Hi Kelly!
I'm so excited about the next generation of MagicBands, scheduled to roll out in 2017. In fact, I purchased one for myself from the
Disney Store website for Christmas! I wore it on my Disney trip last weekend, and it's super comfortable - and super cute! It was really easy to link it to my My Disney Experience account using the ID number on the inside of the band.
The MagicBand 2 was first announced on
Disney Parks Blog in November, and guests have been eager to check out the new technology. The new bands will work like the current MagicBands, but are more customizable than the originals. The center piece is removable and can be placed in lanyard clips and carabiners (called MagicKeepers) for those who prefer not to wear them on their wrist.
While there's no "official" rollout date for the new bands, I have a friend that just received some for her trip in late January! Hopefully you'll be receiving them for your upcoming Walt Disney World Resort vacation in February.
Thanks for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your question. I hope you have a magical vacation! Please let us know if you have any further questions - we're happy to help! - Diane W.