ORLANDO, Fla. – A new, interactive version of Disney World’s MagicBand will launch next year, the company announced Thursday.

What You Need To Know

  •  Disney World to roll out a new, interactive version of its MagicBand

  •  MagicBand+ is set to debut next year although an exact date has not yet been announced

  • The wearable device will feature color-changing lights, haptic vibrations and gesture recognition

​MagicBand+, according to Disney, will offer guests a new way to experience things in the parks.

The upcoming version of the wearable device will feature color-changing lights and haptic vibrations. It will also be able to recognize gestures.

Guests will be able to use the band to interact with the new 50th anniversary character statues, the nighttime spectaculars and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

In the Star Wars-themed land, for example, guests will be able to use MagicBand+ to find virtual bounties. During the nighttime spectaculars, the device will light up and complement what’s happening in the shows.

Along with the new features, MagicBand+ will continue to have the same functions as previous version of MagicBand, including park entry, guest room entry and Disney PhotoPass.

Disney also shared a peek at some of the new designs coming to MagicBand+.

More details such as an exact launch date and pricing will be released at a later date. However, Disney said that there will be a discounted pre-arrival price for Disney resort hotel guests. Passholders will also be offered a discount.

The new MagicBand comes as Disney World celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Ashley Carter - Digital Journalist

Ashley Carter is a digital journalist who covers the fast-paced and ever-changing world of Florida theme parks and attractions. She joined Spectrum News 13 in 2013 and produced around-the-clock news coverage — first on TV and then for the station’s digital platforms.

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