The three new purple graphic MagicBands released today are more than just a new color… they are actually a new design for MagicBands. They are thinner, and because of that they are also lighter and more flexible. When wearing the band, they form more of a circle around your wrist rather than the older design which had a bulky bulge on the top of the wrist. Just hold one of these new bands in your hand and you’ll notice the lightness and flexibility right away.
Update Oct. 10th, 2015: A source has told me that these are “version 2.0” of MagicBands and all new bands going forward will produced with this new thinner design. The source states that the bands are more breathable and also have longer battery life as well.
Here’s three new purple bands on the top, with an older one band on the bottom. Notice the thickness:
Because of the flexibility and thinner design, the bands do have a cheaper feeling to them. I feel like they may have the potential to peel away the adult strap after multiple wears, and for a band that costs $30 for Limited Edition versions, I hope that this does not end up being true. This may be on purpose though so it’s easier for people to tear off the strap for their child to fit their smaller wrists. We’ll see over time if these new designs hold up.
I bought both the Villians and Jack MagicBands today. Both were thinner than my others.
Just kidding. It was thinner but it definitely felt lighter.
Sorry if this sounds ignorant, but what “battery”? I thought it was simply a chip.
There is a small battery in every MagicBand that allows for long-range use, like automatic Photopass on rides and dining services at Be Our Guest restaurant (so they know what table you are sitting at).
Will purple be an option offered through the free band you receive when staying onsite?? We are going in February 2016 so I am hoping purple will be an option for my daughter!! 🙂
Sorry, I really don’t know. I have no idea when or even if they’ll be adding it as a free option online.
Purple Mansion Wallpaper and Villains bands are available for sale (not just for pick-up) in the DisneyParks App now.
V.H.
I meant Disney ‘Shop Parks’ app BTW, sry.
V.H.
Thanks for the update! Great news!
I have until 1/24/16 to customize. What would you say the chances are of people being available by then?
Honestly I have no clue. I haven’t heard any dates as to when they could be available.
I call pretty much everyday of once reason or another .. AP, kids in the DCP program and were on our 4th trip this year … I do ask about the purple… tonight … I heard something other than we don’t know when it will be released ..but keep checking the website site with all the magic bands for purchase it will be there . maybe that means it will be a purchase since I mentioned I was waiting 6 more days before I ordered my next color . 🙂 hope that helps… by the way just found your site! so excitited!
Thanks for the info Karin!