information to sell to marketers."

Now are you all understanding what is behind this facade of "improving guest experience"?

[Quadstriker]

Now that's the first thing I've seen that makes sense as to what all this was really about.

[kbean]

I don't think anyone knows how this is going to play out once in motion. There's gonna be a bugs that will need to be worked out. I bet there will be changes to this new "change" in the future. Like even being scraped a few yrs down the road if this turns out to be a bust.

[March Hare]

If you are truly afraid of DATA MINING or them tracking your every move then get yourself a RFID blocking bag and only take your wristband out when you absolutely have to that way you can't be tracked and no one can access the info on it

[BrerGnat]

Goodness. Let's all just put on our tinfoil hats and wait for the end of the world. :rolleyes:

RFID can be stolen. Yes. So can your credit card number by a PERSON. I had my cc info stolen from a Disneyland CM the very first time I purchased an annual pass at the ticket window in 2001. She proceeded to charge up over $300 on my credit card on some electronics website. And, I saw the bogus charge, called my cc company, and that was that. They handled it. I have had credit cards for over 15 years. I've had a few of them compromised. I've never encountered resistance in dealing with fraudulent charges. That's the whole point of credit cards...there is fraud protection built in. I trust it.

You know what I don't trust? Cash. And, debit cards, and CHECKS. Goodness, what with all the ability to electronically wire funds using just a routing and checking number...they are the LEAST secure thing around. Yet, people still use them regularly.

Your Disney RFID bracelet needs to be tied to your room charge, which needs to be backed up with a credit card. It's very easy to monitor your credit card and watch for bogus charges. It is something everyone should do very regularly anyway. I have no fear of this sort of thing.

Once you step foot on Disney property, you are on THEIR property. They have every right to track your every move if they choose.

My husband is in the military. He is, essentially, government property. If they decided one day that they wanted to attach a GPS unit on him, in order to follow his every move, he would be totally okay with it. Seriously. We talked about it recently. They OWN him. They have a right to know what he is doing all the time if they so choose. No one is forced to go to Disney World. If you CHOOSE to go, you play by their rules. If you don't like them, don't go. Simple as that.

Turning this NexGen thing into some sinister plot by Disney is ridiculous. All inclusive resorts like Sandals and Beaches have been using this technology for years. Great Wolf Lodge has this technology also, as do many cruise lines. It's not new.

[Jared]

When this whole thing was very first announced, I was totally underwhelmed by the whole thing.

Now, after getting more information and seeing a lot more of the details, I have to say I'm totally underwhelmed. :secret:
I agree. But I'm stopping, for now, at underwhelmed. The nefarious conspiracy angle to this whole thing is a bit ridiculous, I think. This is not an evil plot. This is not a system designed to ruin your vacation. In fact, I'd pretty much guarantee that for 99% of guests, this whole MyMagic+ will be viewed as the coolest thing ever. Heck, my family thought the RFID system at Great Wolf Lodge in the Poconos was awesome, and that's a miniscule fraction of what Disney is planning to unveil.

Without a doubt, this is a boondoggle. It goes without saying that the $1.5 billion would have been better spent on attractions and infrastructure improvements, at least from the guest perspective. Ultimately, though, I see this as neutral at worst and a marginal improvement at best.

[BrerGnat]

Heck, my family thought the RFID system at Great Wolf Lodge in the Poconos was awesome, and that's a miniscule fraction of what Disney is planning to unveil..

Exactly.

On our next trip, in 2014, we will be taking a "newbie" (my BIL). Honestly, knowing him, this is going to BLOW HIS MIND. He is going to think it's the coolest thing ever. This guy is impressed with how the 4th of July fireworks in San Francisco are synced to music. I was with them this past 4th. It was a TINY fireworks display, rather pathetic, and he was so impressed with it. I was like "you just wait until you see what Disney does with fireworks." :mickey:

Honestly, I think many people here fail to realize how impressive this type of technology is to the majority of people out there.

It is going to blow people away.

[Stu29573]

Ok, a bit of a rant here. Please feel free to go to the next post if you don't want to hear it.

To me, the whole Disneyworld experience has gotten too complicated. I am one of those visitors who always left my cell phone in the room because I don't want any contact with the "outside world" while I am in the parks. I want to be a world away from schedules, stress, deadlines, and hassles. Now I'm being told that in order to get the "full experience" I have to stay connected 24/7.

There are fewer and fewer spontanious experiences in the parks. Everything is a competition to get there first, be the most informed, be the first in line. Can you visit WDW without using the "perks" that keep us all on schedule? Sure, but its not the same as it was.

The joy of wandering the parks and just discovering things is gone. You are now a cog in a huge mouse shaped machine, and you feel it (or at least I do). When the computers crashed with all my information on my last trip, I was shown how much this is true. I wasn't a "guest," I was a number. A number in a machine that didn't care.

Now with the economy as it is, I may never get back to WDW. The truely frightening part is how I am beginning to genuinely not care. My WDW is dead. I guess I will cling to my memories of a simpler more joyous time and let the technocrats take over.

[Altair]

To me, the whole Disneyworld experience has gotten too complicated.

I agree with your post completly.:mickey::thumbsup:

[Stu29573]

Goodness. Let's all just put on our tinfoil hats and wait for the end of the world. :rolleyes:

RFID can be stolen. Yes. So can your credit card number by a PERSON. I had my cc info stolen from a Disneyland CM the very first time I purchased an annual pass at the ticket window in 2001. She proceeded to charge up over $300 on my credit card on some electronics website. And, I saw the bogus charge, called my cc company, and that was that. They handled it. I have had credit cards for over 15 years. I've had a few of them compromised. I've never encountered resistance in dealing with fraudulent charges. That's the whole point of credit cards...there is fraud protection built in. I trust it.

You know what I don't trust? Cash. And, debit cards, and CHECKS. Goodness, what with all the ability to electronically wire funds using just a routing and checking number...they are the LEAST secure thing around. Yet, people still use them regularly.

Your Disney RFID bracelet needs to be tied to your room charge, which needs to be backed up with a credit card. It's very easy to monitor your credit card and watch for bogus charges. It is something everyone should do very regularly anyway. I have no fear of this sort of thing.

Once you step foot on Disney property, you are on THEIR property. They have every right to track your every move if they choose.

My husband is in the military. He is, essentially, government property. If they decided one day that they wanted to attach a GPS unit on him, in order to follow his every move, he would be totally okay with it. Seriously. We talked about it recently. They OWN him. They have a right to know what he is doing all the time if they so choose. No one is forced to go to Disney World. If you CHOOSE to go, you play by their rules. If you don't like them, don't go. Simple as that.

Turning this NexGen thing into some sinister plot by Disney is ridiculous. All inclusive resorts like Sandals and Beaches have been using this technology for years. Great Wolf Lodge has this technology also, as do many cruise lines. It's not new.

Although I agree that the conspiracy theories are a bit overwrought, you may make your point better by being a little less condescending. I was insulted and I basically agree with you....

[Janmac]

To me, the whole Disneyworld experience has gotten too complicated.


I submit that this is true for a minority of Disney guests. Those who are paying attention to the sorts of things we are talking about in this thread.

Most WDW guests aren't going to notice or care.

Jan

[Ian]

Right from Bob Iger's mouth:

"If we could sell your behavior to an advertiser -- I am actually pretty bullish about what technology is going to allow in terms of behavioral tracking. I think we are going to have information to sell to marketers."

Now are you all understanding what is behind this facade of "improving guest experience"?WHOA! You're taking that quote completely and totally out of context and making it say something that Iger didn't intend for it to say. Iger was strictly discussing the ability to track people's preferences (specifically their shopping preferences) on the Internet not in their theme parks.

Now if you want to make the case that if he feels that way about data mining on the Internet he also feels that way about data mining in the parks, then okay ... I guess I could go there with you. But truth is, I don't think Iger thinks all that much about the theme parks. If he did, and this was some company wide conspiracy to furtively track all of us down to the nth degree so they could bilk every nickel out of us that they can, why wouldn't Iger also be rolling it out at DL, TDL, DLP, etc.?

No, I could maybe believe that TDO is interested in that aspect of it, but I don't think Iger's quote has any relevance here at all.


To me, the whole Disneyworld experience has gotten too complicated.This, on the other hand, I completely agree with. I've said as much on the podcasts ... you need a PhD and a Microsoft Project Plan anymore just to have a WDW vacation.

Just not my idea of fun, sorry. :shrug:

[Stu29573]

I submit that this is true for a minority of Disney guests. Those who are paying attention to the sorts of things we are talking about in this thread.

Most WDW guests aren't going to notice or care.

Jan

Perhaps. A little knowledge can be dangerous. Simply knowing such "perks" exist can lead to a desire to compete and take advantage of all the bells and shiney baubles offered, when it is not completely needed.

Having said that, however, I have a friend who went on her first WDW trip this Christmas and has no desire to ever go back. She stated that it was much more stressful than actually being at work, and that she felt that she was always "not in the loop" on what was going on, how things were done at WDW, etc. Surely there is a happy medium somewhere.

I feel WDW needs to embrace the KISS principle. (Keep It Simple, Stupid)...or at least give the impression that they do. If I have to work harder at being at a resort than I do in my everyday life, then that ain't no vacation.

[Jared]

To me, the whole Disneyworld experience has gotten too complicated.
I still contend that it's only that complicated if you want it to be. I'm going down there for three days over Martin Luther King weekend. We booked it, without any exaggeration, 12 days before we're leaving. We may or may not make dining reservations. Often, I just make them once I arrive. We rarely use Fastpass, so I can't imagine doing too much with Fastpass+. I just don't quite understand why everybody is saying that going to Disney has become a chore. For people that like to plan, the option is there. For people that don't, we still don't have to.

[Dopey's Girl]

Goodness. Let's all just put on our tinfoil hats and wait for the end of the world. :rolleyes:

Dies laughing!!!!:tiphat:

I'm reserving judgement still on this one. If they keep the timing for reserving Wishes viewing spots and Fastpasses to a reasonable time period (24 hours out or so) I'm ok with it. I don't want to have to do all of this 6 months out though. I'll never see Wishes or ride Soarin again if that's the case. I already refuse to make many ADR's because I can't possibly know what I want to eat in 6 months!

I'm a planner at work, I refuse to make vacation anything like work. I don't have Disney spreadsheets so I know where I need to be to have fun every second of every trip. It's not fun to me, I know it is to some, but I refuse to vacation like that.

[Stu29573]

I still contend that it's only that complicated if you want it to be. I'm going down there for three days over Martin Luther King weekend. We booked it, without any exaggeration, 12 days before we're leaving. We may or may not make dining reservations. Often, I just make them once I arrive. We rarely use Fastpass, so I can't imagine doing too much with Fastpass+. I just don't quite understand why everybody is saying that going to Disney has become a chore. For people that like to plan, the option is there. For people that don't, we still don't have to.

But if you want the "whole experience" you have to play the game. Rather simplistic example: We didn't ride Toy Story Mania last trip because we never were able to get Fastpasses. Now, it can be argued that was our fault for not getting there on time, and that Next Gen will solve that issue by letting us get them beforehand.

However, I contend that the same result could be obtained by not having Fastpass at all. How many stories have we heard about how Fastpass actually slows down wait times? If you have attractions that are always too crowded, maybe you need more attractions to disperse the crowds, not some scheduling gimmick.

[Janmac]

Having said that, however, I have a friend who went on her first WDW trip this Christmas and has no desire to ever go back. She stated that it was much more stressful than actually being at work, and that she felt that she was always "not in the loop" on what was going on, how things were done at WDW, etc. Surely there is a happy medium somewhere.

I feel WDW needs to embrace the KISS principle. (Keep It Simple, Stupid)...or at least give the impression that they do. If I have to work harder at being at a resort than I do in my everyday life, then that ain't no vacation.

Absolutely agree - don't really care to work harder on vacation. Then it's not a vacation. And there is the can't take it back problem. Once I escalate to a different level, regarding vacation - such as ADRs - it's difficult to back off. KISS would be nice.

Regarding your friend's experience, I have the tale of two brothers, both in their 40s, who were going to go to WDW with their families - in July. They'd both previously been as teens. Somehow they got reservations on different weeks, one leaving WDW a day after the other arrived. (This was due to a technical snafu with one brother's bank at home, not Disney - long story)

Anyway, the older brother wanted spontaneous, winging it each day, stayed off property. The younger asked me for planning advice, made a few ADRs, avoided EMH experiences in the parks and stayed on property (FOQ).

Guess which brother (younger) was planning a repeat trip the next summer and which one (older) claims he's not going back ever.

Some of this reflects the personalities of the two brothers. Going with the flow, working with the system, a tendency to focus on the positive.

It's also difficult to get back that newness, exploration, discovery. We know too much. To that end, the last two trips, and this upcoming one, we have included newbies in our group.

Jan

[BrerGnat]

We don't take the kind of vacations where we plan much at all anymore. We just make the travel reservations and go. Winging it usually works out really well for us. Our kids' autism and related issues make it difficult to formulate a plan and stick with it. We have to be flexible. Our most enjoyable trips have been since we had our kids and stopped with the obsessive planning.

I think people have forgotten that there used to be NO Fastpass. For the people saying they didn't get to ride X attraction because the FP were all gone, or they didn't want to deal with the rope drop stampede (which I agree is insane) why didn't you just wait in the standby line? :confused: Honestly, I want to know. If I really wanted to do something, I'd be willing to wait for it.

If this new system allows you to get your FP with the touch of a button, at a time that works for you, on the day of, what's so bad about that?

[March Hare]

Goodness. Let's all just put on our tinfoil hats and wait for the end of the world. :rolleyes:

RFID can be stolen. Yes. So can your credit card number by a PERSON. I had my cc info stolen from a Disneyland CM the very first time I purchased an annual pass at the ticket window in 2001. She proceeded to charge up over $300 on my credit card on some electronics website. And, I saw the bogus charge, called my cc company, and that was that. They handled it. I have had credit cards for over 15 years. I've had a few of them compromised. I've never encountered resistance in dealing with fraudulent charges. That's the whole point of credit cards...there is fraud protection built in. I trust it.

You know what I don't trust? Cash. And, debit cards, and CHECKS. Goodness, what with all the ability to electronically wire funds using just a routing and checking number...they are the LEAST secure thing around. Yet, people still use them regularly.

Your Disney RFID bracelet needs to be tied to your room charge, which needs to be backed up with a credit card. It's very easy to monitor your credit card and watch for bogus charges. It is something everyone should do very regularly anyway. I have no fear of this sort of thing.

Once you step foot on Disney property, you are on THEIR property. They have every right to track your every move if they choose.

My husband is in the military. He is, essentially, government property. If they decided one day that they wanted to attach a GPS unit on him, in order to follow his every move, he would be totally okay with it. Seriously. We talked about it recently. They OWN him. They have a right to know what he is doing all the time if they so choose. No one is forced to go to Disney World. If you CHOOSE to go, you play by their rules. If you don't like them, don't go. Simple as that.

Turning this NexGen thing into some sinister plot by Disney is ridiculous. All inclusive resorts like Sandals and Beaches have been using this technology for years. Great Wolf Lodge has this technology also, as do many cruise lines. It's not new.

