Universal unveils new features of wearable ahead of Volcano Bay opening

Universal unveils new features of wearable ahead of Volcano Bay opening

Park promises there will be “no more standing in long lines to experience an attraction”. Continue reading

Universal Parks & Resorts promises there will be “no more standing in long lines to experience an attraction” with the introduction of its wearable technology at its new water theme park, Universal’s Volcano Bay.

Guests at the water theme park, set to open May 25, will “experience an entirely new level of freedom and fun”, according to Universal.

They will be issued with a Tapu Tapu wearable wristband, which can be used to tap on to an attraction and set a time at which to come back and ride it without waiting in a queue, and be alerted when the ride is ready for them.

The park promises that guests will change their “queue” experience into a float down a peaceful, winding river or a quick bite to eat.

A spokesman said: “There will be no more standing in long lines to experience an attraction. No more carrying wallets, cash or credit cards throughout the park.  No more fumbling for a locker key.”

Universal asked guests for information about what they like and don’t like about theme parks and found queuing one of the biggest bugbears.

The wristbands will also trigger special effects like controlling streams of water spurting from whales in Tot Tiki Reef, shooting water cannons at guests snaking down Kopiko Wai Winding River and illuminating images in the volcano’s hidden caves.

Universal has this week announced more TapuTapu features, including:

  • TapTu Pay: Guests can make purchases throughout the entire park with their TapuTapu wearable, eliminating the need for cash, credit cards or a wallet.
  • TapTu Snap/My Universal Photo Access:  Guests can take advantage of special interactive photo opportunities and selfie-spots throughout the park as well as photo opportunities on Volcano Bay’s attractions.  Their wearable will automatically sync those photos to their account so that guests can view, share and purchase them at their convenience.
  • Locker Access: After renting their lockers, guests will be able to access them with a touch of their TapuTapu wearable.