Disney replaces FastPass with paid line-skipping replacement Disney Genie Plus
Disney Genie, a new scheduling tool for the parks’ theme parks, was introduced Wednesday. The Disney Genie is free and eliminates FastPass and FastPass PLUS, which are time management mainstays. To skip the long lines at Walt Disney World and Disneyland, guests will need to pay “Genie Plus” to access the enhanced version of the app. This adds an audio, image, and augmented reality features and the line-skipping “Lightning Lane”. This add-on is $15 at Disney World and $20 at Disneyland.
FastPass was created in 1999 to help people avoid the long lines at attractions. To get the shorter lines, guests used kiosks to pick up their passes. FastPass was eventually integrated into other park planning apps. However, Disney will now shift its focus to Genie Plus and Genie Plus. Although it may seem shocking to Disney World visitors, Disneyland has eliminated its FastPass system since 2017 and introduced the $20 MaxPass. Disney states that the majority of rides will be included in the Disney Genie Plus perk. However, like the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, some rides will be available as an a la carte option. Disney has not yet revealed the pricing of these additional line-skipping options.
Disney vacations can be expensive. Tickets to Disney World start at $109 for adults and go up to $224 for full Park Hopper packages. On social media, many have pointed out that charging extra for what once was a free perk makes the Disney experience inaccessible to those who can’t afford it. Others have argued that the FastPass system is actually the reason for the backed-up lines and that getting rid of it may help streamline the waiting process.
Disney Genie is a tool that will help guests plan their day. It will show wait times and forecast future wait times. This will allow them to maximize their experience. Based on guests’ interests, the app will make personalized recommendations. This service will be available in the fall. The full breakdown of its services can be found on the Disney Parks b.g…