That was the point of my post if you are truly afraid of that kind of the situation then do something about it and stop whining. Oh and by the way they can track you every time your key to the world, credit cards, or debit cards Big brother is ALWAYS watching:spy:

[Aurora]

I still contend that it's only that complicated if you want it to be. I'm going down there for three days over Martin Luther King weekend. We booked it, without any exaggeration, 12 days before we're leaving. We may or may not make dining reservations. Often, I just make them once I arrive. We rarely use Fastpass, so I can't imagine doing too much with Fastpass+. I just don't quite understand why everybody is saying that going to Disney has become a chore. For people that like to plan, the option is there. For people that don't, we still don't have to.

PLEASE post a trip report when you return. I'm really interested to find out your experience over MLK weekend. We are also, for the most part, minimal planners, and I'd like to see what your take is on this vacation.

As for MyMagic+ or FastPass+ or MakeMeIntoARobotMickey+ or whatever they're calling it these days, I do feel sorry for the people who, like Stu's friend, feel like they're out of the loop. I hope when this is rolled out that ALL guests are included, not just those on property, and that people don't feel like they're sacrificing parts of their vacation if they opt out.

[Jared]

But if you want the "whole experience" you have to play the game. Rather simplistic example: We didn't ride Toy Story Mania last trip because we never were able to get Fastpasses.
There were excruciatingly long standby lines long before the advent of Fastpass -- and Fastpass+. For many people, their most vivod memories of visiting Walt Disney World are from waiting in line. It's nostalgic for some folks. It seems like these days, people ignore the fact that Space Mountain has had a 90-minute long line for decades.

You didn't miss Toy Story Mania because you couldn't get a Fastpass. You didn't ride because you balked at the wait time.

[Stu29573]

There were excruciatingly long standby lines long before the advent of Fastpass -- and Fastpass+. For many people, their most vivod memories of visiting Walt Disney World are from waiting in line. It's nostalgic for some folks. It seems like these days, people ignore the fact that Space Mountain has had a 90-minute long line for decades.

You didn't miss Toy Story Mania because you couldn't get a Fastpass. You didn't ride because you balked at the wait time.

True enough, but with more attractions, there would be shorter lines.

[Jared]

PLEASE post a trip report when you return. I'm really interested to find out your experience over MLK weekend. We are also, for the most part, minimal planners, and I'd like to see what your take is on this vacation.
Perhaps I will. In general, the key is getting to the parks early. I don't care what sort of technology Disney introduces -- get to the parks early, and you'll get on rides with minimal waits.

[Jared]

True enough, but with more attractions, there would be shorter lines.
On this we will always agree.

[DizneyFreak2002]

A friend of mine is coming up to visit her family for a few days... We'll be hanging out a bit.. She told me she has info regarding this NextGen stuff... Said I won't like what I hear... I'll have to wait til she tells me whatever... probably stuff we already know.. but if there is anything new, I'll pass it on if it sounds legit (or i can verify with people who do know what is going on)...

As for anything else said so far in this thread, be careful putting your blind trust in the mouse... That is all until later...

[BrerGnat]

True enough, but with more attractions, there would be shorter lines.

This, along with controlled capacity would create shorter lines.

With LESS Fastpass, there would also be shorter lines.

Compare:
Disneyland Park: 55 listed attractions, MAX capacity: 85,000 guests, 5 FASTPASS attractions

Magic Kingdom: 36 listed attractions, MAX capacity: 100,000 guests, 9 FASTPASS attractions.

Disneyland has a much better handle on crowd control and standby times. You don't need to rely on FP over there.

WDW is Fastpass obsessed. People have forgotten how to wait in lines.

[Stu29573]

This, along with controlled capacity would create shorter lines.

With LESS Fastpass, there would also be shorter lines.

Compare:
Disneyland Park: 55 listed attractions, MAX capacity: 85,000 guests, 5 FASTPASS attractions

Magic Kingdom: 36 listed attractions, MAX capacity: 100,000 guests, 9 FASTPASS attractions.

Disneyland has a much better handle on crowd control and standby times. You don't need to rely on FP over there.

WDW is Fastpass obsessed. People have forgotten how to wait in lines.

Yep, this was my point. They actually are making things worse with Fastpass. Prime example: Peter Pan.

[BrerGnat]

Yep, this was my point. They actually are making things worse with Fastpass. Prime example: Peter Pan.

Yep. Along with Soarin. Toy Story Midway Mania.

I could go on.

[mariak]

I experienced some of this first wave of “things to come” a couple nights ago while making dining reservations online. I had to update account info and accept the new Disney Experience Terms and Conditions (which I printed…It gave more info on the upcoming changes) before I could book anything. The site, which many already know, has changed a lot. It was different…I’m hoping for the better…but still soooo slow!!! I did like that they FINALLY got to the point where we don’t have to enter information and credit card numbers EVERY SINGLE TIME we make a new reservation!

I’m hoping that these changes will make things better but, so far, I’m not liking the bracelet idea! A few years ago, on a ski trip to Copper Mountain, CO, we received lift tickets that, apparently had RF chips in them for our dedicated BeeLine Passes (like a Fast Pass for those staying on property) because we hung them around our necks (or stuck them in our pockets) and, as we walked through the “scanners”, it would pick up the signal and release the turnstile to let us enter the line. It read through our coats so why can’t Disney do the same type of thing with cards? I’d rather have a card in an outer pocket of my purse and just hold it up to the scanning device….or around my neck. Those bracelets looked big and clunky. Plus, I don’t want any more tan lines that what I get with my watch. Since the new Terms and Conditions references “radio frequency cards and other devices”, I hope that the use of RF cards will still be an option and the bracelets will not be the final word on that.

OK, so, a while back, Melanie mentioned (on a podcast) that she needs to not be so quick to “poopoo” things. I guess I should take her advice. When we first had to start entering credit card numbers to make reservations, I wasn’t real happy about that but I’m now convinced that it’s the only way that we were able to get reservations at ‘Ohana, 1900 Park Fare, and LeCellier on our last minute(like 2wks out!) booking for I-15. It holds people accountable for reservations that they double book. Now guests are cancelling extras which frees up reservations closer to the dates. In my opinion, that was definitely a change for the better.

Trying not to “Poopoo” the changes and crossing my fingers for Better Magic!

Maria

[Mitzie]

For some reason the fact that WDW can track my every move doesn't bother me. I read an article talking about high schools using the same technology to track where students are in the building. Groups are up in arms about it. I have a high school age DD and it wouldn't bother me in the least. If you are where you are supposed to be when you are supposed to be there why do you care or what do you have to hide. Working with a high school that has 4000+ kids I can see where this technology would be helpful. IE: drug deals/usuage, theft, violence..

As a crazy planner..booking ADR's and fast passes well in advance wouldn't bother me either..it is part of the fun but we all like to travel differently...

[waymickey]

I don't mind the wrist band but for the other things I at this point am not a big fan. Some of the stuff I have read seems that you must have a smart phone with you at all times to make things work. I don't have a smart phone and I don't bring my phone to the park. I like the idea of being immersed in my vacation away from the "real world". I like being spotaenous and making decsions on rides and food as they come. I know I will not be forced to participate in all the new technology so I am not overly concerned. But it does seem like I may be left in longer wait time lines if i keep going in the "classic " way.

[Aurora]

Perhaps I will. In general, the key is getting to the parks early. I don't care what sort of technology Disney introduces -- get to the parks early, and you'll get on rides with minimal waits.

This was our tried-and-true MO for every trip, and during our trip in June 2011, we got to the MK right before opening ... with swarms of other people. I was shocked, because in many years of visiting, I was used to practically having the park to ourselves that first hour or so. This time was definitely different.

That's part of why I'm very interested in your experience visiting over a semi-popular weekend. Want to see if the conventional wisdom is still holding true to judge whether our experience on that trip was an exception.

[Cheshire_Girl]

Ok, To me, the whole Disneyworld experience has gotten too complicated.

I agree...I don't want to be "connected 24/7". I want to see Goofy wandering around the park. I don't want the fancy perk if it means I have to watch the clock in the park to make sure I arrive at the designated place on time. I'll wait in line for Splash Mountain-if I know the laughing place is what it should be-dancing fountains and all...However, it seems like those days are gone and I can either stop going and stop searching for that lil bit of magic-or I can embrace the fact that change happens whether I like it or not. I refuse to let all the magic drain out of the World. I will always look for it in the Tiki Room, and on the monorail, and walking down main street. And count myself lucky that its still there for those of us who wish to find it...
And as for all the big brother conspiracy stuff floating around on this subject-Really, if me wearing a bracelet helps them figure out that Stitch is horrible and his presence just craps up the place...then I say TRACK AWAY!

[Zawadi]

WDW is going technology mad :mad:

As an international guest I don't want to wear a bracelet for 14 days without the possibility of removing it. Considering that some of that time I will be outside WDW.

I can cope with booking ADRs up to T-180 days but booking FP+ that far out is stupid :crazy:

I refuse to use android apps and pay the ridiculously high data roaming charges.

As previously commented on... What's wrong with ditching FPs all together and allowing the lines to flow FREELY without FPs blocking them.

WDW should spend the money on improving the attractions and reopen some mothballed areas like the theatre in Studios that was last used for the Hunchback production.

[DizneyRox]

... reopen some mothballed areas like the theatre in Studios that was last used for the Hunchback production.
Which was the best theater show in WDW... Still can't understand why it was shuttered, except it was probably an expensive production with all the people necessary..

[DizneyRox]

And as for all the big brother conspiracy stuff floating around on this subject-Really, if me wearing a bracelet helps them figure out that Stitch is horrible and his presence just craps up the place...then I say TRACK AWAY!
Or, just ask, I'll tell you that Stitch is horrible and his presence craps up the place. That could have saved them over a billion dollars!

[caryrae]

Not sure if this was mentioned here yet but did I hear right today on the news that parents can upload their kids name or something and when the kid with the wristband gets close to a character, the character will get a message in an earpiece and they can call the kid by name or something like that?

[yankeesfan123]

The ONLY thing that bothers me about the new system is making fast pass reservations far in advance (if that is indeed how it will be done).

I plan my trip to incredible precision. However, sometimes plans change.

If I plan on visiting the Animal Kingdom on a Monday and have a fast pass reserved for Everest 60 days in advance, but the weather forecast that is released just a few days prior calls for rain showers all day, I will no longer want to visit the Animal Kingdom because, in my opinion, the Animal Kingdom is the worst park in the rain.

Even if you book an ADR for 6pm in a park, it does not necessarily mean you are spending the other hours of the day at that park. So while it might make sense to book an ADR, people who like to park hop throughout the day based on crowds and such would be at a disadvantage.

I think if the window to reserve a fast pass was 48 hours in advance, or even a week in advance, it might be OK. But having to reserve a fast pass months in advance when weather conditions are unknown, Fantasmic and other parade times change, and even park hour and EMH hours/days change, it is not practical to reserve a fast pass for a specific park too far in advance.

I would love to see ADRs tied to a fast pass, however. I think it would be great that if you book an ADR, you then had the option immediately after to select one attraction in that park you would like to go to. For example, if you booked an ADR at 50s Prime Time Cafe online for 6pm, you would also have the option of selecting to receive a fast pass for ToT for the hours of 7-8pm since it is known by the guest and the resort that you will definitely be in the park at that exact time.

[BrerGnat]

Some more info:

Guests with room reservation + theme park ticket will be able to participate in MyMagic+ (info regarding AP holders has not been released)

Guests will receive the wristbands at HOME, prior to the trip (like the luggage tags). Guests will be able to check in online 60 days in advance of arrival. The Magic Band will allow guests the opportunity to BYPASS the check in desk entirely, opting to receive a text message or email with your resort room number when it's ready. You will be able to go straight to your room when it's ready.

Fastpasses will be bookable 60 days in advance, no more. (info up to date at this time) You will only be able to do this once you are within 60 days of your vacation.

Disney will ask the name and date of birth of everyone in your party. This will be used for the purpose of identifying birthdays and knowing guests names ahead of time for ADRs, character meets, etc.

You will only be able to book 3 FP per person/day. You can only pre book FP for ONE park per day.

Disney has said that you WILL have the flexibility to change your FP day of.

In addition, Disney has addressed the privacy concerns, noting that guest privacy is of top priority. I have heard that you will be able to CHOOSE how much information will be "viewable" through your Magic Band. I.E. you may be able to leave off names/dates of birth from being accessible, opting to be identified instead only by a number tied to your resort folio.

The ability to withhold charging privileges will be the same as it currently is. You can choose to deactivate a magic band from being allowed to charge to the room, which I believe will be the default for children on a reservation.

[Jared]

The Magic Band will allow guests the opportunity to BYPASS the check in desk entirely, opting to receive a text message or email with your resort room number when it's ready. You will be able to go straight to your room when it's ready.

I'm sorry, but that's awesome.

[BriarRose0708]

I'm sorry, but that's awesome.

No need to be sorry because that IS freakin' awesome!

[Stu29573]

No need to be sorry because that IS freakin' awesome!

Until the system crashes and it takes you three "freakin awesome" days standing in the concierge line trying to get it all sorted out. True story with the old system. My "best memory" of the trip: Being on the monorail between Epcot and the Magic Kingdom at 7:00 at night and arguing with the resort because they checked us out of our first room, and then out of our next room, leaving us with no room at all. Ah, memories.... It was resolved at the resort after MVMCP at 1:30 a.m.... But there were still plenty of other problems with charges that were not ours, a dining plan that vanished, etc....

[Soph and Han's Mom]

Hey Natalie...

Do you happen to know if the room reservations and theme park tickets have to be purchased together in a package to participate in the MyMagic+ program? I ask because we typically do a room only reservation and just pick our tickets up when we get there. I think all the new implementations sound pretty cool, and I'd like to be able to check it out this summer!

Thanks for all the neat info you shared. I always enjoy reading your posts:thumbsup:

[Aurora]

Waiting to hear more information about the park ticket relationship. Hoping, but not hopeful, that no-expiration tickets will still be sold when this is all said and done.

[BrerGnat]

Hey Natalie...

Do you happen to know if the room reservations and theme park tickets have to be purchased together in a package to participate in the MyMagic+ program? I ask because we typically do a room only reservation and just pick our tickets up when we get there. I think all the new implementations sound pretty cool, and I'd like to be able to check it out this summer!

Thanks for all the neat info you shared. I always enjoy reading your posts:thumbsup:

All current information shared by Disney is that guests need only have a Resort Reservation and hold a valid theme park ticket in order to participate in the program. There was no specific mention of packages, as I imagine this would be impossible to regulate since there are many sources of tickets out there. We also buy our tickets not from Disney, usually from our military base ticket office.

However, I would imagine that if you have tickets you obtained separately, you would have to stop by guest relations or the resort front desk to "connect" the ticket to the RFID wristband, similar to how you can "load" previously obtained tickets onto a KTTW card.

