Disney parks launches new app to get you off apps
Disney knows visiting its park involves checking your smartphone obsessively, and it has a plan to address that.
Disney parks have launched a new app called the Disney Imagineering Labs app, aimed at reducing the reliance on smartphones during park visits. This app debuted for a select group of Magic Key participants, which are annual passholders, at the Secrets of the Spire attraction in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The app features interactive minigames and challenges related to the Star Wars universe.
Disney also introduced an Enchanted Guide AI-powered app, which is still in development and expected to launch early next year. This app will allow users to ask text-based or voice-based questions, such as asking about wait times for rides or suggesting nearby dining options. One standout feature of the Enchanted Guide is the ability to set alerts when wait times for attractions drop below a user-defined threshold, allowing guests to enjoy their day without constantly checking their phones for updates.
As part of the initial rollout, Disney is collecting user feedback to refine the app and ensure it genuinely enhances the park experience. The app will be featured in a partnership with Meta for their Ray-Ban smart glasses, enabling users to interact with the app through voice commands and visual cues. However, concerns have been raised about the app's potential to replace existing Disney park apps, leading to a fragmented experience where users must switch between apps to book Lightning Lane appointments or access other features.
While the new apps may reduce phone usage to some extent, it remains to be seen if they will ultimately create a more immersive, offline experience at Disney parks.
Written by urgent.news from Mashable's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.