The Pro-Genie App discussion thread - speculate how the app could make your trip next trip great!

[5DisneyNuts]

Will Disney price a Lightning Pass single @$20 if they can sell 4 @$10 instead? I'm thinking the answer would be no. There's a sweet spot where the price will be just low enough to consistently sell out every time slot. With dynamic pricing, that cost-per-person can be on a sliding scale which can be adjusted up or down based on crowd size as well as length of the VQ/standby wait. But it will always be attractive enough to completely sell out.

You make a good point. I'm trying to withhold judgements until there is a formal announcement and see what onsite guests will be offered.

If I recall correctly Len was speculating a tier 1 FP during the busiest times could be $25pp. That's an extra $100 for a family of 4 for SDD, another $100 for TSM. That's hard to swallow for me since I would now be waiting in long standby lines, VQ/standby, or paying $200 for what would have been free in early 2020 with refreshing.

Yes WDW has an obligation to shareholders and things that used to be free like H2O toiletries are now being sold in the gift shops, I get it. Time marches on, but $200 for 2 rides on top of the gate, that's alot of magic the genie is going to have to provide.

I'm trying to stay positive, but the rumors are concerning. I'm sorry if it comes across as negative, but to say that an extra $200 per day in order to have an app tell me Muppets is a 10 minute wait is not going to be worth it. YMMV.

And if WDW is reading social media posts, all opinions should be considered.

 

[shortster]

What I really want, in the simplest terms, is to know that when I arrive at AK, I will be guaranteed to ride Safari, EE and FOP with minimal (30 min Max) waits.

As someone who is restricted to the busiest times of year to ygo, I can’t have that - even when we arrive 30 minutes before EMH to make the mad dash to FOP then again across to EE before slowing down because have a FP for Safari in 3 hours. There’s no magic in that experience for us. If I had a guarantee that I would at some point in the day get to ride all 3, even if that means paying for that guarantee, then I can experience the park in a whole new way. The early morning rush disappears as I can enjoy the magic of watching a park wake up.

YES!!! For my family, vacation means a relaxing morning and sleeping in. We can handle one rope drop but that’s about it. Paying to avoid a 6:30 am bus ride but still getting guaranteed access to headliners? There would be value in that for my family.

 

[5DisneyNuts]

Agree there are lots of ways to adapt to any upcoming changes, just like there are lots of ways to “do Disney” currently. As a very average mom of an average family (who is admittedly a super planner and reads these boards for tips & info) I’m pumped to hear more about the Genie rollout.

We’re not multiple trips per year folks, or even annual visitors. We won’t ever buy DVC or have an annual pass. But we love Disney and consistently vacation there about once every 4ish years or so.

The thought of being able to pay for immediate or non-standby access to headline attractions (similar to how we’ve paid for dessert parties in the past) is very appealing. I can understand why folks who go multiple times in a year see it differently. But for us…what’s another $250 when you’re spending multiple thousands over one week, twice a decade? I can think of about 10 ways we can make up that cost without it having a major impact on the way we like to vacation.

Plus, the possibility of being granted “wishes“ based on our customer preferences, data history, or spend level could be interesting if executed well. Some places in Vegas have a great track record here…

Change is always difficult, esp anticipating changes with very little information to go on. Hopefully more news comes out soon!

$100 or $125 potentially per group (of 5) per ride per day depending on crowd levels on top of the gate.

If you feel as though you can budget for it that's great, but it is a significant upcharge over what was offered for free. If true (and that's a big if) it needs to be called what it is.

I think (and it's only my opinion) that any conversation of genie, what it will offer, and paid FP, has to be in context with the rumored costs associated.

A recurring theme amongst these threads is that folks are willing to absorb the rumored costs for less frequent trips which seems to fit Disney's management thinking to make money off the less frequent visitor at the potential expense of the yearly/AP/resident guests. I hope they build in something that shows loyalty for frequent guests.

 

[5DisneyNuts]

I'm curious, what cost are you willing to pay pp/per ride based on crowd levels?

The rumor is $10-$25 per person, per ride, per day depending on the time of the year.

