Apple's paid event-planning app copies everything from a free application
What's the story
Apple has launched a new app, 'Invites,' to simplify the process of planning events.
The app, which is available for iPhone users, lets iCloud subscribers create and send invites for different events.
The recipients can reply to these invites even if they are not on an Apple device or do not have an iCloud subscription.
Notably, Apple Invites has been slammed for allegedly copying free event planning app, Partiful.
App features
'Invites' offers comprehensive event management tools
The 'Invites' app gives hosts a place to manage their events, send out invitations through a link, track responses, and personalize invitation details.
It even lets guests add to a Shared Album with photos and videos from the event.
While creating an invitation on the app, hosts can use pictures from their library or pick from the backgrounds available on the app.
Advanced tools
It integrates maps and weather features
The 'Invites' app comes with an Image Playground feature that allows hosts to generate images using AI on supported devices.
It also integrates with Maps and Weather to offer directions and forecast details for events.
For Apple Music subscribers, there's an added perk of being able to include a collaborative playlist that guests can access directly from the app.
User requirements
'Invites' usage and comparison with Partiful
The 'Invites' app is exclusive to iCloud Plus subscribers, starting at $0.99/month.
The app works on iPhones with iOS 18 or newer.
It is similar to Partiful, a popular event invitation service launched in 2020, famous for its easy-to-use interface for RSVP'ing and viewing event details.
However, unlike Partiful, which is free and aimed at Gen Z users primarily, Apple's new app needs iCloud Plus subscription.
User control
The app enhances user privacy and control
The 'Invites' app also integrates Apple Intelligence's Writing Tools for drafting invitations.
It gives guests the option to manage how their information is displayed to others, and offers choices to leave or report events.
Brent Chiu-Watson, Apple's Senior Director of Worldwide Product Marketing for Apps and iCloud, said, "With Apple Invites, an event comes to life from the moment the invitation is created."