This is sad news for families. Our first trip using DME was in 2007 and we've used it ever since, even when my wife and I flew down just the two of us last year. I understand COVID has hit the bottom line in a significant way for Disney. That said, now it seems Disney World is becoming a giant theme park not dissimilar to Universal. Yes, it's always been a theme park, but part of the "magic" of visiting was saying goodbye to your luggage at the airport, arriving in Orlando and seeing them greet you at their Magical Express area and whisk you away to your resort with zero stress. You were entering "their world". We always used Disney transportation. Could it take longer? Yes, but again...it's vacation and I don't want to have to worry about a car or an Uber. The vacation began with receiving your tags at home along with the magic bands. Once at the airport, bye bye to the luggage only to see it again in the room sometime later after arrival. Off to the parks! Now, it will be an Uber, Taxi, or Rental Car which is not attractive in any way, wait at the hotel for storage...ugh. Keep in mind, I thought Disney was all about "experience" and viewing the vacation through the lens of the guest.
Since 2007, a lot has changed and not all for the better. No night time parade at MK anymore. In order to watch the fireworks/castle projection you have to nail a spot early as now the castle is part of the show or pay to have a good spot. Planning can be more difficult with the app as you have to know exactly where you plan to be on which day. Most recently, no more complimentary magic bands. We'll be back and will stay on property because that's still part of the magic, but instead of taking away, they need to add back...add the nighttime parade...immerse the guests so they want to stay on property. 30-minute early entry is a joke.