Disney Parks Using IPads for ‘FastPass’ System

Disney may soon be using iPads to supplement the parks re-introduced FastPass system. According to Inside The Magic, an unofficial Disney theme park blog, the iPads will utilize Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology to identify FastPass patrons and get them to the front of the line more quickly.

FastPass is program that allows park goers to bypass rides and attraction lines and go to the head of the queue. Right now, the reintroduction of FastPass is still in the beginning stages of trial at Disney, with patrons being specially selected to try out the new feature. Unfortunately their is no way to sign up for the program, you just have to be lucky enough to be selected.

The guest books their ride in advance, and puts on an RFID band. They scan their information at a special post in the park. Their info is sent to a nearby Disney employee who carries an iPad with all the reservation information.

This system is currently being tested to see if it indeed makes things operate more smoothly, and may replace the old system of distributing fast pass tickets at a kiosk, which is basically just another line to stand in.

The test is being featured on The Haunted Mansion ride, as it typically has short wait times to begin with. I guess the thinking here is to start small with the trial run to see if it is actually feasible. The new system may eliminate ride lines all together if everyone has a predetermined ride time. People can just sign up for a time, enjoy the other parks attractions and show up when it is their turn to ride.

An unofficial Disney twitter account @DisneyProjects has been following the new system and posting tweets about how it’s working if you are interested in keeping up with it.