I’m not a fan of the Disneyland Resort’s FastPass system. I say this because I’ve become so accustomed to using the MyMagic+ system in place at Walt Disney World in Florida. I’m also a technology guy so being able to book, change and redeem FastPasses all electronically is definitely my preferred way to go! Well it looks like Disneyland Resort is sort of stepping into modern times…for a price. I guess that’s the theme of this week’s Disney news! Hit the jump for details on Disneyland Resort’s new MaxPass system!

For those not in the know, Disneyland Resort (so both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure) use the original paper-based FastPass system. You head over to the FastPass distribution area, put your ticket in the machine and get a paper FastPass with your return times printed on it. My biggest complaint with this system is the fact that you have to head over to the attraction to get the FastPass. This is fine for something like Indiana Jones since you’re most likely going to pass that attraction multiple times a day. For something like Space Mountain you’ll be heading to the far end of the park only to turn around after getting that FastPass.

The new system, which Disney has dubbed MaxPass, will be allow guests to book and redeem FastPasses using their mobile phone. It will also include unlimited downloads of PhotoPass photos. Disney MaxPass is launching with a price of $10 per day. Disney calls this an introductory price so I’m sure they’re just testing the waters. I wouldn’t be surprised if it goes up. Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders have the options to buy MaxPass on a daily or annual basis. No exact launch date but it will be available sometime later this year. Disney also announced that the Matterhorn Bobsleds and Toy Story Midway Mania are getting FastPasses.

While I’m excited for Disneyland Resort’s FastPass system to get a modern upgrade I don’t like that Disney is charging for it. I can understand paying for the PhotoPass service, but I haven’t used PhotoPass at Disneyland while I use it quite heavily at Walt Disney World. Disney should at least throw in electronic FastPasses for hotel guests and maybe those with Park Hopper tickets. There is still a question of whether you’ll be able to book a FastPass for Disneyland and California Adventure at the same time. I’m sure I’ll break down at get it for at least one day on future trips but I wish it were included!

Thoughts?

Will you purchase the new Disney MaxPass service? Have you used the PhotoPass service in the parks? Leave your comments below or as always, feel free to reach out on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook!