You’ve heard of smartphones—and now even smartwatches—but have you ever encountered a smart wristband? Well, you just might soon.
Disney World has something called the MagicBand. It’s an RFID-equipped wristband that you can use to get into your room, buy food, enter the park, and access Disney’s FastPass system.
Of course, it also means you’re at the mercy of any computer glitches. Plus, it allows Disney to collect a lot of data on their guests’ behavior and purchases.
The smart bands are showing up in other places as well.
Hotels sell $8 wristbands that work as a room key and to buy food and drinks on property.
Great Wolf Lodges, which are part hotel, part water park, also have smart wristbands for your room entry and purchases—they even work at the vending machines.
The idea is to make it easier for you to spend money. After all, if you don’t have to dig out your wallet or look for spare change, you’re more likely to fall for those impulse buys. Just remember, all those charges go straight to your credit card.
For more information, visit the Apps & Technology and Travel Gadgets Archives.
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