Apple has officially stepped into the event planning space with Apple Invites, an integrated app designed for event coordination within the Apple ecosystem. At first glance, the app seems like a solid choice for Apple users, boasting the signature Apple polish and seamless iOS integration.

But does it actually hold up as a full-fledged event planning tool? Or is it just another Apple-exclusive feature that locks users into their ecosystem? After taking a closer look, it becomes clear that Apple Invites might not be the game-changer event planners were hoping for—especially when compared to alternatives.

Cross-Platform Accessibility

Apple Invites, like most Apple apps, is designed primarily for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users. If your friends, family, or colleagues use Android, Windows or don't want to install an app, they may be out of luck. Apple lets you invite your iCloud contacts or share link but it ends there. There is no way for me to select all of my contacts who are not on iPhones and send text messages automatically.

Subscription Fees

One major downside of Apple Invites is that it forces their users into an iCloud+ subscription to send out event invites. This means that users must pay for Apple’s cloud storage just to invite guests, adding an unnecessary cost barrier. Subscription fees should enhance an app without preventing its use.

Invitation Customization

Apple Invites provides basic invite customization. Allowing the user to set basic background images, enter event description, location and time. They seem to be on the right track with this but it feels like there should be more customization options. It would be cool if you could make custom RSVP responses.

RSVP Management

Apple did a decent job with RSVP management. Users respond with a simple 3 choice "Going" "Not Going" or "Maybe" option and the host will receive notifications upon RSVP response. However there is a lack of notifications on the attendees side. If the event is updated as it stands now no notifications are sent to the attendees

Collaboration

There seems to be a lack of collaboration utilities. There is no way for hosts to share control over the event with another host. An option like this would make planning large scale events way easier. It seems like Apple Invites is more geared towards small scale events. Tiny group gatherings and one off parties. There is also no way for attendees to post and comment on the event. This would make coordinating things difficult and have users default to texting.

Other Options Exist!

Apple Invites may be an ok option for Apple users, but for those who need flexibility, customization, and robust event planning tools, dateit is the clear winner.

We believe flexibility is key in creating an effective event management platform. dateit supports the following features.

  • Full cross platform support between IOS, Android and Web users
  • Unlimited Free invites. No hidden subscription fees to invite users.
  • App and Email notifications are sent on RSVP or event description changes.
  • Users can post and comment on an event. Allowing attendees to chat about the event or ask questions. Forget about those annoying group texts!
  • Collaborative free photo gallery. Hosts and guests can upload images to an event. Imagine having a wedding and everyone can just upload their photos.
  • Unique invite customizations. Background images, emoji wallpapers and custom RSVP button text.
  • Robust collaboration through our Co-Host feature!
  • Granular control over your event. Hide guest lists, disable comments and disable photo upload for greater privacy.

Whether you're hosting a birthday party, baby shower, wedding, or a corporate event, dateit provides a powerful and inclusive platform for bringing people together—no matter what device they use.

Try dateit today and experience next-level event planning!