That seems like a significant upcharge for something I could do for free 60 days out and with a same day refresh and no rope drop.

YES!!! For my family, vacation means a relaxing morning and sleeping in. We can handle one rope drop but that’s about it. Paying to avoid a 6:30 am bus ride but still getting guaranteed access to headliners? There would be value in that for my family.

 

[New Mouse]

I can see where there's the potential for some guests to be quite happy being directed here and there by Genie. But you and I both know that this is Disney's way of manipulating crowd distribution. If the guest comes away smiling after that experience, that's a bonus. But it's not the primary intent.

Thry wanted this with fp plus but failed. I dont see most guests being happy w this.

 

[crazymomof4]

what’s another $250 when you’re spending multiple thousands over one week, twice a decade? I can think of about 10 ways we can make up that cost without it having a major impact on the way we like to vacation.

$250 extra per family, per vacation, is beer money. I happily forked that over at DLR for MaxPass, twice! This would be good news!

$100 or $125 potentially per group (of 5) per ride per day depending on crowd levels on top of the gate.

This is a very different scenario and I'm pretty sure would be a deal-breaker for our family. Could we afford it? Yes. Would we pay it? No.

 

[shortster]

I'm curious, what cost are you willing to pay pp/per ride based on crowd levels?

The rumor is $10-$25 per person, per ride, per day depending on the time of the year.

That seems like a significant upcharge for something I could do for free 60 days out and with a same day refresh and no rope drop.

I can think of 3, *maybe* 4 rides where we’d want a paid option. We have a family of 4, so we’re talking about a cost of $160-$400 based on your numbers, on the high end. Our projected costs for our 2022 trip (8 day mod/value split stay, 7 day park hopper, flights, food, etc) are north of $7k. So for us, that extra $275 (on average), over a week, on our once every 4 year trip…we will happily pay.

We did get great FPs at 60 days out but our family hated being locked in every day of our vacation. And I hated FP refresh. I felt like it was a time suck and a definite fun suck.

I get that our situation isn’t everyone’s, just sharing another perspective. Many of our local friends travel at the same frequency we do, although I have no idea what their budgets or habits are.

 

[crazymomof4]

.... giving the obsessive type of planner an "I love classic rides!" spit-out itinerary is almost going to come across as insulting. Like, have you no respect for my craft, ha ha! Send me access to 5 reams of data about your historical line data cross referenced with the weather and the timing of Easter that year and then we'll talk!

This wins the" "Made Me Laugh 'til I Spit My Drink Across the Room Award"! Thank You!
After roll-out, if this proves to be true, you HAVE to start a "Genie is for noobs" thread!

 

[DisneyAuntie12]

This wins the" "Made Me Laugh 'til I Spit My Drink Across the Room Award"! Thank You!
After roll-out, if this proves to be true, you HAVE to start a "Genie is for noobs" thread!

Lol, thanks. I have to admit, I am always the chill, 'whatever' person in most things, so I secretly like having my turn to be a bit of a snob about something.

My siblings talk about their new 'cupping spoons' and I'm like "Um... wut?". But ask me to create a Disney itinerary with the shortest walking distances between everyone's favorite rides while factoring in hidden Mickeys and I will do it, darn it!

 

[whiporee]

I can't speak for others but my fear for what may come with this announcement is speculation based on past performance.

What is an example in the domestic parks of WDW taking that was once free and charging for it? Parking at resorts? Is that what you're hanging your expectations on?

At any point in the last 25 years, WDW could have charged for reduced waits at the domestic parks. It would have even been acceptable, given how many people misunderstand the use of both FP classic and FP+ and think such a thing was already in place. Every one of their competitors does it, and has done it for years. Even the highly-praised Universal Resort tie in only comes with their most expensive hotels. But WDW has only ever tied the chance to buy additional passes as part of their Club Level program, and if you want to add in the VIP tours, I guess you can do that, too. But there's not been things that used to be free that are now charged for. So when you talk about past performance, I wonder what performance you are speculating based on.

 

[crazymomof4]

I’m aware of what she meant.

