Yes they did. I don't remember exactly when I got there but it was sometime around 7.15 and the couple in front of me got scanned into the Ellipse as did another group in the other line. I didn't but the arena was still fairly empty and I was able to get 6 people back from the Edge's side of the Ellipse with a good view.
when i saw them in June in boston i didnt even bother with the wristband and got into the ellipse around 7:30pm-
just wanted to make sure i could still do that tonight.