[BriarRose0708]

Until the system crashes and it takes you three "freakin awesome" days standing in the concierge line trying to get it all sorted out. True story with the old system. My "best memory" of the trip: Being on the monorail between Epcot and the Magic Kingdom at 7:00 at night and arguing with the resort because they checked us out of our first room, and then out of our next room, leaving us with no room at all. Ah, memories.... It was resolved at the resort after MVMCP at 1:30 a.m.... But there were still plenty of other problems with charges that were not ours, a dining plan that vanished, etc....

I'm sorry you had that experience. I really like the thought of bypassing check in altogether and just going to my room. Of there was an issue or my wristband didn't unlock my door I'd just have to go work it out like in any other instance. In a perfect world there would be no problems, but sometimes those things happen even though it's not in the least magical.

[Stu29573]

I'm sorry you had that experience. I really like the thought of bypassing check in altogether and just going to my room. Of there was an issue or my wristband didn't unlock my door I'd just have to go work it out like in any other instance. In a perfect world there would be no problems, but sometimes those things happen even though it's not in the least magical.

I like the idea too, its just that we got burned so bad on that last trip that trust and goodwill still hasnt been reestablished. They did give us a free night, which I appreciated, but after loving Disney so long, it was really a slap in the face with reality. I fear I will never feel the same about them again.

[crltkcagle]

I have a question. Does this mean there will be three lines now? A fast pass line, a fastpass + line and a regular line? Are they going to eliminate the fastpass as it is now? So many questions. LOL We are going in May and I guess since we are staying on property and have tickets we will be able to participate in wristband experience?

[BrerGnat]

I have a question. Does this mean there will be three lines now? A fast pass line, a fastpass + line and a regular line? Are they going to eliminate the fastpass as it is now? So many questions. LOL We are going in May and I guess since we are staying on property and have tickets we will be able to participate in wristband experience?

I would think FP+ will share the normal FP line. All FP+ allows is to hold your FP electronically, vs. a paper ticket. You show up at the designated time and your RFID key/wristband allows you to enter the FP line (there will be special posts installed with a Mickey head that will turn green when you are good to enter the FP line...this will serve in lieu of the CM taking the ticket for those folks).

[RavsRuleDisney!]

After reading up on this development I'll keep it simple = I have a bad feeling about this set-up....don't try to fix what isn't broke....

[Ian]

I have a question. Does this mean there will be three lines now? A fast pass line, a fastpass + line and a regular line?No. There will still be just one FastPass line and it will be used by both FastPass+ users and regular FP holders.

The only difference between FP+ and regular FP is that you'll get FP+ in advance and it will be held on your RFID wristband.

[Jeri]

Some more info:

Guests with room reservation + theme park ticket will be able to participate in MyMagic+ (info regarding AP holders has not been released)

Guests will receive the wristbands at HOME, prior to the trip (like the luggage tags). Guests will be able to check in online 60 days in advance of arrival. The Magic Band will allow guests the opportunity to BYPASS the check in desk entirely, opting to receive a text message or email with your resort room number when it's ready. You will be able to go straight to your room when it's ready.



I guess this part confuses me. Will they be making us pay for our packages at 60 day out or even longer then too. Right now it is 45 days, so how can I check in if I have not paid for my package yet??

I too am reserving judgement on all of this. I will see what people have to say between now and when we go in October. It just seems to me a lot are getting all worked up over something we don't know 100% how it will work. I see so many saying they don't like it, aren't going to like it and they haven't tried it and it isn't being used completely yet.
Life I tell my kids "how can you say you don't like something if you haven't tried it yet."

[BrerGnat]

I guess this part confuses me. Will they be making us pay for our packages at 60 day out or even longer then too. Right now it is 45 days, so how can I check in if I have not paid for my package yet??

I too am reserving judgement on all of this. I will see what people have to say between now and when we go in October. It just seems to me a lot are getting all worked up over something we don't know 100% how it will work. I see so many saying they don't like it, aren't going to like it and they haven't tried it and it isn't being used completely yet.
Life I tell my kids "how can you say you don't like something if you haven't tried it yet."

Well, possibly they will make full payment on packages due 60 days out. However, remember, room only reservations don't need to be paid in full until check in. No plans to change that. Really, this system won't need to require that a trip is paid in full in order to make FP+ reservations.

[AndrewJackson]

I am interested to see how this system works, and am reserving judgement until I experience it.

Privacy - not too concerned about it. First of all, my understanding is that the RFID device only holds a unique ID. The Disney devices that read the RFID then connects to a database with your information. Also, if someone does have a reader device at WDW trying to steal your info, it's not as if it is a credit card or something. Are we really worried that someone will steal the info, then have some sort of way to embed that info onto another "fake" magic wristband? Seems far fetched.

Data mining - how is this any different than what they do now? When I am at Disney, I use my room key for everything - theme park admittance, charges, fastpass, etc.

I know I get tired of criss-crossing the park getting and using fastpasses. If Disney can come up with a fastpass system that lets me plan their use in an efficient manner, I am all for it.

[yankeesfan123]

So, as far as what is known right now, those of us who will be using paper tickets instead of purchasing a package will not participate in Fast Pass +, but will have all the same other perks (ADR connection, room key/check-in registration)?

Or will a paper ticket be able to be connected to the wristband?

Thanks! I usually purchase a package but I already have a paper ticket that was given to me as a christmas gift :mickey:

[BrerGnat]

So, as far as what is known right now, those of us who will be using paper tickets instead of purchasing a package will not participate in Fast Pass +, but will have all the same other perks (ADR connection, room key/check-in registration)?

Or will a paper ticket be able to be connected to the wristband?

Thanks! I usually purchase a package but I already have a paper ticket that was given to me as a christmas gift :mickey:

The only requirements to use FP+ are a hotel reservation and valid ticket media (which, frankly, I think they mention because you need park access somehow). The FP+ will actually be tied up with your room reservation, not your theme park ticket. Only resort guests may use FP+ (for now), so it doesn't actually need to connect to your pass, just your room key. Although, I suspect there will be a way to link your theme park ticket to your wristband.

[PopPhan]

Just thinking about this a little.....Starting to get a bit leery about the whole "plan"....

This will make EMH a bit "interesting"...Now that everyone can stay in the park during EMH, will all the open attractions have RFID readers so they can tell who is eligible and who is not. But, what of those who opt-out of using the MagicBands? Will they now be turned away? Highly unlikely, but who knows at this point?

Also, for the 'hard ticketed' parties...Will they be able to put your reservation on the MagicBand so that you would not need the separate hard ticket? If so, the same question comes up - Do you NEED a MagicBand to enter, or will the 'hard ticket' still be issued? I expect that, at least in the early going, it will be a separate 'hard ticket' only.

Not a fan of setting up FastPass+ (FP+) 60 days out. Who knows exactly which park you are going to visit 60 days prior to arrival? And allowing only 3 FP+ reservations per day, for a single park....What happens if you do not have a device that can run MyDisneyExperience with you and you forget your FP+ return times (since you scheduled them 60 days prior)? Also, not knowing if you could get more FastPasses in the park of choice for that day, or for another park, if you park hop, is disconcerting at best.

I, honestly, never had a problem with the KTTW cards - easy to just put in your pocket to carry around. It should not have been any problem to incorporate RFID chips into the card itself and forgo the hassles of making sure you wear your MagicBand every time you leave your room. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it!!"

Sorry for the rant...I got a bit carried away!! :D

[ChipNDale79]

Fastpasses will be bookable 60 days in advance, no more.

This is horrid, bye bye fun vacation, hello spreadsheet planned to the minute vacation. This is a very bad idea, this will make it harder and harder to do anything spontaneous at Disney and quite honestly, if it gets out of hand, might make us rethink our trips and whether they are worth going or not.

I'm not planning out every single second of my vacation like disney wants me to, they can shove it.

[buzznwoodysmom]

Sorry guys. I didn't read through all 5 or 6 pages, and I'm sure this was answered somehwere. When does this all kick in?

We are arriving on Feb. 9th and I'd like to know what to expect. While I have always said I hate this whole NextGen stuff, I have to admit..... booking a FP for Toy Story Mania seems very appealing right about now. LOL.

[seanyred]

Just thinking about this a little.....Starting to get a bit leery about the whole "plan"....

This will make EMH a bit "interesting"...Now that everyone can stay in the park during EMH, will all the open attractions have RFID readers so they can tell who is eligible and who is not. But, what of those who opt-out of using the MagicBands? Will they now be turned away? Highly unlikely, but who knows at this point?

Also, for the 'hard ticketed' parties...Will they be able to put your reservation on the MagicBand so that you would not need the separate hard ticket? If so, the same question comes up - Do you NEED a MagicBand to enter, or will the 'hard ticket' still be issued? I expect that, at least in the early going, it will be a separate 'hard ticket' only.

Not a fan of setting up FastPass+ (FP+) 60 days out. Who knows exactly which park you are going to visit 60 days prior to arrival? And allowing only 3 FP+ reservations per day, for a single park....What happens if you do not have a device that can run MyDisneyExperience with you and you forget your FP+ return times (since you scheduled them 60 days prior)? Also, not knowing if you could get more FastPasses in the park of choice for that day, or for another park, if you park hop, is disconcerting at best.

I, honestly, never had a problem with the KTTW cards - easy to just put in your pocket to carry around. It should not have been any problem to incorporate RFID chips into the card itself and forgo the hassles of making sure you wear your MagicBand every time you leave your room. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it!!"

Sorry for the rant...I got a bit carried away!! :D

The short answer...KTTW will have RFID already in the cards. So it could be used for EMH and special events.

[DizneyFreak2002]

Just thinking about this a little.....Starting to get a bit leery about the whole "plan"....

This will make EMH a bit "interesting"...Now that everyone can stay in the park during EMH, will all the open attractions have RFID readers so they can tell who is eligible and who is not. But, what of those who opt-out of using the MagicBands? Will they now be turned away? Highly unlikely, but who knows at this point?

Also, for the 'hard ticketed' parties...Will they be able to put your reservation on the MagicBand so that you would not need the separate hard ticket? If so, the same question comes up - Do you NEED a MagicBand to enter, or will the 'hard ticket' still be issued? I expect that, at least in the early going, it will be a separate 'hard ticket' only.

Not a fan of setting up FastPass+ (FP+) 60 days out. Who knows exactly which park you are going to visit 60 days prior to arrival? And allowing only 3 FP+ reservations per day, for a single park....What happens if you do not have a device that can run MyDisneyExperience with you and you forget your FP+ return times (since you scheduled them 60 days prior)? Also, not knowing if you could get more FastPasses in the park of choice for that day, or for another park, if you park hop, is disconcerting at best.

I, honestly, never had a problem with the KTTW cards - easy to just put in your pocket to carry around. It should not have been any problem to incorporate RFID chips into the card itself and forgo the hassles of making sure you wear your MagicBand every time you leave your room. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it!!"

Sorry for the rant...I got a bit carried away!! :D

Can't tell you about much, didn't learn anything new that we didn't already know (and no, i still don't like this).. But regarding EMH, if certain plan goes through, EMH will be a thing of the past... Not sure if that has been decided on or not yet...

As for special events, again, nothing.. wish I could help you more... Oh and the more I read around and talk to people, the more I hear that no one likes this idea at all... Even the most hyped up on pixie dust fan... CM's even hate it... From some accounts, it has been a disaster... I'm sure there are CM's who will spew the company line (for fear of losing their jobs maybe) but talk to them off the record, they hate it...

Congrats! Almost $2.0 billion spent on something that was not needed... Welcome to WDW 2013... Yea, don't fix the parks, especially DHS...

[yankeesfan123]

This is horrid, bye bye fun vacation, hello spreadsheet planned to the minute vacation. This is a very bad idea, this will make it harder and harder to do anything spontaneous at Disney and quite honestly, if it gets out of hand, might make us rethink our trips and whether they are worth going or not.

I'm not planning out every single second of my vacation like disney wants me to, they can shove it.

I don't think I'd have a huge problem if the reservation window for FP+ was 24 or 48 hours. But 60 days is way too many days. Park hours might change, weather is unknown... tough to plan that precisely 60 days in advance.

[BrerGnat]

I don't think I'd have a huge problem if the reservation window for FP+ was 24 or 48 hours. But 60 days is way too many days. Park hours might change, weather is unknown... tough to plan that precisely 60 days in advance.

I agree that 60 days ahead is overkill. However, Disney has acknowledged this, and stated specifically that you will be able to change your FP+ reservations around up to and including the day of. So, I'll hold on my judgment until we find out that this is NOT the case.

[doodleboy]

I agree that 60 days ahead is overkill. However, Disney has acknowledged this, and stated specifically that you will be able to change your FP+ reservations around up to and including the day of. So, I'll hold on my judgment until we find out that this is NOT the case.

We can modify our ADRs up to the day of too, but have you tried to get a reservation anywhere decent on the day of let alone 60 days in advance lately? How many FPs will be left for TSM or Soarin' the day of or minutes after they are available for that fact? My fear is that I will have to plan my vacation to the minute months in advance and people will hoard FPs the same way they hoard ADRs now. If you will be allowed 3 FPs per park per day as another poster had mentioned, what is to keep people from just reserving 3 in each park everyday of their trip?.

[BrerGnat]

If you will be allowed 3 FPs per park per day as another poster had mentioned, what is to keep people from just reserving 3 in each park everyday of their trip?.

No, it's 3 FP in ONE park, per day. You have to pick a park, and all three of your attractions have to be in that park. So, if you park hop, you'll have to either do standby lines, or use the regular FP system when you go to the second park of the day.

To answer your other question, we never plan ahead or make ADRs anymore. We go on the Disney mobile dining site and find what's available and book a few hours ahead. Never have a problem (and our last two trips were over Easter week and the week before Christmas). We always get to eat where we want.

My DH and son were able to ride Toy Story Mania twice on our last trip. We arrived at the park at opening, and the standby line was 20 min, so they waited and rode twice in an hour. We have a GAC, but they didn't even use it because it wouldn't have saved any time over the standby line.

[caryrae]

Got an update on my iPhone yesterday for the My Disney Experience app, and one of the updates says "updates to support new experiences coming soon to Walt Disney World".

[Stu29573]

No, it's 3 FP in ONE park, per day. You have to pick a park, and all three of your attractions have to be in that park. So, if you park hop, you'll have to either do standby lines, or use the regular FP system when you go to the second park of the day.

To answer your other question, we never plan ahead or make ADRs anymore. We go on the Disney mobile dining site and find what's available and book a few hours ahead. Never have a problem (and our last two trips were over Easter week and the week before Christmas). We always get to eat where we want.

My DH and son were able to ride Toy Story Mania twice on our last trip. We arrived at the park at opening, and the standby line was 20 min, so they waited and rode twice in an hour. We have a GAC, but they didn't even use it because it wouldn't have saved any time over the standby line.

So....you're basically saying the whole program is unnecessary? Hmmmm, great use of a couple of billion!

[ChipNDale79]

I agree that 60 days ahead is overkill. However, Disney has acknowledged this, and stated specifically that you will be able to change your FP+ reservations around up to and including the day of. So, I'll hold on my judgment until we find out that this is NOT the case.

What happens when a fast pass+ for a popular ride is gone? Like for Toy Story?

There are some popular restaurants that if you don't reserve far in advance, you can't get in. I'm afraid that's going to happen with FP+ with attractions.

That's a major concern for me.

