While it seems that Apple is pretty much solely focused on marketing its AI features over the past year, the Cupertino company does manage to get a bit of pleasant surprises in every now and then. Take for example its new “Apple Invites” feature, which adds a bit of welcome functionality to otherwise mundane features within iOS. Apple specifies that the new feature allows users to easily create and share invitations, add content to shared albums, and even playlists on Apple Music.
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When using Apple Invites, users can select a photo from their library or one from the app’s included array of backgrounds with different themes for specific events and occasions. Apple has also added integration with Apple Maps and Weather for added information on forecasts and directions for the day’s event. Participants to the even can also add their own photos and videos to dedicated shared albums that are included with invites, as well as soundtracks via the Apple Music app. It should be noted though that while the app is free for download, you’ll need to pay for iCloud+ to use the feature, and must have iOS 18 or newer installed on their device.
Hosts are of course able to completely manage their invites with event viewing and management, link sharing, reviewing RSVPs, and specify which details are included in event previews such as addresses and backgrounds. Meanwhile, guests will be able to respond to invites via the app or web (even without iCloud+ or Apple accounts), and attendees can also take control of which personal details are only visible to others; attendees can also leave or report an event at any time.
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Apple adds that the Invites feature will be able to work with AI functions and tools, such as Image Playground and Writing Tools. Brent Chiu-Watson, Apple’s senior director of Worldwide Product Marketing for Apps and iCloud comments:
“With Apple Invites, an event comes to life from the moment the invitation is created, and users can share lasting memories even after they get together,” said Brent Chiu-Watson, Apple’s senior director of Worldwide Product Marketing for Apps and iCloud. “Apple Invites brings together capabilities our users already know and love across iPhone, iCloud, and Apple Music, making it easy to plan special events.”
