New Virtual Queue Solution for National Cell Outage

Disney relies heavily on technology to join Virtual Queues, make selections for Genie+, purchase food through Mobile Order, and so much more. Find out how Disney handles this when a massive technical issue affects guests.

National Outage

Disney World will utilize a new virtual queue — Credit: Disney

As many are well aware, select cell phones are facing a major cellular outage this morning. This primarily affects AT&T customers but also affects Verizon and T-Mobile customers who rely on AT&T's network.

AT&T offered a statement "Some of our customers are experiencing wireless service interruptions this morning. We are working urgently to restore service to them. We encourage the use of Wi-Fi calling until service is restored"

Guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort are encouraged to join Disney's complimentary resort-wide Wi-Fi. It is no secret that this complimentary Wi-Fi is not the most reliable, but at this time it is the best solution for guests.

Virtual Queue

One thing Disney loves is a Virtual Queue. This allows guests to join a Virtual Queue for the most popular attractions along with merchandise events as well. Today is the first day of the Disney Princess Half-Marathon Weekend with the opening of the Expo.

Due to the high popularity, a Virtual Queue is used for the first day of the Expo. However, the major cellular outage this morning affected many hoping to join this Virtual Queue.

Thankfully, Disney is offering a solution. As guests arrive at ESPN's Wide World of Sports, signage is displayed for "Virtual Queue Solutions". For guests who are unable to join a Virtual Queue, they can check in with a Cast Member. The Cast Member will scan your MagicBand or ticket and give you a return time.

Disney offers a "Virtual Queue Solution" for guests unable to join this morning's Virtual Queue.

This is not ideal especially as the Virtual Queue estimated wait is close to 4 hours at the time of this writing. However, this is still better than not being able to attend.

What do you think of this Virtual Queue Solution? Do you think a better solution should be in place in case of future outages? Do you think Disney should create a better Virtual Queue system? Share your thoughts with us and share this news with your Disney pals.