[DizneyFreak2002]

So....you're basically saying the whole program is unnecessary? Hmmmm, great use of a couple of billion!

Who has been saying that since this was first reported? I wonder if his initials are DF? :)

[DizneyFreak2002]

What happens when a fast pass+ for a popular ride is gone? Like for Toy Story?

There are some popular restaurants that if you don't reserve far in advance, you can't get in. I'm afraid that's going to happen with FP+ with attractions.

That's a major concern for me.

Shouldn't be your only concern, nor a major concern... other aspects of this should be more of a concern and something that should down right scare and infuriate a parent of a child...

[Stu29573]

Who has been saying that since this was first reported? I wonder if his initials are DF? :)

Yeah, I just thought it was interesting that an apologist made the same argument.... Go figure!

[ChipNDale79]

Shouldn't be your only concern, nor a major concern... other aspects of this should be more of a concern and something that should down right scare and infuriate a parent of a child...

There are things I like about the system, but here's one that disney should be publicizing. If children are required to wear a wristband also, then im sure this wristband can be loaded with the parents contact information. So if the child and parent get separated, a CM will be able to get a hold of the parent quickly.

As a parent to two young boys, I love that and some of the other aspects of it, I hate the FP+ part of this thing. It's a horrible idea.

[BrerGnat]

Don't put words in my mouth. I never said MyMagic+ is unnecessary. I said the Fastpass part won't particularly be useful for MY family, at this time. The CURRENT Fast Pass system isn't of much use to us now either, but I still think Fast Pass in general is a great system. I am a fan. I am ALSO a fan of what I've heard about MyMagic+ so far (all of it's aspects).

As a parent of two young kids, there is nothing about this system that worries me. I couldn't care less if my kid's names and DOB are known to CMs. Big deal. It's not secret information. I think it can be a great way to make interactions more personal. I don't have a crippling fear of other adults talking to my kids and addressing them by name in my presence.

The ADR system as is is stupid. 180 days? Ridiculous. It should go to 60 days as well. I admit, I've never eaten in the castle or Le Cellier, but not because I couldn't, I just don't want to. The hype around certain WDW restaurants just evades me entirely. :confused:

I admit to being a person who is fascinated by tech and gadgets. The whole idea of this system intrigues me and I can't wait to utilize it.

[Stu29573]

Don't put words in my mouth. I never said MyMagic+ is unnecessary. I said the Fastpass part won't particularly be useful for MY family, at this time. The CURRENT Fast Pass system isn't of much use to us now either, but I still think Fast Pass in general is a great system. I am a fan. I am ALSO a fan of what I've heard about MyMagic+ so far (all of it's aspects).

As a parent of two young kids, there is nothing about this system that worries me. I couldn't care less if my kid's names and DOB are known to CMs. Big deal. It's not secret information. I think it can be a great way to make interactions more personal. I don't have a crippling fear of other adults talking to my kids and addressing them by name in my presence.

The ADR system as is is stupid. 180 days? Ridiculous. It should go to 60 days as well. I admit, I've never eaten in the castle or Le Cellier, but not because I couldn't, I just don't want to. The hype around certain WDW restaurants just evades me entirely. :confused:

I admit to being a person who is fascinated by tech and gadgets. The whole idea of this system intrigues me and I can't wait to utilize it.

Just a little ribbing , Natalie, no offense meant. :)

[BrerGnat]

Just a little ribbing , Natalie, no offense meant. :)

No offense taken! I just wanted my position on this to be clear. :D

[MOJoe]

O.K. After reading nearly all the posts on this topic, i have a question.
INTERCOT represents some of the most informed, most experienced, and best prepared WDW guests anywhere. And i think we all can agree that having a basic plan is essential to a happy Disney trip.
But virtually no one here is interested in scheduling Fast Passes in advance. What gives? If people like us are unwilling, who is going to do this?
Unless it is the Mouse himself.

Is this the beginning of Disney preplanning trips for those who refuse to plan for themselves?

[TinkerbellT421]

O.K. After reading nearly all the posts on this topic, i have a question.
INTERCOT represents some of the most informed, most experienced, and best prepared WDW guests anywhere. And i think we all can agree that having a basic plan is essential to a happy Disney trip.
But virtually no one here is interested in scheduling Fast Passes in advance. What gives? If people like us are unwilling, who is going to do this?
Unless it is the Mouse himself.

Is this the beginning of Disney preplanning trips for those who refuse to plan for themselves?

Don't be surprised of how many pre-planner/over the top planners there are. I have met several on my trips. The most people I think that will take advantage of this, are not only the majority of pre-planners, but also A LOT of one timers or few timers, the ones that go once every ten years, if that. Do I think that's the majority of vacations there? Not necessarily. But they will be pushing this a lot to the once timer, first timer and few timers. They will be the ones that think they NEED this because it's the ONLY way, because they do not know any better. There are so many people that never even knew or understood the old fast pass system, never mind this system, so I am sure they will be convinced by Disney themselves that this is need in order to experience Disney to it's fullest. The regulars? Not so much. But, that's all personal opinion.

We barely utilize the fast pass system now, never mind planning 60 days in advance. I can guarantee that is never going to happen for us. The day before? Maybe, that might be cool. A week? Not a chance never mind 60 days. But, I am going to try to reserve judgement on it as a whole until I experience. Right now, what's known (which is very little to me), for fact or experience isn't enough for me to say never or that I hate it entirely. There's aspects I dislike and will not utilize, but until I see it, and physically experience it and see how, where, why when and how, I am going to wait and see. But, again, what's known, I do not care for it too much.

[DizneyFreak2002]

There are things I like about the system, but here's one that disney should be publicizing. If children are required to wear a wristband also, then im sure this wristband can be loaded with the parents contact information. So if the child and parent get separated, a CM will be able to get a hold of the parent quickly.

As a parent to two young boys, I love that and some of the other aspects of it, I hate the FP+ part of this thing. It's a horrible idea.

While that part of it could be a great thing, believe me, there are many issues with a child's information being available to any CM who has an ipad handy... and THAT should scare any parent... Just because it is Disney doesn't mean everything is safe and kosher...

[DizneyFreak2002]

As a parent of two young kids, there is nothing about this system that worries me. I couldn't care less if my kid's names and DOB are known to CMs. Big deal. It's not secret information. I think it can be a great way to make interactions more personal. I don't have a crippling fear of other adults talking to my kids and addressing them by name in my presence.


How would you feel if a complete stranger had access to yours kids' DOB and name? And that stranger approached your child, called him/her by his/her name? Kind of creepy, isn't it?

And that doesn't bother you as a parent?

[Janmac]

How would you feel if a complete stranger had access to yours kids' DOB and name? And that stranger approached your child, called him/her by his/her name? Kind of creepy, isn't it?

And that doesn't bother you as a parent?

Happens all the time at schools. The amount of personal information that is stored in a school is more than what we're talking about for WDW, because schools have SSN, immunization records, and in some cases, specialized test results. I don't have a lot of warm and fuzzy feelings about the security of the info stored at the school in the district we live in.

If I could make FPs for Toy Story, ToT and RnRC before I got to the park, I would. Same with Soarin'.

Jan

[Figment!]

The NY Times recently did an article including the child and general privacy implications of the new system a few days ago.

It highlights that putting personal information on a Child's MagicBand will be "opt-in", so it will be the parent's choice as to how much info to place on the band. Guests will also control how much information to put on their own band.

The only potential privacy aspect that a parent would not appear to control is Operations tracking a child via check-in points through-out the park. The same would apply to tracking their own use of the park.

Here are the relevant excerpts from the article with the key privacy issues highlighted:




At Disney Parks, a Bracelet Meant to Build Loyalty (and Sales)

By BROOKS BARNES
January 7, 2013

...

Disney is aware of potential privacy concerns, especially regarding children. The plan, which comes as the federal government is trying to strengthen online privacy protections, could be troublesome for a company that some consumers worry is already too controlling.

...

MagicBands can also be encoded with all sorts of personal details, allowing for more personalized interaction with Disney employees. Before, the employee playing Cinderella could say hello only in a general way. Now — if parents opt in — hidden sensors will read MagicBand data, providing information needed for a personalized greeting: “Hi, Angie,” the character might say without prompting. “I understand it’s your birthday.”

The data will also be used to make waiting areas for rides (“scene ones” in Disney parlance) less of a drag. A new Magic Kingdom ride called Under the Sea, for instance, features a robotic version of Scuttle the sea gull from “The Little Mermaid” that will be able to chitchat with MagicBand wearers.

“We want to take experiences that are more passive and make them as interactive as possible — moving from, ‘Cool, look at that talking bird,’ to ‘Wow, amazing, that bird is talking directly to me,’ ” said Bruce Vaughn, chief creative executive for Walt Disney Imagineering.

Guests will not be forced to use the MagicBand system, and people who do try it will decide how much information to share. An online options menu, for instance, will offer various controls: Do you want park employees to know your name? Do you want Disney to send you special offers when you get home? What about during your stay?

“I may walk in and feel good about giving information about myself and my wife, but maybe we don’t want to give much about the children,” Mr. Staggs said. Still, once using the MagicBand, even if selecting the most restrictive settings, Disney sensors will gather general information about how the visitor uses the park.

...

[BrerGnat]

How would you feel if a complete stranger had access to yours kids' DOB and name? And that stranger approached your child, called him/her by his/her name? Kind of creepy, isn't it?

And that doesn't bother you as a parent?

Not at all.

I assume you don't have kids. Am I right?

Honestly, my kids have had "strangers" coming up to them and calling them by name and then taking their hand and walking into a room with them, and proceeded to "evaluate" them from the time they were 14 months old. They both have Autism. WIth that comes a LOT of therapy, evaluations, appointments, etc. and meeting MANY strangers. All of these "strangers" have met my kids after obtaining a LOT of information about them prior to. I have provided all this information, to include their likes and dislikes, favorite movies, toys, foods, etc. I had to put my trust in these people that they were going to use the information I provided to help my children. I would say, some of their therapists knew them better than my parents did. Truth.

Now they are in elementary school. There are HUGE files on each of my kids, and in these files are a whole lot of information about our entire family. I have to trust that it's "secure" in the file cabinets at school, which is ridiculous to imagine. This information could be stolen QUITE easily. But, again, I really don't worry about it at all.

I think our society is sort of backwards when we worry obsessively about people saying "hello" to our children. Our main goal as parents of kids with Autism is to make them more sociable. It actually sort of bothers me that, while we are trying to teach them to say 'hello' and 'goodbye' when they see people, society as a whole seems to be doing quite the opposite. Makes me feel like my "anti social" kids are more normal than not...

So no, I have no qualms about the type of information that I can choose to share about my kids with Disney. If we could walk up to Lightning McQueen and he addressed my son by name? Priceless.

[Granny Jill A]

What's next with Disney? Preplanned vacations where you have an itinerary and that's it?

[ChipNDale79]

What's next with Disney? Preplanned vacations where you have an itinerary and that's it?


Preplanned and fastpassed bathroom breaks!

[Stu29573]

You know, maybe DIsney will provide us all with individualized tour guides. That way, our trip will be totally planned to the minute and it will be seen as a good thing!:thumbsup:

[Mendelson]

Agree with some others - couldn't care less about my kid's information being out there. I have a 2yo (and a grown child, fwiw) and nothing about his information being available to anyone at WDW bothers me. I signed up for the experience, after all, and I can't even begin to imagine the scary-movie scenario in which an evil plot is hatched involving my child based on knowing he was born on 10/8/10. (See, I just shared it with all of you, even.)

So long as my assumption that he will be in the presence of me or his mother for our entire trip is correct, no problems at all.

Any benefit from a guest-experience perspective far outweighs any negatives (which again, I view as none).

[Jeri]

How would you feel if a complete stranger had access to yours kids' DOB and name? And that stranger approached your child, called him/her by his/her name? Kind of creepy, isn't it?

And that doesn't bother you as a parent?

Maybe I am wrong here, but it seems like you are trying to almost scare parents.
If I am at Disney and a complete stranger comes up and calls my child by name I would assume that I would be with my child. When I am at Disney, my child isn't out of my husband or my sight, in fact we are right with them all the time. So if a stranger ( I am assuming a Disney castmember) came up and called my child by their name, I would not be upset.

I have to agree with Natalie too, I also have a 15 yr old with Aspergers we have worked for years on social interaction. Also I have a Daughter with Down syndrome, and I have strangers come up often to say Hi, talk to her, tell me she is cute, and yes, they ask her name & how old she is, sometimes when she was born, and I tell them.

I think there is no reason to get our undies in a bunch over this since it is clearly an opt in option. Don't like it, not comfortable with it?? No problem don't do it!

[DizneyFreak2002]

Happens all the time at schools. The amount of personal information that is stored in a school is more than what we're talking about for WDW, because schools have SSN, immunization records, and in some cases, specialized test results. I don't have a lot of warm and fuzzy feelings about the security of the info stored at the school in the district we live in.

If I could make FPs for Toy Story, ToT and RnRC before I got to the park, I would. Same with Soarin'.

Jan

So, bring it up at a Board meeting, or PTA meeting... It is your right, as a parent, to question the integrity of the information you have to provide for your child's safety and care while in school... There is absolutely no reason for Disney to need any information about your child.. None...

But hey, if you want to compromise your child's information for FPs to rides, that is an issue you need to take up with yourself... No ride is worth my child's information being available to Cms who have no business knowing my kid's name, age, or any other information

[DizneyFreak2002]

Not at all.

I assume you don't have kids. Am I right?

Honestly, my kids have had "strangers" coming up to them and calling them by name and then taking their hand and walking into a room with them, and proceeded to "evaluate" them from the time they were 14 months old. They both have Autism. WIth that comes a LOT of therapy, evaluations, appointments, etc. and meeting MANY strangers. All of these "strangers" have met my kids after obtaining a LOT of information about them prior to. I have provided all this information, to include their likes and dislikes, favorite movies, toys, foods, etc. I had to put my trust in these people that they were going to use the information I provided to help my children. I would say, some of their therapists knew them better than my parents did. Truth.

Now they are in elementary school. There are HUGE files on each of my kids, and in these files are a whole lot of information about our entire family. I have to trust that it's "secure" in the file cabinets at school, which is ridiculous to imagine. This information could be stolen QUITE easily. But, again, I really don't worry about it at all.

I think our society is sort of backwards when we worry obsessively about people saying "hello" to our children. Our main goal as parents of kids with Autism is to make them more sociable. It actually sort of bothers me that, while we are trying to teach them to say 'hello' and 'goodbye' when they see people, society as a whole seems to be doing quite the opposite. Makes me feel like my "anti social" kids are more normal than not...

So no, I have no qualms about the type of information that I can choose to share about my kids with Disney. If we could walk up to Lightning McQueen and he addressed my son by name? Priceless.

You are right, I don't have kids... What is your point? You want strangers to have access to your children, again, that is your issue... If I had kids, I sure wouldn't want stranger having access to their information... And if a stranger did approach me and my child and knew his/her name, age, location, and anything else Disney wants to collect, you bet I would find it creepy...

Don't know the age of your child/children, but let me ask you this since you have no issues with strangers having your child's information... How would you feel if, say, your 12 year old daughter gave her information to a 40 year old man on the internet? Still feel ok?

