The next generation of the Wizarding World interactive wands is now here, with new app integration and haptic feedback. This article will cover the new wands, how they differ from the first generation of wands, how to use the new app integration, and the new spells around the parks.

Something Old, Something New

The first generation of interactive wands debuted in mid-2014 when Diagon Alley opened in Universal Studios Florida. These wands are denoted by having a small reflective dome at the tip of the wand that is used to “cast” spells in the Wizarding World lands. If you purchased an interactive wand before March 1, 2025, you have a first-generation interactive wand.  The first-generation wand is still available at the time of writing for $68.90 with tax. Old wands still work at all the existing wand locations, there is no current option to upgrade the

Universal Orlando revealed a second generation of interactive wands for sale on March 1, 2025. This next generation of wand is more expensive ($90.53 with tax) but packs new connective technology, lights, and haptics to deliver a more expansive spell casting experience. Out of the box, the new wands rumble and light up at the tip when a spell is successfully cast, which is pretty cool. But even more features are unlocked when the wand is synced up to the Universal Orlando app. Unlike the first generation wands, this second generation requires one AAAA battery to operate (good news: the battery is included).

Universal Orlando App Integration

Guests can synch their second-generation wands to the Universal Orlando app to unlock new features:

⭐️ Spell Maps – provides a map of all spell casting locations. Second-generation wands show if you have completed the spell before.
⭐️ Customized Wizard Profile – Choose a name, Hogwarts House, petronas, and personal icon to track yourself on the daily leaderboards.
⭐️ Daily House Cup – A parkwide competition between houses to earn the most points by completing Adventures and spells.
⭐️ Adventures – A sequence of spell locations located throughout the land that follow a common theme. Adventures are the only way to experience some of the newest spells.

To reach the spell map and interactive wand app functions, go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley pages from the main page (left photo) or icon on the digital map. From there, scroll down and tap on the Universal Play – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter button (middle photo). From here, a splash page will explain the features of the new wands. Tap Play Now to launch the spell map.

A pop-up will appear, asking you to synch your second-generation wand with your device. The quickest way to do this is by scanning the barcode on the back of your box. If you do not have your box, you can tap the wand’s side to pair it to your device. Upon pairing, complete your wizard profile before using the rest of the gameplay features.

The home page is a map of all the spell locations in Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Epic Universe. Tap on a spell icon to reveal the spells at that location. Some of these spells might be exclusive to the second-generation wands, like the Dueling Tent in Hogsmeade. You can also select Adventures, options, your wizard level, and the daily Hogwarts House Cup standings from the homepage.

Adventures & New Spell Locations

Universal expanded their spell locations throughout the Wizarding World with new spells. Diagon Alley has three new spell casting locations in Knockturn Alley, including a Patronus spell that mimics your chosen Patronus on the app, fighting off some creepy spiders and controlling the weather. Over in Hogsmeade, there’s a new spell location at the post office, and a new tent by Hogwarts Castle is used by the Dueling Club to test their spell casting abilities. These new spell locations, and some additional new spells at old locations, are available through the new wands and the Universal Orlando app.

Adventures is the true new dark horse addition with the new wands. These groups of spells revolve around a central activity or theme and take you through the land casting spells. Some Adventures end in a special spell or spell location that is only active once you complete the Adventure. Be warned: unlike normal spells, some Adventures spells have a failure condition.

Adventuring with Annie made a great, comprehensive video of the new wands. She came away with glowing praise for the new experiences. Hedgehog’s Corner, when reviewing the wands, said the new Adventures are comprehensive enough that going around completing Adventures could last a whole day!

TouringPlans Touring Tips

• Second-generation wands are $90.53 with tax. Save money by splitting a wand between party members.
• Spell locations are the least crowded within the first and last hour the park is open. Save spellcasting till the end of the night before leaving the park after completing all major attractions.
• Starting and following the Adventures in the Universal Orlando app to see all the spell locations and effects – simply performing the spell as listed at the spell location will not start an Adventure.
• All maps still come with a free, high card stock paper with a map listing spell locations. Store the maps in a safe location and use the app for spell locations. Use the maps as a second souvenir in a frame or a “new” toy after you get home. At 87 bucks, you gotta get all you can out of that purchase!
• Simple, smaller motions are better when casting spells.
• If you are having an issue with your wand, see a Team Member stationed at the wand spots for assistance.

Are you excited for the new second generation of wands at Universal Orlando? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!