UPDATE: Launch Date & More Info on the MagicBand 2
We are beginning to get more details on the MagicBand 2, just announced and released this morning at D23’s Destination D event.
The MagicBand 2 will be mailed to Walt Disney World annual pass holders starting in December 2016. In January 2017, resort guests will start to receive the new MagicBands as well. Around the same time, the retail versions of MagicBand 2 will be released, along with the new accessories such as the keychains.
As for the MagicBand 2 itself, the puck inside is removalble only via a small screwdriver. The band distributed today does not include it, but the accessories, such as the keychains, will include a small screwdriver for guests to remove the puck from the band and move it into the alternate holder.
Now having the MagicBand 2 in my hand, I will say it is not uncomfortable or too bulky as I had worried. It is more akin to wearing a watch now, but not a huge adjustment.
The new MagicBand 2 works the same as the original band and light-up effects at touch points with specialty versions of the band will continue to be made.