Oh and I'm not talking about a simple hello... I'm talking knowing his/her name, age, location, favorite color, etc... And tracking their every move, knowing where they are at ALL times on WDW property... Huge difference than, "hello"...

Same goes here.. you are giving strangers (some with not so pure thoughts) access and information to your children... You think Disney is immune to issues?

[DizneyFreak2002]

Maybe I am wrong here, but it seems like you are trying to almost scare parents.
If I am at Disney and a complete stranger comes up and calls my child by name I would assume that I would be with my child. When I am at Disney, my child isn't out of my husband or my sight, in fact we are right with them all the time. So if a stranger ( I am assuming a Disney castmember) came up and called my child by their name, I would not be upset.

I have to agree with Natalie too, I also have a 15 yr old with Aspergers we have worked for years on social interaction. Also I have a Daughter with Down syndrome, and I have strangers come up often to say Hi, talk to her, tell me she is cute, and yes, they ask her name & how old she is, sometimes when she was born, and I tell them.

I think there is no reason to get our undies in a bunch over this since it is clearly an opt in option. Don't like it, not comfortable with it?? No problem don't do it!

Nope, not trying to scare people at all.. Trying to educate them on the realities of this system Disney is implementing... Not the pixie dusted OH THIS IS SUCH A GOOD THING that Disney spews... There are real concerns that parents should have about this system... I'm sorry, and no offense, but any normal parent would want to protect their kids.. And I would think, part of that protection is making sure strangers have NO access to your child nor your child's information... Do you think, just because you are with your child, something bad couldn't happen? Then what do you do if, god forbid, something did? Why react? Why not be proactive? Prevent it before it occurs...

Great, people teach their kids not to talk to strangers... but hey, that CM is a stranger who knows all your child's information... Isn't there something not right with all of that?

I, for one, would NEVER let Disney have access to my child's information

I wonder... how many Disney fans would be in an uproar if Universal implemented such a system first? Yea.... Hmmm....

[DizneyFreak2002]

At Disney Parks, a Bracelet Meant to Build Loyalty (and Sales)

By BROOKS BARNES
January 7, 2013

...

Disney is aware of potential privacy concerns, especially regarding children. The plan, which comes as the federal government is trying to strengthen online privacy protections, could be troublesome for a company that some consumers worry is already too controlling.

...

MagicBands can also be encoded with all sorts of personal details, allowing for more personalized interaction with Disney employees. Before, the employee playing Cinderella could say hello only in a general way. Now — if parents opt in — hidden sensors will read MagicBand data, providing information needed for a personalized greeting: “Hi, Angie,” the character might say without prompting. “I understand it’s your birthday.”

The data will also be used to make waiting areas for rides (“scene ones” in Disney parlance) less of a drag. A new Magic Kingdom ride called Under the Sea, for instance, features a robotic version of Scuttle the sea gull from “The Little Mermaid” that will be able to chitchat with MagicBand wearers.

“We want to take experiences that are more passive and make them as interactive as possible — moving from, ‘Cool, look at that talking bird,’ to ‘Wow, amazing, that bird is talking directly to me,’ ” said Bruce Vaughn, chief creative executive for Walt Disney Imagineering.

Guests will not be forced to use the MagicBand system, and people who do try it will decide how much information to share. An online options menu, for instance, will offer various controls: Do you want park employees to know your name? Do you want Disney to send you special offers when you get home? What about during your stay?

“I may walk in and feel good about giving information about myself and my wife, but maybe we don’t want to give much about the children,” Mr. Staggs said. Still, once using the MagicBand,even if selecting the most restrictive settings, Disney sensors will gather general information about how the visitor uses the park.

...

Let's make sure we present both sides of this... Sure, you do not have to opt in... But explain to Little Jimmy why Mickey knew the other child's name and not his... Explain why now you are waiting on 2 hour lines for Haunted Mansion and not skipping like everyone else... Opting out = less of a magical experience... So, what is Disney really trying to do here? Force you to opt in therefore giving them access to information they should NOT have access to.. all in the name of "MAGIC"...

[doodleboy]

You know, maybe DIsney will provide us all with individualized tour guides. That way, our trip will be totally planned to the minute and it will be seen as a good thing!:thumbsup:

This service already exists. And they are like having your own personal FP as they get you to the front of the line for all attarctions as well. I don't know what the cost is though.

[BrerGnat]

There is a huge difference in a 12 year old girl giving a 40 year old man identifying and private information online compared to Disney CMs knowing a child's first name and birth date. Come on.

For full disclosure, my boys are 6 and 8. I am very protective of them only insofar as they lack the understanding of the world to have "street smarts." However, in my presence, at a Disney THEME PARK, I can imagine NO scenario that could possibly play out with the use of MyMagic+ that would end up in tragedy. None. That kind of paranoia is not what I'm all about, and the fear mongering with regards to this is laughable to me.

Anyone who does not yet have children can not give an informed opinion on this particular topic. Like the saying goes, "The best parenting advice always comes from those who have no children."

[Stu29573]

This service already exists. And they are like having your own personal FP as they get you to the front of the line for all attarctions as well. I don't know what the cost is though.

I know, but I meant for free!

[DizneyFreak2002]

There is a huge difference in a 12 year old girl giving a 40 year old man identifying and private information online compared to Disney CMs knowing a child's first name and birth date. Come on.

For full disclosure, my boys are 6 and 8. I am very protective of them only insofar as they lack the understanding of the world to have "street smarts." However, in my presence, at a Disney THEME PARK, I can imagine NO scenario that could possibly play out with the use of MyMagic+ that would end up in tragedy. None. That kind of paranoia is not what I'm all about, and the fear mongering with regards to this is laughable to me.

Anyone who does not yet have children can not give an informed opinion on this particular topic. Like the saying goes, "The best parenting advice always comes from those who have no children."

Really Nat? I can't give an informed opinion? I guess then I must have to go tell off my parents... Since, you know, I learned from them about raising children... And well, i guess they did a pretty poor job since they did everything in their power to protect me, INCLUDING making sure no stranger had access to me or my information, INCLUDING Disney cast members, while I was a kid...

And yea, I guess absolutely NOTHING can ever go wrong in a Disney theme park... Yep, kids aren't preyed on in WDW... Nope, never.. peeping toms are never caught there... Nope... WDW has a shield around it where all the vile humans can never enter (or work for)...

It is laughable until something happens... Then, how fast would you change your tune? or maybe you won't cause IT'S DISNEY!!!!!

[caryrae]

WOW, some really strong opinions on this subject.

[buzznwoodysmom]

WOW, some really strong opinions on this subject.

Agreed!!!

I have to say, having two kids of my own, I agree with Natalie. While I am a protective mom, I am not to the point of paranoia. I have zero issues with my kids wearing these bands, or with Disney CMs having access to their first names and DOB via the bands. The only issue I am having with this is that I, myself, hate wearing these kinds of things. As long as I can attach it to my bag strap I will be fine!

Does anyone have any idea when this rolls out? I am going to be there in less than 4 weeks now, and call me a crazy planner but I would love to be able to get Toy Story Mania FPs before we leave! LOL!!

[Janmac]

So, bring it up at a Board meeting, or PTA meeting... It is your right, as a parent, to question the integrity of the information you have to provide for your child's safety and care while in school..

My kids are in their late 40s to mid 50s. Grandkids are from 20 to 32. I'm thoroughly familiar with my rights as a parent regarding schools, integrity of information, school budgets, and yes, strangers in school. Even teachers who are personal family friends can harm their students. Just speaking from personal experience.



... If I had kids, I sure wouldn't want stranger having access to their information... And if a stranger did approach me and my child and knew his/her name, age, location, and anything else Disney wants to collect, you bet I would find it creepy...
Hopefully any future kids of yours will not need to seek medical treatment or be evaluated for special needs because then you're going to be dealing with strangers.


Nope, not trying to scare people at all.. Trying to educate them on the realities of this system Disney is implementing... I would think, part of that protection is making sure strangers have NO access to your child nor your child's information ....

Perhaps the parents posting here are trying to educate people on realities of raising kids today. There is no way to prevent our kids from interacting with strangers. We can limit interaction to the best of our informed abilities.

I suspect that the kids of the parents on this board will fare better at Disney than any of the foster kids I have taken care of fared with their own parents.

Jan

[Janmac]

Does anyone have any idea when this rolls out? I am going to be there in less than 4 weeks now, and call me a crazy planner but I would love to be able to get Toy Story Mania FPs before we leave! LOL!!

:ditto:

Jan

[DizneyFreak2002]

My kids are in their late 40s to mid 50s. Grand kids are from 20 to 32. I'm thoroughly familiar with my rights as a parent regarding schools, integrity of information, school budgets, and yes, strangers in school. Even teachers who are personal family friends can harm their students. Just speaking from personal experience.

Then nothing for you to be concerned about regarding a little child in your family having their information in the hands of a stranger... Since your kids and grand kids are grown up, then they are responsible for their own protection...



Hopefully any future kids of yours will not need to seek medical treatment or be evaluated for special needs because then you're going to be dealing with strangers.Difference... if that were to be the case, then I have no problem with a "stranger" having access to my child... Why? Well, 1) this person is there to HELP my child, 2) they are technically a person of authority, 3) any doctor/specialist appoint they have, I will be there, 4) I can evaluate and meet the person who will be caring for my child before hand, 5) they are not some random college kid, retiree, or otherwise employed person in a theme park who should NEVER have access to any child's information... EVER...



Perhaps the parents posting here are trying to educate people on realities of raising kids today. There is no way to prevent our kids from interacting with strangers. We can limit interaction to the best of our informed abilities. So, again, people who don't have kids have no idea about what a parent should be concerned about? Hey, if you aren't concerned about your child's safety, that is your business... but, me? Well, my child's safety will be important to me... And I would do everything in my power to make sure no stranger has access to my child or his/her information... including WDW CMs...



I suspect that the kids of the parents on this board will fare better at Disney than any of the foster kids I have taken care of fared with their own parents.

JanBad correlation.. But when there is no defense of a system that invades on the privacy of a child, that is to be expected...

So, I contacted a few friends who are parents, since apparently, I shouldn't be talking about this because I don't have a kid and I don't know (funny, I laugh at that all the time, especially when this comes from Disney fans who love Disney so much, they have no clue about it at all)...

Anyway, I asked each one a few simple questions... Seems I do know what parents really think about today... Funny that, since I, you know, really don't have any idea... Apparently, parents DO care about strangers having access to their child's information... Apparently, parents DO find it creepy that a stranger could approach your child already knowing his/her name... And apparently, parents DO go out of their way to protect their children... And to think, i was beginning to wonder that I was wrong... Since, well, some parents here apparently don't care that the information of their little child will be in the hands of, potentially, 60,000 strangers... And we wonder why some people have CC info and identities stolen?

Oh, and when I told them about this new program, want to know what they all said? take a guess... and no, it isn't "WELL IT IS DISNEY SO IT IS OK".... Not one of them were happy about it, and have reconsidered ever visiting WDW in the future...

[Patricia]

This isn't a parenting forum. So let's cool it!

Nuf said. Time to get back to the topic or move on to another one..

[Jeri]

I hope those that are going soon and in the future (next few months) report back how it went and more real, actual details about what they experienced.

Like I said I am waiting to see what it is all really about, and experience myself before I make a decision if I like it or not.

I hope that we are able to maybe have the wristbands and still not do the checking in ahead of time.
I kind of like checking in when I get there.:blush: I like talking to the castmember and all that stuff. Plus this time we have 2 rooms, and my cousin is coming ( his own ressie, but noted he is with us) and was planning on standing in line & checking in together.

[redunzl5]

I totally agree with DizneyFreak2002. Poor old Walt is probably spinning in his grave. His parks were supposed to be for families to enjoy. Now, unless you have totally planned to the nth degree months ahead of time, you are left out in the cold.
Have an apple dearie.

[Goofster]

When are the MagicBands supposed to be rolled out? We are going the 1st week of March and staying at Kidani Village. Curious to know whether I should expect these or not.

[tinkerbell1981]

There were excruciatingly long standby lines long before the advent of Fastpass -- and Fastpass+. For many people, their most vivod memories of visiting Walt Disney World are from waiting in line. It's nostalgic for some folks. It seems like these days, people ignore the fact that Space Mountain has had a 90-minute long line for decades.

You didn't miss Toy Story Mania because you couldn't get a Fastpass. You didn't ride because you balked at the wait time.

YES!!!!!! I think the waiting in the lines and looking at all the detail that Disney puts in is part of the Disney experience. I do like to do fastpass when trying to get on something quick but I am willing to wait 60min to ride any ride because that is the experience!

[Sylvia]

Am I the only one out here who misses the days of just going to the parks and doing everything on the fly? Or am I just wierd?

Maybe it's because I am a several times repeat guest. I will occassionally do a FP, I rarely make an ADR, and I had no problem with the way things were.

:scratch:

Call me weird too!! I do some planning, but I never over-plan. One of the best vacations I've ever had was the one where we decided to go to our CBR bus stop each day and let Disney transport plan our day. We took the first bus that came. Amazingly, we did this four days in a row, and each day a different theme bus came along.

We have never over-planned ADRs. On each trip we typically eat 2-3 TS meals. Now with so many offerings at CS locations, we've been very lucky with our choices. We concentrate on "winging it" when it comes to meals; over the years, we've also been quite lucky with walk-ups at several TS locations. But, this is much easier if you're traveling with a small group.

As you can tell by my signature, I'm a long-time repeat guest.

[marlyn]

This service already exists. And they are like having your own personal FP as they get you to the front of the line for all attarctions as well. I don't know what the cost is though.

About $125/hr or more....not a viable option for most people

[marlyn]

This isn't a parenting forum. So let's cool it!

Nuf said. Time to get back to the topic or move on to another one..

Thank you....

Ok, so if this takes effect before I go in march, where do I reserve my fast passes? Online or via my iPhone App?

[DisneyGiant]

I have two questions - in case anyone has answers :)

1. Does this wristband work with DVC?

2. What if you are two families traveling together and want to make one ADR for the combined total? Same with the FPs - you all want to go on the ride together......

We have a large group heading (20 ppl) down in July.

Would the wristbands accommodate this?

[PopPhan]

YES!!!!!! I think the waiting in the lines and looking at all the detail that Disney puts in is part of the Disney experience. I do like to do fastpass when trying to get on something quick but I am willing to wait 60min to ride any ride because that is the experience!

Maybe this is one of the reasons for all the interactive queues going in....They know that with the advent of the FastPass+ system queues will be getting a lot longer.......

I'm just glad that I never visit during "busy" times!!! For the most part, the queues are short for all but a few attractions (TSMM, Soarin', Peter Pan....)

[VWL Mom]

I have two questions - in case anyone has answers :)

1. Does this wristband work with DVC?

2. What if you are two families traveling together and want to make one ADR for the combined total? Same with the FPs - you all want to go on the ride together......

We have a large group heading (20 ppl) down in July.

Would the wristbands accommodate this?

The DVC member site has been rolled over to match the new WDW site so it is in prep for the wristbands.

You will still be able to make ADR's for 20 but I would guess you need to call as you do now.

As far as the FP's, I would think you would be allowed to get FP for those on your reservation. I've been noticing that the new site allows you to choose who in your travel party is eating on a given reservation (by checking the mickey heads) so maybe FP is going to work the same way. No idea how this will work for those not staying on-site.

[BrerGnat]

Just some more information about the implementation:

According to Tom Staggs:

The MyMagic+ system (including FP+) will be implemented SLOWLY over the "next several months." It will be in a "test and adjust" period for quite awhile, according to Staggs.

Sources have said that the system will be tested INITIALLY at the Boardwalk Inn (NOT the Villas though), due to its small size. It stands to reason that it will roll out from there, likely first to all the Deluxe resorts and DVC and then down the line to the Moderates and Values.

There is no definite timeline for this system to be fully operational at all resorts, so unless anyone is staying at Boardwalk Inn in the near future, don't expect this to be up and running quite yet.

[Janmac]

2. What if you are two families traveling together and want to make one ADR for the combined total? Same with the FPs - you all want to go on the ride together......

We have a large group heading (20 ppl) down in July.

Would the wristbands accommodate this?

Don't know about the FPs. I read somewhere that someone got two different FP times when they used FP+ for their extended family.

Regarding ADRs for 20 people, in the past when we've had a large group, we have called the group dining number for our ADRs. A CM at the regular dining number gave us the phone number.

On another issue, we have had problems with the magnetic strip on the KTTW cards so I searched around to see how sturdy are the RFID chips. Apparently there are 4 different types of chips, depending on how interactive they are. Read only passive chips have been described as costing 50 cents each altho I suppose Disney is getting a deep discount, if these are the chips they're using.

I did discover that the chip can become unreliable if it detaches from the supporting medium - which can happen if it is exposed to vibration and humidity.

Jan

[SandmanGStefani24]

I SO agree with MargaretMessler and Sylvia!!

It kills me to see people overplan and make the trip more of a job or boot camp. I wing it every trip. I have things I want to see/ride/eat, but do it whenever I get around to it, or have the opportunity. I rarely wait long in a line, I am never bored, and I always get everything done. I almost never make an ADR either. Have only done it twice, and all other times have been able to walk up and eat, even at TS foodaries. Take a chill pill and let it happen, is my advice. I might give the new system a go, but I am fine without it, and suspect many out there can too.

[ChipNDale79]

I SO agree with MargaretMessler and Sylvia!!

It kills me to see people overplan and make the trip more of a job or boot camp. I wing it every trip. I have things I want to see/ride/eat, but do it whenever I get around to it, or have the opportunity. I rarely wait long in a line, I am never bored, and I always get everything done. I almost never make an ADR either. Have only done it twice, and all other times have been able to walk up and eat, even at TS foodaries. Take a chill pill and let it happen, is my advice. I might give the new system a go, but I am fine without it, and suspect many out there can too.

I've actually been denied eating at a place because I didn't have a reservation, so it does happen.

[Roger's #1 Fan]

I SO agree with MargaretMessler and Sylvia!!

It kills me to see people overplan and make the trip more of a job or boot camp. I wing it every trip. I have things I want to see/ride/eat, but do it whenever I get around to it, or have the opportunity. I rarely wait long in a line, I am never bored, and I always get everything done. I almost never make an ADR either. Have only done it twice, and all other times have been able to walk up and eat, even at TS foodaries. Take a chill pill and let it happen, is my advice. I might give the new system a go, but I am fine without it, and suspect many out there can too.

Looking at your 4 most recent visit dates, I can understand why these programs have little appeal or effect on your visit. For many of us who have to travel during the summer during peak or near-peak times, things like ADRs are a necessity if you want to eat at a TS at a decent hour. As far as FP goes, I found on my last trip (Aug 12) they helped avoid what would easily have been several hours in standby lines for a few rides which gave us the opportunity to visit some of the less popular attractions. (TR, COP, TTA)

[SandmanGStefani24]

Looking at your 4 most recent visit dates, I can understand why these programs have little appeal or effect on your visit. For many of us who have to travel during the summer during peak or near-peak times, things like ADRs are a necessity if you want to eat at a TS at a decent hour. As far as FP goes, I found on my last trip (Aug 12) they helped avoid what would easily have been several hours in standby lines for a few rides which gave us the opportunity to visit some of the less popular attractions. (TR, COP, TTA)

sure, but i have sworn off peak times for good. nothing about the heat, crowds, or lines is in any way appealing to me. i get it, i do. it's just the OVERplanning that makes me shake my head. Everyone has their way that works, and that's cool. :pepe:

[jonahbear2006]

Ok, I feel like people are being a little over dramatic about this. I did initially realize the problem here with fast passes but realize that even as guests who attend regularly, Disney still knows their stuff about their parks. We have always gotten our panties in a ruffle over changes, in the past, and it rarely comes of anything that is worth getting upset over.. I was there for marathon weekend and I thought the new systems were a lot faster. There were no lines ever on the resort side, while us with our passholders were fighting to get through the line with the locals and the off property guests. I think Disney knows a thing or two about all of this and if the fast passes become a huge problem, they will fix the issue, just like they did with ADRs and I remember us getting upset about online reservation systems...well last week I got walked in to every restaurant I ate at, INCLUDING BE OUR GUEST. It was one of the most magical trips ever! I love Disney so Im gonna give them a little faith and trust in exchange for a little bit of pixie dust.

[DisneyGiant]

The DVC member site has been rolled over to match the new WDW site so it is in prep for the wristbands.

You will still be able to make ADR's for 20 but I would guess you need to call as you do now.

As far as the FP's, I would think you would be allowed to get FP for those on your reservation. I've been noticing that the new site allows you to choose who in your travel party is eating on a given reservation (by checking the mickey heads) so maybe FP is going to work the same way. No idea how this will work for those not staying on-site.

Thanks so much for the info.

I'm calling for dining tomorrow - I will also ask them my questions. :)

[DisneyGiant]

Don't know about the FPs. I read somewhere that someone got two different FP times when they used FP+ for their extended family.

Regarding ADRs for 20 people, in the past when we've had a large group, we have called the group dining number for our ADRs. A CM at the regular dining number gave us the phone number.

On another issue, we have had problems with the magnetic strip on the KTTW cards so I searched around to see how sturdy are the RFID chips. Apparently there are 4 different types of chips, depending on how interactive they are. Read only passive chips have been described as costing 50 cents each altho I suppose Disney is getting a deep discount, if these are the chips they're using.

I did discover that the chip can become unreliable if it detaches from the supporting medium - which can happen if it is exposed to vibration and humidity.

Jan

Thanks for the response.

Was talking with the family last night - we'd only take advantage of booking the FP for those long line attractions (Toy Story Mania, Soarin and the 3 Mountains at MK) - the rest we'll do it like we did before - looking at the wait times.

I believe that you need some spontaneity in order to experience the magic at WDW.

[doodleboy]

I've actually been denied eating at a place because I didn't have a reservation, so it does happen.

I spent a whole week eating CS because we planned the trip in short notice. Had fun overall, but it got old being told no for 7 days straight.

[jonahbear2006]

there are hidden gems like Grand Floridian Cafe. Even when it's busy it is hard to be told no there.

[CuteAsMinnie]

Ugh I am so confused!

Do we know yet if:

- Is FP going away completely (eventually)
- We'll only be able to get FP using pre-arranged FP+?
- are KTTW cards being completely replaced (where ALL guests must have the darn MagicBand)

Never had an issue with FP before, using it within the return window worked fine with us and we never make more than 2-3 ADRs during a 7-9 day trip. Will this strategy be a thing of the past?

[AndrewJackson]

Ugh I am so confused!

Do we know yet if:

- Is FP going away completely (eventually)
- We'll only be able to get FP using pre-arranged FP+?
- are KTTW cards being completely replaced (where ALL guests must have the darn MagicBand)

Never had an issue with FP before, using it within the return window worked fine with us and we never make more than 2-3 ADRs during a 7-9 day trip. Will this strategy be a thing of the past?

Right now, FastPass+ and Magic+ are optional and require the guest to opt-in. I did read on another site that if you opt-in for FastPass+, you will no longer be able to get standard FastPasses.

My guess is that it is just a matter of time before the regular FastPass system is gone.

I don't think the ADR plan will change much. My family goes when it is usually crowded because we have school age children. If we go to a restaurant that takes ADRs withou one, we don't get seated. I would imagine that if you are going during the year that is less crowded and ADRs aren't necessary for many of the restaurants, the new Magic+ system won't change that much.

[Cheshire_Girl]

:confused:
Right now, FastPass+ and Magic+ are optional and require the guest to opt-in. I did read on another site that if you opt-in for FastPass+, you will no longer be able to get standard FastPasses.

My guess is that it is just a matter of time before the regular FastPass system is gone.


I know there has been speculation as to the fate of the current FP system ever since the first rumors of the new system began to surface. Has there been any official word that says the current FP is going to go away? Am I missing something?
As a local AP, the new FP+ and MMW+ does not appeal to me. It is something I will never use. I live an hour away. Why would I pay $200+ to participate in these "programms" that are designed for tourists.
Somedays, the current FP system is the only way I get to ride anything in the parks. If that goes away-so does my AP. I'll spend my money else where,. And I know there are a lot of locals that feel the same.
Trust me, as FL resident pass holder, we don't get any perks. In fact-it seems like a lot of the changes occuring or rumored to occur are designed to tell us locals they don't want our busniness.

[DizNut42]

We were at WDW over Marathon Weekend. The new MyMagic+ was a bit of a hassle for getting into the parks as 1/3 of the turnstiles were available to folks with park passes (APs, day tickets, etc) 1/3 for the new RFIDs in the KTTW cards and 1/3 out of commission (being updated to the new RFID readers, we assume). So with only a handful of resorts participating, there were no lines to enter the parks at the RFID entry point, but it was a cattle call at the old biometric turnstiles.

They have had RFIDs in the KTTW cards for a year or so for entering the rooms. Mostly OK, but for us, three out of the four of our KTTWs would not open the room. Had to get new ones. Not a real hassle, just a minor inconvenience.

Purchases with the RFID KTTW cards were ok, not available at many places yet. PIN needed for every purchase, ok. Don't think it saves any time. Not sure what the limits on the PINs are, mine was eight numbers.

The jury is still out on the rest of the new-gen stuff until we experience it.

[doodleboy]

So as a DVC member that always purchases APs, where does that leave me? I use my AP to enter parks, not a KTTW. Will my AP be equipped with RFID, or will a get a bracelet at BCV when I check-in with my AP added to it for my stay? How will I make FT+ reservations with a room only DVC reservation?

Is Magic+ only for people that are staying on property?

[yankeesfan123]

So as a DVC member that always purchases APs, where does that leave me? I use my AP to enter parks, not a KTTW. Will my AP be equipped with RFID, or will a get a bracelet at BCV when I check-in with my AP added to it for my stay? How will I make FT+ reservations with a room only DVC reservation?

Is Magic+ only for people that are staying on property?

I have a similar concern. I typically book room only packages and purchase tickets through the Official Ticket Center. It is my understanding that these are not considered MYW tickets. So I'm still not sure if they can be "linked" to my reservation and wristband. I keep reading different answers on different websites

[DizNut42]

We are DVC with APs as well. Not sure how it will all work out either. On our trip over Marathon weekend, we just used our APs as usual, and some of the RFID stuff with the KTTW card (room access, some purchases). I would think that at some point you could add the AP to the KTTW card and then just need only that for everything. Time will tell.

[DizneyFreak2002]

Iger, Staggs, Rasulo, Franklin MacPhee, anyone else involved in this NextGen datamining of children ready to testify on Capital Hill in the future?

Ed Markey Concerned Over Disney Plan to Track Kids with Bracelets (http://thehill.com/blogs/hillicon-valley/technology/279059-markey-concerned-over-disney-plan-to-track-kids-with-bracelets)


And here is the copy of the letter to Iger....

Ed Mackey's Letter to Iger (http://markey.house.gov/sites/markey.house.gov/files/documents/Letter%20--%20Disney%20--%201-24-13.pdf)

For those who don't know, Ed Mackey was one of the authors of the 1998 COPPA law which restricts websites from collecting data on children... Someone is looking out for the kids!!!!

Maybe the concerns raised before weren't so conspiracy theory based after all...

[NJGIRL]

I don't like any of this. Setting up dining 180 days in advance just to get a table is crazy, but now you have to do it for rides, shows and parades too! You can't even stand on the sidewalk where you want without having a resevation. Your whole day has to be planned step by step and if you don't go along with this then you risk the chance of missing out on things you want to do.

We have one more trip planned this coming Oct with my youngest nephew, if it is the mess it sounds like it will be, we will be taking a break for a while after that.

What's next....having to plan you bathroom breaks 180 days in advance.:(

[Stu29573]

Iger, Staggs, Rasulo, Franklin MacPhee, anyone else involved in this NextGen datamining of children ready to testify on Capital Hill in the future?

Ed Markey Concerned Over Disney Plan to Track Kids with Bracelets (http://thehill.com/blogs/hillicon-valley/technology/279059-markey-concerned-over-disney-plan-to-track-kids-with-bracelets)


And here is the copy of the letter to Iger....

Ed Mackey's Letter to Iger (http://markey.house.gov/sites/markey.house.gov/files/documents/Letter%20--%20Disney%20--%201-24-13.pdf)

For those who don't know, Ed Mackey was one of the authors of the 1998 COPPA law which restricts websites from collecting data on children... Someone is looking out for the kids!!!!

Maybe the concerns raised before weren't so conspiracy theory based after all...

No, they weren't. One must realize that first and foremost- for better or worse, Disney is NOT "Uncle Walt" looking after his kids, but a huge inpersonal moneymaking machine. The danger of data being misused is real. Sad, but true.

On a not unrelated topic, I'm thinking that maybe any future Disney vacation taken by my family will be headed west....

[Roger's #1 Fan]

What's next....having to plan you bathroom breaks 180 days in advance.:(

That's their next innovation....MagicPants+ :unsure:

[DizneyFreak2002]

No, they weren't. One must realize that first and foremost- for better or worse, Disney is NOT "Uncle Walt" looking after his kids, but a huge inpersonal moneymaking machine. The danger of data being misused is real. Sad, but true.


Exactly, and to add to that, blindly following the mouse can lead down very dangerous roads... I cannot see how anyone can defend this... Especially when the fact that Disney will be datamining children... This is a major problem for Disney no matter how much they want to try to make it sound like it is the best thing to come to theme parks...

And if you go to DL, please post trip reports!!!

[Stu29573]

And if you go to DL, please post trip reports!!!

I will! Being in Texas one coast is about as close as the other...

[DizneyFreak2002]

I will! Being in Texas one coast is about as close as the other...

Awesome!!! I have to live vicariously through others LOL... I don't fly so there goes DL for me :)

[Stu29573]

Awesome!!! I have to live vicariously through others LOL... I don't fly so there goes DL for me :)

Yeah, NJ to CA would be a heck of a hike!

[AndrewJackson]

Iger, Staggs, Rasulo, Franklin MacPhee, anyone else involved in this NextGen datamining of children ready to testify on Capital Hill in the future?

