Apple has launched its new Invites app, an event-planning service for iPhones that is exclusive to iCloud+ subscribers and taps into the capabilities of its artificial intelligence platform.
The app, which is available on devices running at least the iOS 18 operating system, lets users collaborate on events, from creating invitations to contributing media from Apple's shared albums and music service, the company said on Tuesday.
On Wednesday, Invites vaulted to the top spot of lifestyle apps on the UAE App Store. Its launch was first reported by Bloomberg.
Creating an invitation on the app begins with entering key details, including the event title, location, date and time.
An image can be added by selecting a file from the photo library, if the iPhone being used supports Apple Intelligence, and users can generate a new image based on descriptions. Also, Writing Tools on Apple's generative AI platform can be used to compose details of the invitation.
A shared album and playlist can be created, in which those invited will be able to add images and songs from their own collections in Photos and Apple Music.
The integration of Invites with the Maps and Weather apps will also be able to provide guests with directions to the location and forecasts for the day of the event. There is also an option to inform those invited of how many additional guests they can bring to the event.
Invitees who do not use iPhones or do not have an Apple account will still be able to receive and respond to the invitation.
"Hosts get full control of their invite experience ... attendees control how their details show up to others and have the ability to leave or report an event at any time," Apple said.
Invites is an addition to Apple's stable of AI-backed services, which it stepped up with the introduction of the iPhone 16 series, iOS 18 and Apple Intelligence last September.
With a subscription to iCloud+ required, Invites will be able to contribute to California-based Apple's key services unit, which has been a main driver of revenue, complementing the company's hardware sales.
It is unclear if Apple has plans to launch a basic version of Invites for non-iCloud+ subscribers. Monthly plans for iCloud+ in the UAE start at Dh3.99 for 50GB and top out at Dh239.99 ($65) for 12TB.
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