As technology and innovation evolve, so does the need for companies like Disney to keep up.
Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom
We’re not just talking about theme park technology, either. More and more travel restrictions are being lifted, and with that comes even more travel across the globe. So, how are airports (and the travel industry in general) implementing exciting new technology, and what could that look like for the future of travel through the Orlando International Airport and even Disney World? Some travel trends are just plain cool — and we’re taking a look at the trends we wish would come to Central Florida.
Jet-setters, frequent travelers, and Disney guests alike know just how common it is for technology and innovation to change from one trip to the next.
Over in EPCOT, brand-new ride technology is about to be officially unveiled at Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is also going through quite a transformation, with an all-new Terminal C set to open later this fall. But, there are some travel trends that we wish would make their way to MCO and Disney World…
Orlando International Airport
…so let’s check them out!
Sleep Pods & Nap Rooms
If you’ve traveled through any major airport within the last few years, you might have seen little egg-shaped pods strewn about throughout a terminal or two. Sleep pods, like GoSleep, can be found in several major airports across the globe, and feature lounge beds in a lockable pod that can be rented typically by the hour or even overnight.
©GoSleep
Sound a little claustrophobic to you? If you’re traveling through Philadelphia, Atlanta, Dallas, or Charlotte airports, you can rent Minute Suites. These little retreats are popping up in major cities — think of them like small, temporary hotel rooms.
Most Minute Suites include a day bed or twin bed, desk, chair, and television so you can lull yourself to sleep. Not only that, but in some locations you can also rent shower time. The average price of a Minute Suite is about $40 per hour.
Imagine being able to take a break in the middle of your Disney park day without having to go all the way back to your hotel?! We seriously wish Disney would jump on the sleep pod/nap room train — for both adults and kiddos alike!
Check out 8 things you can do in Disney World at midnight.
Autonomous Tech & Robots
Heathrow International Airport has implemented automatic tuggers for airplane taxiing, eliminating the need for a person to drive the taxi vehicle to the terminal gate — could we see this tech ever come to Orlando Airport or even Disney World? We’re imagining driverless parking trams or maybe even buses!
Disney World parking trams
As part of MCO’s Terminal C expansion, the airport will also be home to a brand-new luggage system that could help travelers get to their bags faster. Using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, bags will be tagged and able to be located at all times.
©Click Orlando 6
Ever had a robot deliver your room service? It’s not as uncommon as you think — hotels across the globe are utilizing room service and concierge robots, including over at Universal Studios Orlando! While they might not be practical, they are super cool and we wish Disney World would bring them to the resorts.
Click here for a FIRST LOOK at Orlando Airport’s Terminal C
Voice Search & Voice Control
“Alexa, book my Lightning Lane passes for me.” Okay, we might not be able to actually do this just YET — but we are getting pretty close! Smart devices are the assistants of the future, and many devices are already able to book travel, dining, and even doctor’s appointments for people.
Hey, Disney!
Disney is getting in on the smart device game with “Hey, Disney,” a “custom voice assistance” that works with Amazon Alexa. The service will be able to assist Disney guests with room amenities, guest services, planning, weather, and more.
It can even tell jokes!
“Hey, Disney!” is scheduled to roll out in Disney Resort hotels later this year!
Click here to see “Hey, Disney!” in action!
No matter what new technology may come to the travel industry, most of us can probably agree that change is imminent and constant — so for the latest Disney and travel news, be sure to stay tuned to DFB!
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That photo of all the yellow pods reminds me of a certain sequence from Monsters, Inc in the door warehouse. That goodness I always take a carry-on when flying to Disney World!
I hope the luggage system is more successful than the one they tried to introduce with the opening of Denver International Airport a couple decades ago – that one went down in flames and had to be retrofitted to a more traditional model.
Do you know when we are to receive our “hey disney” from the D23 event? I completely forgot until I saw this article. I know we are supposed to receive an email. But when?
I have been begging for sleep pods at Disney for years. My husband thinks I am crazy. Instead I fall asleep at air conditioned shows.