Ed Markey Concerned Over Disney Plan to Track Kids with Bracelets (http://thehill.com/blogs/hillicon-valley/technology/279059-markey-concerned-over-disney-plan-to-track-kids-with-bracelets)


And here is the copy of the letter to Iger....

Ed Mackey's Letter to Iger (http://markey.house.gov/sites/markey.house.gov/files/documents/Letter%20--%20Disney%20--%201-24-13.pdf)

For those who don't know, Ed Mackey was one of the authors of the 1998 COPPA law which restricts websites from collecting data on children... Someone is looking out for the kids!!!!

Maybe the concerns raised before weren't so conspiracy theory based after all...

Rep. Markey is just mad because he was stuck in the 180 minute standby line for Toy Story Mania over Christmas break. :)

[doodleboy]

Yeah, NJ to CA would be a heck of a hike!

But if you have never been to DL it is so worth it. DL seems to be jammed together a little tighter, but the novelty of it all is wonderful, and CA is a fun park too. Not to mention that you can walk between the two. And the California weather is very different from Florida. Very mild most of the year with the hottest time being July-Sept. You will also find there is so much to do outside of the parks in the LA area. I lived in San Diego for many years and miss it tremendously. Very beautiful part of the country.

Sorry didn't mean to change topic, but get to DL in your lifetime if you can.

[Stu29573]

But if you have never been to DL it is so worth it. DL seems to be jammed together a little tighter, but the novelty of it all is wonderful, and CA is a fun park too. Not to mention that you can walk between the two. And the California weather is very different from Florida. Very mild most of the year with the hottest time being July-Sept. You will also find there is so much to do outside of the parks in the LA area. I lived in San Diego for many years and miss it tremendously. Very beautiful part of the country.

Sorry didn't mean to change topic, but get to DL in your lifetime if you can.
Thanks for the input! The last (and only) time I was at DL was in 1973! This would be a 40 year homecoming, lol. Anyway, I have been thinking about it a while. Now, back to whatever this thread is really about......:blush:

[DizneyFreak2002]

Thanks for the input! The last (and only) time I was at DL was in 1973! This would be a 40 year homecoming, lol. Anyway, I have been thinking about it a while. Now, back to whatever this thread is really about......:blush:

I think we were talking about the new night time show coming to WDW, wait, no, that's IOA... Maybe it was the new e-ticket opening this year, one year after tearing down one building and constructing a brand new one... Wait, no, that's in Universal... I think we were talking about the major expansion coming that includes two e-ticket rides... oh, sorry, that is Universal as well..

I got it.. We are talking about Disney's revolutionary NextGen mess where they track you, your kids, and data mine their guests!!!!

[Stu29573]

I think we were talking about the new night time show coming to WDW, wait, no, that's IOA... Maybe it was the new e-ticket opening this year, one year after tearing down one building and constructing a brand new one... Wait, no, that's in Universal... I think we were talking about the major expansion coming that includes two e-ticket rides... oh, sorry, that is Universal as well..

I got it.. We are talking about Disney's revolutionary NextGen mess where they track you, your kids, and data mine their guests!!!!
Ohhhhhhh yeahhhhhhhhhh......... Now I remember... The reason Im going west (young man).

[AndrewJackson]

And to be fair to both sides, Mr. Iger's response to Congressman Mackey...


January 28, 2013

The Honorable Edward Markey

2108 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515

Congressman Markey:

For 90 years, Disney has been synonymous with high-quality entertainment for families and children of all ages. We use creativity, innovation and technology to create memorable moments and experiences for our hundreds of millions of customers and guests. And, as you well know, Disney’s record and commitment to children’s safety and security and the protection of their privacy is exemplary. People around the world trust Disney and its products. That trust is the cornerstone of our company, and we take it very seriously.

We are offended by the ludicrous and utterly ill-informed assertion in your letter dated January 24, 2013, that we would in any way haphazardly or recklessly introduce a program that manipulates children, or wantonly puts their safety at risk.

It is truly unfortunate and extremely disappointing that you chose to publicly attack us before taking the time to review our policies and/or contact us for information, which would have obviated the need for your letter. Had you or your staff made the slightest effort, you would have found most of the answers to your questions already existed and were publicly available online at http://corporate.disney.go.com/corporate/pp.html and https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/fa...rivacy-policy/.

In the enclosed attachment, we address the questions in your letter about our new, yet-to-be launched program, MyMagic+. However, to ensure that you fully understand our practices as they pertain to children, and our commitment to our guests’ privacy, let me be clear and reiterate the basic facts.

MyMagic+ is a completely optional program that was designed with privacy controls from the outset. Disney does not use personal information to market to children under age 13, does not personalize or target advertisements to an individual child, and never shares children’s personal information with any third party for their marketing purposes. Additionally, parents have full control over their child’s participation in MyMagic+. We have transparent privacy practices, guests can control and limit the amount of information they provide to us — and how their information is used.

Further details are attached

Sincerely,
Robert A Iger

[BrerGnat]

And to be fair to both sides, Mr. Iger's response to Congressman Mackey...


January 28, 2013

The Honorable Edward Markey

2108 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515

Congressman Markey:

For 90 years, Disney has been synonymous with high-quality entertainment for families and children of all ages. We use creativity, innovation and technology to create memorable moments and experiences for our hundreds of millions of customers and guests. And, as you well know, Disney’s record and commitment to children’s safety and security and the protection of their privacy is exemplary. People around the world trust Disney and its products. That trust is the cornerstone of our company, and we take it very seriously.

We are offended by the ludicrous and utterly ill-informed assertion in your letter dated January 24, 2013, that we would in any way haphazardly or recklessly introduce a program that manipulates children, or wantonly puts their safety at risk.

It is truly unfortunate and extremely disappointing that you chose to publicly attack us before taking the time to review our policies and/or contact us for information, which would have obviated the need for your letter. Had you or your staff made the slightest effort, you would have found most of the answers to your questions already existed and were publicly available online at http://corporate.disney.go.com/corporate/pp.html and https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/fa...rivacy-policy/.

In the enclosed attachment, we address the questions in your letter about our new, yet-to-be launched program, MyMagic+. However, to ensure that you fully understand our practices as they pertain to children, and our commitment to our guests’ privacy, let me be clear and reiterate the basic facts.

MyMagic+ is a completely optional program that was designed with privacy controls from the outset. Disney does not use personal information to market to children under age 13, does not personalize or target advertisements to an individual child, and never shares children’s personal information with any third party for their marketing purposes. Additionally, parents have full control over their child’s participation in MyMagic+. We have transparent privacy practices, guests can control and limit the amount of information they provide to us — and how their information is used.

Further details are attached

Sincerely,
Robert A Iger

OH, SNAP!

I love this response. Serves Congressman Markey right for sending such a letter.

[DizneyFreak2002]

Iger came off like a child caught with his hands in the cookie jar... What are you trying to hide Mr. Iger?

Disrespectful letter to say the least... Iger should be ashamed by that letter... If the stress has gotten to him, time to go... Please, Iger, go... Go now...

Oh how I long for Michael Eisner's days as CEO (in the beginning anyway)...

[DizneyRox]

I smell an audit coming in someone's future! :D

[Stu29573]

Yeah, Iger blew it in the pr arena. A thoughtful letter explaining the protections coupled with assurances of Disney's history of dealing with families would have been much more appropriate. I can imagine Walt being really upset by the congressman, but I can NEVER see him sending a letter like that. He had much more people sense. Iger comes off as a jerk.

[CuteAsMinnie]

Yes, he sure does.

[DizneyFreak2002]

I smell an audit coming in someone's future! :D

An audit? Iger's hissy fit is a good way to get a call to testify at Capital Hill.. Geez, I'd love to see him squirming in his seat, under oath LOL...

Oh, BTW, did anyone notice he did admit that Disney will be tracking guests? Of course, he did it in corporate speak...

[caryrae]

OH, SNAP!

I love this response. Serves Congressman Markey right for sending such a letter.

I agree.

[Stu29573]

I agree.

Why was it wrong for him to express concerns? The Mouse is not God. They can and do make mistakes. Iger's response was childish and counterproductive.

[caryrae]

It's just my opinion, I didn't see anything wrong with Iger's letter.

[Stu29573]

It's just my opinion, I didn't see anything wrong with Iger's letter.

Fair enough, although as I have said before, I can't imagine Walt Disney ever writing a letter like that to a congressman, no matter how upset he was. To me it's just another example of how far away from its creator the Disney Company really is in philosophy.

[DizneyFreak2002]

It's just my opinion, I didn't see anything wrong with Iger's letter.
What do you think was wrong with the Congressman's letter, which was not rude or unprofessional?

[DizneyFreak2002]

Fair enough, although as I have said before, I can't imagine Walt Disney ever writing a letter like that to a congressman, no matter how upset he was. To me it's just another example of how far away from its creator the Disney Company really is in philosophy.

Iger is in town right now, or at least was in town the last two or three days, and supposedly he wants to know why this MyMagic+ is not working as planned... more specifically FastPass+ and why it is failing in tests... He is not a happy camper and his rude and unprofessional letter to the Congressman is showing that... Seems like he can no longer handle the heat, so time for him to get out of the kitchen...

[BrerGnat]

IMO, the Congressman's letter was accusatory and unwarranted, given that all the questions he posed were already answered by Disney. It's like he "heard" about MyMagic+ and didn't even read up on it or do any research before going off on his little rant. His letter was a political move to get his name out there in the press on the SAME DAY John Kerry exited the Senate, leaving a nice vacancy for a Massachusetts politician. How convenient for him.

The truth is, this program is optional and not any more privacy violating than using a credit card or a store loyalty card. Plus, of course they are going to use the data to market to it's customers! It's about time too. How many people here complain that Disney never rewards its loyal customers with discounts. I would love targeted offers. Bring it! They have no reason to market to kids. Kids don't have money. ;)

I didn't find Iger's response rude or over the top. I read it as a CEO who takes his job seriously enough to staunchly defend his company against ludicrous, inaccurate claims. Good for him speaking out candidly. There is too much PR Spin that goes on in the corporate and political world.

[eandrsmom]

I noticed in the letter, that he doesn't respond to the question asking if those who choose not to participate will be penalized.

[DizneyFreak2002]

I noticed in the letter, that he doesn't respond to the question asking if those who choose not to participate will be penalized.

Of course he doesn't answer... He doesn't want the general public to know that if you opt out your experience will be diminished...

[Stu29573]

IMO, the Congressman's letter was accusatory and unwarranted, given that all the questions he posed were already answered by Disney. It's like he "heard" about MyMagic+ and didn't even read up on it or do any research before going off on his little rant. His letter was a political move to get his name out there in the press on the SAME DAY John Kerry exited the Senate, leaving a nice vacancy for a Massachusetts politician. How convenient for him.

The truth is, this program is optional and not any more privacy violating than using a credit card or a store loyalty card. Plus, of course they are going to use the data to market to it's customers! It's about time too. How many people here complain that Disney never rewards its loyal customers with discounts. I would love targeted offers. Bring it! They have no reason to market to kids. Kids don't have money. ;)

I didn't find Iger's response rude or over the top. I read it as a CEO who takes his job seriously enough to staunchly defend his company against ludicrous, inaccurate claims. Good for him speaking out candidly. There is too much PR Spin that goes on in the corporate and political world.

Perhaps the congressman's letter could have been better in tone, however to respond in kind is childish and unproductive. Something can be defended without resorting to schoolyard pushing and shoving. It was, IMHO, beneath the dignity of the company, and especially his position.

[BrerGnat]

Perhaps the congressman's letter could have been better in tone, however to respond in kind is childish and unproductive. Something can be defended without resorting to schoolyard pushing and shoving. It was, IMHO, beneath the dignity of the company, and especially his position.

I'm honestly curious what part of the letter you felt was childish, and or of a bullying nature? I understand some people see it that way, but I really don't know what part(s), in particular, lead people down that path. Perhaps I am less of a "sugar coated" type person in general, but I can't find fault in the tone of that letter, other than it seems Iger was annoyed and offended, and rightfully so, IMO. SInce when did that become something people are not allowed to express?

Not attacking you, by the way, just truly wondering what I'm missing. Everyone's opinions are valid here, just looking to see it form the other side.

[BrerGnat]

Of course he doesn't answer... He doesn't want the general public to know that if you opt out your experience will be diminished...

All I have heard is that if you opt IN to MyMagic+, you will NOT be able to utilize traditional FastPass as well. It's one or the other.

Whether or not FastPass as we know it will be a thing of the past is yet to be determined.

If you choose not to opt in, your experience will not be DIMINISHED, it will just be the same as it has always been up to this point. However, it's up to you to decide how comfortable you are giving Disney the information it wants, and whether the "perks" are worth it to you. Everyone has his comfort level. If you want the characters to greet your kids by name, say Happy Birthday to them, and be able to schedule your FP from your smartphone, check into your resort remotely, pay for your purchases by waving your wristband, etc., that will be YOUR call. However, seeing as how none of that is available right now, it's impossible to say that your experience will be "diminished." Instead, it will simply not be "enhanced." Again, your choice.

[AndrewJackson]

IMO, the Congressman's letter was accusatory and unwarranted, given that all the questions he posed were already answered by Disney.

I agree. The tone was very accusatory. He wasn't truly asking questions, but rather making assumptions and accusations. For example, he didn't want to know if one's experience would be diminished if one opts out. But rather, he was implying that it is diminished.

Iger has a company's reputation to protect. When an obnoxious Congressman sends an over-the-top letter, Iger has no choice but to send a direct letter back to him. I thought it was appropriate given the situation.

[Stu29573]

I guess thats an east coast vs a middle America call. What east coast finds "direct," middle America finds " offensive." I will, therefore keep my opnions to myself. You may all go back to being rude to each other. Im out of it.

[Ian]

If you choose not to opt in, your experience will not be DIMINISHED, it will just be the same as it has always been up to this point.This isn't really true. At a bare minimum, there will be fewer Fastpass available for you due to those who booked them in advance so your opportunity to obtain a Fastpass will be reduced vs. what it is today.

Additionally, you'll be at a significant disadvantage when it comes to parade and fireworks viewing spots, character meet and greets, and other previously spontaneous activities such as these.

Sorry but the truth is if you choose not to participate your experience will most certainly be diminished over those who do.

Also, I thought the Congressman's letter was very well written and appropriate. Didn't find the tone accusatory or hostile at all. It was written in the same exact manner any series of legal interrogatories is written. I'm sure the guy's a lawyer and that's the format he followed.

Iger's response, on the other hand, was completely inappropriate. He came off as hostile, petulant, childish, and very defensive. He also failed to answer most of the key questions that were asked (although in fairness it does seem to indicate that those questions were answered in an attachment that wasn't shared).

This entire program is a ludicrous waste of company resources. I'm predicting it goes down in Disney history as a massive disaster and ultimately is very short-lived. There's WAY too much negativity and backlash associated with it already. If you're drawing letters from Congress over something you're doing at a theme park, you're dramatically off the mark.

[Melanie]

This isn't really true. At a bare minimum, there will be fewer Fastpass available for you due to those who booked them in advance so your opportunity to obtain a Fastpass will be reduced vs. what it is today.

