An `.ics` file is a plain-text iCalendar file. It can contain one event or an entire schedule, including dates, times, locations, notes, reminders and recurrence rules.
What does ICS mean?
ICS is the common file extension for the iCalendar data format. It is designed so different calendar apps can exchange event information without using the same account or proprietary system.
What can an ICS file contain?
A file can include event titles, start and end times, time zones, locations, notes, alarms and repeating-event rules. A meeting invitation may contain one event; a course, sports league or conference file can contain many.
ICS file import vs calendar subscription
Importing copies the events currently inside a file. A subscription follows a calendar URL and checks for later changes. Use an import for a fixed schedule and a subscription when the publisher will update the calendar over time.
Are ICS files safe to open?
Review files from unfamiliar sources before adding them. Calendar events can include links, locations and notes supplied by the sender. Check the event range and destination calendar before importing a large file.
Open an ICS file on iPhone
ICSKit lets you select, inspect and import calendar files directly from Files.
Download ICSKit ↗