In a Power On newsletter on Bloomberg, analyst Mark Gurman revealed that Apple is preparing to launch a new event management and invitation service based on its iCloud cloud platform.
The feature, currently being tested internally under the name “Confetti,” is expected to launch as soon as this week. According to the description, the service will allow users to invite others to parties and gatherings.
Gurman mentioned that Apple has been planning to improve the Calendar app for several years. While “Confetti” won’t be integrated directly into the Calendar app, it marks the beginning of these planned changes.
“Later this week, Apple plans to introduce a new iCloud-based service internally codenamed ‘Confetti.’ True to its festive name, this service provides a new way to invite people to parties, meetups, and meetings.
For years, Apple has sought ways to improve the Calendar app, and this may be the start of a larger effort,” Gurman said.
“Confetti” is part of the iOS 18.3 update that was released widely at the end of January. This means the service could be activated at any time.
This isn’t the first time rumors about Apple’s appointment service have surfaced. In early January, 9to5Mac discovered code related to an “Invites” app in the iOS 18.3 beta.
“The app is designed to help users organize live meetings and events. While Apple’s Calendar app can serve this purpose, the Invites app may offer additional features,” the site reported.
The code shows that the app integrates with iCloud and a new component in iOS 18 called GroupKit, which allows for the management of group databases. While this component has existed since iOS 18.0, Apple has not yet utilized it.
Basically, the app will display a list of events, invitees, and RSVP confirmations. Thanks to the iCloud integration, users will be able to send invitations to contacts in their address book and extract appointments from other apps.
Of course, users will have to wait until the official service launch to fully understand its features and capabilities.