Additionally, you'll be at a significant disadvantage when it comes to parade and fireworks viewing spots, character meet and greets, and other previously spontaneous activities such as these.

Sorry but the truth is if you choose not to participate your experience will most certainly be diminished over those who do.

Also, I thought the Congressman's letter was very well written and appropriate. Didn't find the tone accusatory or hostile at all. It was written in the same exact manner any series of legal interrogatories is written. I'm sure the guy's a lawyer and that's the format he followed.

Iger's response, on the other hand, was completely inappropriate. He came off as hostile, petulant, childish, and very defensive. He also failed to answer most of the key questions that were asked (although in fairness it does seem to indicate that those questions were answered in an attachment that wasn't shared).

This entire program is a ludicrous waste of company resources. I'm predicting it goes down in Disney history as a massive disaster and ultimately is very short-lived. There's WAY too much negativity and backlash associated with it already. If you're drawing letters from Congress over something you're doing at a theme park, you're dramatically off the mark.

I agree with everything you've said here, Ian. :thumbsup:

Like I told someone yesterday, Disney has "next gen'd" me to the west coast. No more WDW for me, except for very special events.

[DizneyFreak2002]

All I have heard is that if you opt IN to MyMagic+, you will NOT be able to utilize traditional FastPass as well. It's one or the other.

Whether or not FastPass as we know it will be a thing of the past is yet to be determined.

If you choose not to opt in, your experience will not be DIMINISHED, it will just be the same as it has always been up to this point. However, it's up to you to decide how comfortable you are giving Disney the information it wants, and whether the "perks" are worth it to you. Everyone has his comfort level. If you want the characters to greet your kids by name, say Happy Birthday to them, and be able to schedule your FP from your smartphone, check into your resort remotely, pay for your purchases by waving your wristband, etc., that will be YOUR call. However, seeing as how none of that is available right now, it's impossible to say that your experience will be "diminished." Instead, it will simply not be "enhanced." Again, your choice.

Ian answered this perfectly... Fact is, your experience will be diminished if you opt out.. I'll take his answer once step further though... FP as we know it is scheduled to go away in favor of FP+... Standby line wait times have increased due to FP... Imagine what they will be with FP+? There is a reason they are adding interactive queues, and it is NOT called plussing...

[DizneyFreak2002]

This isn't really true. At a bare minimum, there will be fewer Fastpass available for you due to those who booked them in advance so your opportunity to obtain a Fastpass will be reduced vs. what it is today.

Additionally, you'll be at a significant disadvantage when it comes to parade and fireworks viewing spots, character meet and greets, and other previously spontaneous activities such as these.

Sorry but the truth is if you choose not to participate your experience will most certainly be diminished over those who do.

Also, I thought the Congressman's letter was very well written and appropriate. Didn't find the tone accusatory or hostile at all. It was written in the same exact manner any series of legal interrogatories is written. I'm sure the guy's a lawyer and that's the format he followed.

Iger's response, on the other hand, was completely inappropriate. He came off as hostile, petulant, childish, and very defensive. He also failed to answer most of the key questions that were asked (although in fairness it does seem to indicate that those questions were answered in an attachment that wasn't shared).

This entire program is a ludicrous waste of company resources. I'm predicting it goes down in Disney history as a massive disaster and ultimately is very short-lived. There's WAY too much negativity and backlash associated with it already. If you're drawing letters from Congress over something you're doing at a theme park, you're dramatically off the mark.

Stated perfectly... They already have problems with the program... The negativity directed toward it is only one problem... Computers are failing... FP+ is failing... Testing is not going as planned... it is a disaster already... Cast Members have said they hate the new system... The money should have been allocated to fixing things that are broken, not to something that was just fine as it was... But this is WDW in 2013... Bottom line trumps show... Bottom line trumps efficiency... Executive bonuses trumps all...

[DizneyFreak2002]

I agree with everything you've said here, Ian. :thumbsup:

Like I told someone yesterday, Disney has "next gen'd" me to the west coast. No more WDW for me, except for very special events.

You are not the only one... I know several people, after hearing about this program, have said they will not book trips they were planning for this year... I was going to head down in October... I still am, but Universal and SeaWorld are getting my dollars... Not WDW... I'd rather go where new experiences are being created... Universal and SeaWorld are delivering...

[Stu29573]

Im sorry for being a bit gripey last post. An oncoming migraine and having to defend my positions dont mix. Better now, and again, sorry about that.

That being said, Im not at all suprised the WDW computers arent up to the task. I have told my own computer related horror story here.

Also, I too have been "NextGenned" to the west coast. No muss, no fuss, just laid back California fun! When I started to research the trip I was amazed at how much they have that WDW doesnt. Now its a no brainer in ny book. Sorry,WDW, I guess seven trips was enough. Call me when you get your act together....

[Nascfan]

FP as we know it is scheduled to go away in favor of FP+

Unless I missed it in the previous pages of thread, and I apologize in advance if I did, but if I didn't......source please?

[DizneyFreak2002]

Unless I missed it in the previous pages of thread, and I apologize in advance if I did, but if I didn't......source please?

People who have very good connections into what is going on with the program, right from the source... And EMH is also on the chopping block due to this program...

Nothing will happen until the program is up and running... and as long as they keep having FP+ issues, the roll out will keep getting pushed back, and little by little will we see things rolled out... RFID is the easiest which is why we see that happening first... But FP+ is a nightmare and a disaster...

[DizneyRox]

Projects get approval based on ROI (Return On Investment). When timelines get pushed, when development goes over budget, return is impacted.

If the CEO is involved, it's bad. The underlings usually try their hardest to hide the problems, so by the time it's escalated to the top, it's worse than you can imagine.

Might not be obvious from the outside looking in, but I've seen enough to make an educated guess. Last thing they need is a pesky senator asking questions throwing a wrench in the works. They've spent too much to back down now though, someone (probably the bean counters) is convinced theres profit to be had as a result of this. They will try to fix it... Maybe they can, maybe they can't...

[BrerGnat]

Im sorry for being a bit gripey last post. An oncoming migraine and having to defend my positions dont mix. Better now, and again, sorry about that.

That being said, Im not at all suprised the WDW computers arent up to the task. I have told my own computer related horror story here.

Also, I too have been "NextGenned" to the west coast. No muss, no fuss, just laid back California fun! When I started to research the trip I was amazed at how much they have that WDW doesnt. Now its a no brainer in ny book. Sorry,WDW, I guess seven trips was enough. Call me when you get your act together....

Glad you feel better. Migraines are my sworn enemy.

Count me as another DL devotee. After my last WDW trip, I'm in no hurry to go back. After going to DL just a couple months ago, I am DYING to go back.

I haven't been a fan of any of WDW's interactive this or NextGen that. Ironically, this MyMagic+ is the only recent thing I think might actually be cool, but I really do question the reliability of a system running on computers when they can't even keep their own website working effectively or provide decent wifi. Not holding my breath on the FP+ portion of this system ever working as intended. I can see them scrapping that aspect of it.

[DizneyFreak2002]

Projects get approval based on ROI (Return On Investment). When timelines get pushed, when development goes over budget, return is impacted.

If the CEO is involved, it's bad. The underlings usually try their hardest to hide the problems, so by the time it's escalated to the top, it's worse than you can imagine.

Might not be obvious from the outside looking in, but I've seen enough to make an educated guess. Last thing they need is a pesky senator asking questions throwing a wrench in the works. They've spent too much to back down now though, someone (probably the bean counters) is convinced theres profit to be had as a result of this. They will try to fix it... Maybe they can, maybe they can't...

Remember when the project was passed off as costing $1 billion? Now it has ballooned past $1.5 and closer to $2 billion... And it has a chance at passing that number... Imagine what $2 billion would have done for the theme parks and DTD? Imagine the ROI if they only added new attractions, special themed merchandise (Cars Land and WWoHP prove what kind of money could be made)? Instead, they have to be asking themselves how will they make their money back on MyMagic+? Oh, I don't know, raise prices about 11 percent? Lay off CMs? Cut entertainment offerings? Start charging for FP+? Upsell guest accommodations? Who knows....

[LVT]

3 FP per 1 day in 1 park. It is not much. This sounds like a nice way to include the non-park commandos.

[Stu29573]

Glad you feel better. Migraines are my sworn enemy.

Count me as another DL devotee. After my last WDW trip, I'm in no hurry to go back. After going to DL just a couple months ago, I am DYING to go back.

I haven't been a fan of any of WDW's interactive this or NextGen that. Ironically, this MyMagic+ is the only recent thing I think might actually be cool, but I really do question the reliability of a system running on computers when they can't even keep their own website working effectively or provide decent wifi. Not holding my breath on the FP+ portion of this system ever working as intended. I can see them scrapping that aspect of it.

Thanks, Natalie! Yeah, Im really looking forward to DL. The last time I was there was 1973. I dont remember much,lol!

[Melanie]

I dont remember much,lol!

Which is probably okay, since A LOT has changed since then. ;)

[BrerGnat]

Thanks, Natalie! Yeah, Im really looking forward to DL. The last time I was there was 1973. I dont remember much,lol!

It's a little bit different nowadays. ;)

[Stu29573]

It's a little bit different nowadays. ;)

Yeah, one or two small additions, I hear. Lol

[Stu29573]

You know, my two most vivid memories from that Disneyland trip in 1973 are The Pirates of the Caribbean (as a ten year old, I was blown away!) and my grandmother getting off of the Matterhorn and immediately taking a valium! Lol:D Ok, I'm way off topic now...Back to the thread!

[Cheshire_Girl]

As a FL resident AP Holder...I am completely and totally disgusted at what's going on here in The World.
All of these coming and proposed changes are all geared toward first time visitors from out of town (I think someone else may have actually pointed this out earlier in the thread) And ultimately, it is goes they way they seem to have planned- there is no reason for me to go. I won't be able to get a table to eat or ride more than 1-2 rides in day since I don't have FP+. Why bother?
Was in the parks this weekend and it seems that the crowds were very light when walking around, but the wait times were not in line with that. It just seemed like the Workld was not right. The more I read about this FP+ and Magic My Way nonsense the more I think next year my amusements dollars will be headed a little further up I-4...Between Bush Gardens in Tampa, Sea World and the Universal parks, I should be able to find something to do and save some money too (no more pin or vinyl trading!)
Disney if you're reading this...Shame on you for this none sense...

[ChipNDale79]

As a FL resident AP Holder...I am completely and totally disgusted at what's going on here in The World.
All of these coming and proposed changes are all geared toward first time visitors from out of town (I think someone else may have actually pointed this out earlier in the thread) And ultimately, it is goes they way they seem to have planned- there is no reason for me to go. I won't be able to get a table to eat or ride more than 1-2 rides in day since I don't have FP+. Why bother?
Was in the parks this weekend and it seems that the crowds were very light when walking around, but the wait times were not in line with that. It just seemed like the Workld was not right. The more I read about this FP+ and Magic My Way nonsense the more I think next year my amusements dollars will be headed a little further up I-4...Between Bush Gardens in Tampa, Sea World and the Universal parks, I should be able to find something to do and save some money too (no more pin or vinyl trading!)
Disney if you're reading this...Shame on you for this none sense...

This forum really needs a like button.......

[doodleboy]

I have a trip in May and September of this year. I am wondering when FP+ will happen? Will I be affected in May while staying at BCV? I just hate to show up and realize I missed my window to use FP+. Don't like the idea as I have stated before, but my arm being twisted I will have no choice to comply if I want to ride TSM in a reasonable time. :confused:

[waymickey]

Called this weekend to make my Res. and ask about the FP+ and wrist bands for my trip in August. I was told " If it is up and running in August I would be notified after final payment . The wristbands will be sent with instructions"

This is the first time that I made reservations and I am not jumping with excitement. I feel more nervous (if that is the right word) that maybe my hard earned cash could have been better used soemwhere else. :shake:

[Stu29573]

Called this weekend to make my Res. and ask about the FP+ and wrist bands for my trip in August. I was told " If it is up and running in August I would be notified after final payment . The wristbands will be sent with instructions"

This is the first time that I made reservations and I am not jumping with excitement. I feel more nervous (if that is the right word) that maybe my hard earned cash could have been better used soemwhere else. :shake:

After final payment? That sounds a bit mercenary. What if you needed to know before then? Wow, can they screw this up any more? (Don't bother answering that):(

[Aurora]

"The wristbands will be sent with instructions."

I couldn't help it -- I heard the music from "MIssion: Impossible" in my head when I read that. :eek2:

[PopPhan]

After final payment? That sounds a bit mercenary. What if you needed to know before then? Wow, can they screw this up any more? (Don't bother answering that):(

I don't understand why you would call that mercenary. What would you need to know about the 'band' before you had finalized your visit by paying in full.

It would actually surprise me if they sent the physical bands to you and not have you pick them up at your resort upon check in. Are they really going to have all your data programmed into the RFID chip at that point, or will you need to present the band at check in to activate it as a room key? I mean, you never got your KTTW card prior to check in, why would this be different?

Unless you have a room only reservation, you must be paid in full within 45 days of arrival. I would expect that until you are paid in full they would not want you to be taking FP+ allotments away from fully paid guests.

You do not need the 'band' to make ADRs, only your reservation number.

[Stu29573]

I don't understand why you would call that mercenary. What would you need to know about the 'band' before you had finalized your visit by paying in full.

It would actually surprise me if they sent the physical bands to you and not have you pick them up at your resort upon check in. Are they really going to have all your data programmed into the RFID chip at that point, or will you need to present the band at check in to activate it as a room key? I mean, you never got your KTTW card prior to check in, why would this be different?

Unless you have a room only reservation, you must be paid in full within 45 days of arrival. I would expect that until you are paid in full they would not want you to be taking FP+ allotments away from fully paid guests.

You do not need the 'band' to make ADRs, only your reservation number.

I took it as they wouldn't give you information about the program before you paid up. How to make your FP+ reservations and such. I guess that shows how much my perception of WDW (whom I used to think could do no wrong) has changed. If they have lost me, they have REALLY screwed up.

[ChipNDale79]

I took it as they wouldn't give you information about the program before you paid up. How to make your FP+ reservations and such. I guess that shows how much my perception of WDW (whom I used to think could do no wrong) has changed. If they have lost me, they have REALLY screwed up.

There's a lot of negativity regarding FP+ on here and on other Disney forums i visit. We all have one thing in common here, we're all disney nuts, so imagine how the "non disney nuts" will perceive this once its up and running.

If we think disney can do no wrong, and believe they are now, then disney is really going to get a negative response from the "non disney nuts" crowd......

To me disney is taking the fun, or magic, out of the vacation. Without that, then what's the point?

[Stu29573]

There's a lot of negativity regarding FP+ on here and on other Disney forums i visit. We all have one thing in common here, we're all disney nuts, so imagine how the "non disney nuts" will perceive this once its up and running.

If we think disney can do no wrong, and believe they are now, then disney is really going to get a negative response from the "non disney nuts" crowd......

To me disney is taking the fun, or magic, out of the vacation. Without that, then what's the point?

I completely agree.... This is a disaster, even if it doesn't prove to be as bad as everybody thinks. The PR damage is done...