magic bands

[PETE FROM NYC]

How long do the bands last before the battery dies?

I got ours 9/14.

[Fangorn]

There are 2 RFID components in the Magic Bands. One is passive, the other is active. Only the active component uses the battery. The active component is used for ride videos and anything else where you do not actually touch the band to a Mickey Head - so not a whole lot at the moment.

The passive RFID chip should last virtually forever barring any damage to it.

The battery for the active component was originally projected to last about 3 years. There are some reports of bands lasting longer than that, as well as some not making it past 2 years. I believe Disney is still saying about 3 years. Your mileage may vary.

Steve

[PopPhan]

Along the same (general) vein....

Is there a way to test the MagicBand, without going to a park, to see if the battery still has life left in it?

I now have 3 or 4 of them (each in a different color) and would hate to take any of them with me if they are not going to function in all situations.