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ORLANDO, Fla. — One of the most recognizable companies in the world is looking to make its customers more high-tech.
If you've been to Disney World, then you know all about the lines involved with getting in and around the famous theme park. But some new technology may change your visit to the place where dreams come true.
Some Disney resort guests have been bypassing the traditional turnstiles and instead of a paper ticket, using an ID card that is held up to a touch point for park admission.
"We love it. It's very convenient and quick. With a 3-year-old, a 1-year-old, and one on the way here in April, every little bit of assistance we can get to make life easier, we appreciate it. We need it," said Clint Gault, a park guest.
In the coming months, the cards will be replaced with magic bands: wrist bands that contain a guest's ID number and are linked to their credit card and whatever information the guest provides. It becomes their key not only for park admission, but to enter their hotel, and for purchasing food and souvenirs.
"Rather than having to constantly dig through their pockets for this piece of paper or that piece of paper or this card or that card, it's all very simply right on their wrist and every family member can have one," said Nick Franklin, Disney spokesman.
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The magic bands are part of a bigger technology rollout called MyMagic+, which includes a new MyDisney experience website and smartphone app where guests can manage their entire Disney vacation.
For instance, if it's your child's birthday and you provide that information online, Cinderella could give the child a personal greeting without prompting.
As for concerns the new system is a little too "Big Brother," Disney admits it will provide the park with more information regarding guests' preferences, but they say the focus is on improving guests' experiences. They say all the data is secure.
"All of the information itself is secured in very secure data services with full encryption and all the other things that you would want for your personal data," Franklin said.