Sarcastic remarks from myself withstanding, of course i’m hoping for the best here. And for the record, I think some people mistake the negativity I convey as if I (or others) are here to only bash Disney. That isn’t the case at all. I care very much for Disney. I love what they have offered us for over 30+ years and have happily gave them our money for unforgettable experiences. I’m attached to the magic, the nostalgia and everything in between. Have been for a long time. I’ve adjusted many times to their decision making and changes, and mostly have done so happily. But like watching a family member making bad choices, it is that level of care that prompts me to take the approach where I express my concerns in a negative way (call it Disney bashing or whatever anyone wants) on a public forum like this. I mean we could write pages and pages about what we love regarding Disney right? But I’m here to learn and consume info regarding changes and how it impacts for future trips, primarily. And in that light, I’m worried that Disney’s potential new cost cutting culture is taking shape and running rampant. I’m worried that the guest experience is not front and center as it used to be. I’m worried that they are getting into the habit of giving us less while we spend more. I’m worried that new cast members will never know the old Disney and the standard that many are used to in terms of hospitality from them. I don’t know where the line gets drawn (meaning when does it become too much and I stop going) but my deep care and love for Disney and our history with it is what drives me to speak out on a public forum in this way, in hopes that other people feel the same way and collectively speak out as well, and that ultimately at the end of the road it all provides useful feedback for Disney to logistically draw from (whether that last part actually comes to fruition or not is probably unlikely I guess, but still).

Of course I’m hoping for the best with a Disney offering

I agree 100% and actually expressed similar in a post on "the other" thread. I love your illustration about a relative making a poor decision and how care for them drives an expression of concern that could be viewed as "bashing". This is exactly how I feel.
I am NOT giving up hope entirely that my fears are unwarranted and I end up pleasantly surprised. I still held hope after free FP was lost at DLP but then when free FP went away at Shanghai too... I really became concerned for WDW.

 

[5DisneyNuts]

What is an example in the domestic parks of WDW taking that was once free and charging for it? Parking at resorts? Is that what you're hanging your expectations on?

At any point in the last 25 years, WDW could have charged for reduced waits at the domestic parks. It would have even been acceptable, given how many people misunderstand the use of both FP classic and FP+ and think such a thing was already in place. Every one of their competitors does it, and has done it for years. Even the highly-praised Universal Resort tie in only comes with their most expensive hotels. But WDW has only ever tied the chance to buy additional passes as part of their Club Level program, and if you want to add in the VIP tours, I guess you can do that, too. But there's not been things that used to be free that are now charged for. So when you talk about past performance, I wonder what performance you are speculating based on.

I know you didn't quote me so apologies for getting in the middle.

Yes WDW has the absolute right to charge for whatever they want. "Free" dining, "free" parking, "free" FP. It's all relative. When diminishing returns don't equal costs, people have to make a choice, it's nothing new and WDW is certainly not the only division or company that's had to make that choice and deal with the consequences.

IMO, there's no argument here, just people expressing an opinion on cost vs. experience. Everyone has their own breaking point and on a monitored discussion board, all voices should be heard.

An extra potential 4 figure cost added to gate charges is not insignificant and shouldn't be treated as such.

 

[whiporee]

I know you didn't quote me so apologies for getting in the middle.

Yes WDW has the absolute right to charge for whatever they want. "Free" dining, "free" parking, "free" FP. It's all relative. When diminishing returns don't equal costs, people have to make a choice, it's nothing new and WDW is certainly not the only division or company that's had to make that choice and deal with the consequences.

IMO, there's no argument here, just people expressing an opinion on cost vs. experience. Everyone has their own breaking point and on a monitored discussion board, all voices should be heard.

An extra potential 4 figure cost added to gate charges is not insignificant and shouldn't be treated as such.

I'm not arguing that. I'm just following the logic.

The poster said that they are speculating FPs are going to be attached to a price, and she (I assume) said that was based on past performance. I'm simply asking what an example of something that was once included and now comes with a charge, because that's what her speculation implies -- they've done this before, so it's reasonable to assume they will do it again. But this is not something they've done.

