Apple launches new app for creating custom invitations

Apple has announced the launch of Apple Invites, a new app designed to facilitate the creation of custom invitations for various events, available exclusively for iPhone users.

The Apple Invites app allows users to design and distribute invitations, manage RSVPs, and share media through Shared Albums while integrating Apple Music playlists. The app is currently available for download from the App Store and can also be accessed via the web.

Brent Chiu-Watson, Senior Director of Worldwide Product Marketing for Apps and iCloud at Apple, stated, "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. Apple Invites brings together capabilities our users already know and love across iPhone, iCloud, and Apple Music, making it easy to plan special events."

To begin using Apple Invites, users are provided with the option to select an image either from their personal photo library or from a collection of themed backgrounds within the app. There are features that provide guests with event directions via Maps and weather forecasts for the event day.

Participants can contribute to a Shared Album dedicated to the event, which helps in capturing memorable moments. For Apple Music subscribers, the app allows the creation of collaborative playlists that guests can access directly through Apple Invites.

Apple Intelligence is incorporated to assist users in generating customised invitation designs effortlessly. Using concepts from their photo library, users have access to an Image Playground that aids in creating unique images.

The Writing Tools feature is available to help users craft appropriate messages for their invitations.

Event hosts maintain complete control over their invitation processes. They can manage RSVPs, share invitations via links, and decide which details are visible on the invitation preview. Guests can view and respond without requiring an iCloud+ subscription or Apple Account.

Additionally, users who subscribe to iCloud+ are offered various premium features, including increased storage for their media, along with enhanced privacy tools such as Private Relay and Hide My Email. HomeKit Secure Video and custom email domains are also part of the subscription benefits, alongside Family Sharing options.

iCloud+ subscription details indicate that the service begins at a cost of NZD $1.69, inclusive of GST.

Currently, Apple Invites requires iPhone models running iOS 18 or later to operate and can be accessed online via icloud.com/invites. The company notes that some features might not be available in specific regions or languages.

The addition of Apple Invites is part of Apple's continued efforts to expand their service offerings in integration with existing platforms like iCloud and Apple Music.