Hey Howdy Hey Kevin and welcome to planDisney!
Thank you so much for stopping by with your question about MagicBands. I will be happy to give you more information to get you ready for your Magical vacation.
MagicBands are such a great way to navigate the parks. Having the ability to access your theme park tickets, open your room door and charging privileges all from one place revolutionized the vacation experience in Walt Disney World Resort. Generation 1 and 2 of MagicBands were great and all but the new
MagicBand+ is the next-level experience in the parks. Also having the option of
Disney MagicMobile Service is another great way to access everything you need from one place.
MagicBand generations 1 and 2 did have limitations such as their battery life. The typical function was anywhere from 1-3 years depending on usage and your source! I have read that some functions of the bands such as accessing your room and theme park tickets stay with the band for longer due to the technology behind it. Things like accessing your band for ride photos and such may not work as efficiently or at all due to higher energy demands with connections. The only way to really know if your MagicBand will work or not is to try it out!
I would make sure you do have a backup plan if the old-school bands don't work how you need them to. You have the option of purchasing MagicBand+ in the parks and resorts or you can also create a Magic Mobile pass for free on your smartphone. Once you log in, tap on the three horizontal lines on the bottom right of your screen. Look for the tile "Disney Magic Mobile" which you will tap on and then follow the steps to set up for you and those in your party.
I hope you have a Magical time on your upcoming trip. Please feel free to stop back with any further questions you may have, we are always happy to help!
Have a Magical day,
Nick