So when you say something like "an extra potential 4-figure cost added to the gate charge," I ask what you base that speculation on. Not history, because charging for what was once free has not been WDW's practice. Perks may go away, but WDW didn't start charging to see the Electric Light Parade. They just got rid of it. They have desert parties fore fireworks but they don't make everyone else wear blindfolds. Charging for what was free is not their pattern, and I'm astounded by ho wmany people keep insisting that it has been.

 

[crazymomof4]

What is an example in the domestic parks of WDW taking that was once free and charging for it? Parking at resorts? Is that what you're hanging your expectations on?

So when you talk about past performance, I wonder what performance you are speculating based on.

"with the Disney pushing "Premier Access" as a brand across its products, including theme parks, it's reasonable that fans in the United States may now begin to question when some form of Disney Premier Access will come to Walt Disney World"
https://www.themeparkinsider.com/flume/202107/8332/
"Disneyland Paris has just announced that they will be replacing their free FastPass program with a new paid offering – Disney Premier Access. This program is similar to what is offered at Shanghai Disneyland, and a paid offering is rumored for Walt Disney World."
https://blogmickey.com/2021/07/disn...ree-fastpass-with-paid-disney-premier-access/
"We've learned that, similar to the program at Shanghai Disneyland, Disneyland Paris is planning to replace their free FastPasses with a paid option called Premier Access......Now that Walt Disney World park-goers have been without FastPass+ ...we wonder if a paid option might be coming sooner rather than later."
https://www.wdwinfo.com/news-storie...premier-access-fastpass-is-disney-world-next/

The poster said that they are speculating FPs are going to be attached to a price ...... this is not something they've done.

Paris free FP gone --- Shanghai free FP gone --- ---WDW???
I'm far (so so far) from being the only one who is mentally drawing a line between the loss of free FP at these 2 other parks and the potential for the same at WDW. If you're gonna call me out on making this speculation then you've got your work cut out for you on the internet.... there are LOTS more who are having this same expectation!

Honestly before free FP got the axe in the other 2 locations, I was the one saying, "They'll NEVER do it in WDW!"

Again, I hope I'm wrong (along with all the rest who are thinking the same) and I will be overjoyed to holler from the rooftops, "I WAS WRONG!!"

 

[ThistleMae]

Do you think with the new system you will get/ be able to buy any fast passes before the actual day or does everyone think it will be on the day only purchases

I hope they are not day of, but I'm thinking they will be.

 

[5DisneyNuts]

I can think of 3, *maybe* 4 rides where we’d want a paid option. We have a family of 4, so we’re talking about a cost of $160-$400 based on your numbers, on the high end. Our projected costs for our 2022 trip (8 day mod/value split stay, 7 day park hopper, flights, food, etc) are north of $7k. So for us, that extra $275 (on average), over a week, on our once every 4 year trip…we will happily pay.

We did get great FPs at 60 days out but our family hated being locked in every day of our vacation. And I hated FP refresh. I felt like it was a time suck and a definite fun suck.

I get that our situation isn’t everyone’s, just sharing another perspective. Many of our local friends travel at the same frequency we do, although I have no idea what their budgets or habits are.

Thank you! I appreciate you sharing your experience.

Would that be the case if you had no FP for free? Another words, we've gotten 3 FP at 60 days, are you saying you still want this or are willing to pay for each one as you go day of?

 

[5DisneyNuts]

I agree with some of what you are saying. I've been around a long time and have first hand information on what WDW parks have added charges for. Your examples don't pertain to what I'm saying.

My point is that FP were free and the rumors are that there will be some charge (source Len Testa) and should be considered in any genie app conversation.

Other things have been free and now WDW chooses to charge for. This change however IMO will be a significant charge.

I'm not arguing that. I'm just following the logic.

The poster said that they are speculating FPs are going to be attached to a price, and she (I assume) said that was based on past performance. I'm simply asking what an example of something that was once included and now comes with a charge, because that's what her speculation implies -- they've done this before, so it's reasonable to assume they will do it again. But this is not something they've done.

So when you say something like "an extra potential 4-figure cost added to the gate charge," I ask what you base that speculation on. Not history, because charging for what was once free has not been WDW's practice. Perks may go away, but WDW didn't start charging to see the Electric Light Parade. They just got rid of it. They have desert parties fore fireworks but they don't make everyone else wear blindfolds. Charging for what was free is not their pattern, and I'm astounded by ho wmany people keep insisting that it has been.

 

[5DisneyNuts]

@::danielle::
Just curious on what your price point would be? I think this is a valuable conversation. Thks!

 

[cakebaker]

That's an extra $100 for a family of 4 for SDD, another $100 for TSM.

This is what I just can't wrap my head around. I'm a sucker for every add on and upcharge I can get my hands on. After Hours? I'm in. Park Hopper? You bet. How about a dessert buffet? I'll take 2. Fireworks cruise, concierge level, Deluxe or DVC? Yes, please. But the idea that we'd pay $150 for a ride, no matter what the ride, seems absolutely crazy.

Our must rides- Space, Splash, BTMMRR, PPF, SDMT, Slinky, MMRR, FOP, Everest, Safari. Those are just the not leaving until we ride them attractions. That's 10 rides. Even at $10 each, that's $100 x’s our 6 people, $600 total. And then there are a dozen or more rides that we'd presumably be standing in lines for.

I'm just going to have see that happen to believe it. If it does, we're done. While I can pay it, I won't. There's a limit to my obsession and that would be it.

 

[whiporee]

"with the Disney pushing "Premier Access" as a brand across its products, including theme parks, it's reasonable that fans in the United States may now begin to question when some form of Disney Premier Access will come to Walt Disney World"
https://www.themeparkinsider.com/flume/202107/8332/
"Disneyland Paris has just announced that they will be replacing their free FastPass program with a new paid offering – Disney Premier Access. This program is similar to what is offered at Shanghai Disneyland, and a paid offering is rumored for Walt Disney World."
https://blogmickey.com/2021/07/disn...ree-fastpass-with-paid-disney-premier-access/
"We've learned that, similar to the program at Shanghai Disneyland, Disneyland Paris is planning to replace their free FastPasses with a paid option called Premier Access......Now that Walt Disney World park-goers have been without FastPass+ ...we wonder if a paid option might be coming sooner rather than later."
https://www.wdwinfo.com/news-storie...premier-access-fastpass-is-disney-world-next/



Paris free FP gone --- Shanghai free FP gone --- ---WDW???
I'm far (so so far) from being the only one who is mentally drawing a line between the loss of free FP at these 2 other parks and the potential for the same at WDW. If you're gonna call me out on making this speculation then you've got your work cut out for you on the internet.... there are LOTS more who are having this same expectation!

Honestly before free FP got the axe in the other 2 locations, I was the one saying, "They'll NEVER do it in WDW!"

Again, I hope I'm wrong (along with all the rest who are thinking the same) and I will be overjoyed to holler from the rooftops, "I WAS WRONG!!"

That's why I said domestic parks. Each has less than half the attendance of DLR, and even less compared to WDW. You can't really compare them. Shanghai has 1200 hotel rooms; Paris has 5000. WDW has 30,000.

Shanghai and Paris have virtual queues. The domestic parks don't. If they did, they'd serve the same purpose as FPs, wouldn't they? You're in line without having to be in line -- a chance to dramatically cut back on the time you are actually waiting on an attraction.

In addition, their paid options are only for certain rides. They offer two different plans. So for these guys who are so certain it's coming, which was is it gonna be?

And you're quoting guys who are, as I've said many times, guessing. People are going to believe what they are going to believe, but there's still no evidence -- no surveys, no leaked market studies, no leaked stock price analysis, nothing -- beyond a bunch of people guessing. And they guess the worst because, frankly, it gets them clicks for their pages. Then their guesses turn into message board speculation, and then it becomes message board narrative so well-intentioned people can then say that Disney all the times takes things at the domestic parks that were free and stars charging for them.