How to use Apple’s new ‘Invites’ App?

Apple has recently launched Invites, a new application designed to simplify the creation of personalized event invitations on iPhones and the web. This app allows users to design and share invitations, manage RSVPs, contribute to shared albums, and even curate soundtracks for their events.

Getting Started with Apple Invites

To begin creating invitations, an iCloud+ subscription is required, available for a nominal fee of $0.99 per month. However, anyone can respond to an invitation, regardless of whether they have an Apple account or device.

Creating an Event Invitation

You can initiate an event either through the Invites app on your iPhone or via iCloud.com, with both methods offering a similar process.

Initiate Event Creation

Within the app, tap the plus sign in the upper-right corner. On the web, select "New Event" in the upper-right corner.

Add a Background

Tap "Add Background" and select an image from your photo library or take a new photo. Apple also provides a variety of background options. For users with iPhone 15 Pro or later, the Image Playground feature, powered by Apple Intelligence, can generate unique images.

Specify Location

Designate a location by tapping "Location," searching for a suggested place, or manually entering a name, such as "Emily’s House." This automatically adds Apple Maps information to the invitation.

Customize Event Details

Enter the event name by tapping "Event Title" and selecting a font style. Choose the event's start and end times by tapping "Date and Time." Setting a date will automatically include the weather forecast for that day on the invitation. Include an event description using Apple Intelligence’s Writing Tools for assistance if desired.

Note. This feature requires a compatible device. 

Preview

Before sending the invitation, tap "Preview" to see how it will appear to your guests.

Enhancing Invitations with Shared Albums and Playlists

Apple Invites provides options to elevate your invitations.

Shared Album

Create a collaborative "Shared Album" where attendees can contribute photos and videos to preserve and relive memories of the event. Tap the "Create Album" option to set this up. The album will be named after the event by default, but this can be changed.

Collaborative Playlist

Add an event soundtrack by selecting the "Add Playlist" option. Attendees can add songs to the playlist, but an Apple Music subscription is required to create a shared playlist. Like Shared Albums, the playlist will be named after the event by default but can be edited.

Inviting Guests

There are two methods to invite guests to your event.

Share a Public Link

Selecting "Messages" or "Mail" allows you to send a public link directly through those apps. Alternatively, "Share Link" lets you send the invite through any app in your iOS share sheet, and "Copy Link" allows you to paste the invitation link anywhere.

Invite Contacts: Directly Tap "Choose a Guest," search for a name, or select someone from your contact list, and then share the link with them.

Sending Notes

After creating the event and inviting guests, you can share notes to inform invitees of any changes or reminders related to the event. To do this, select your event, tap "Send a Note," write your message, and then tap the "Send Note" button.

Final Wrap-Up

Below is the image illustrating how the invitation will appear to guests.