.ics file can’t import to Calendar

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I am having the same issue but I think it is due to exploit protection. Basically I think it is a security feature. I got it to work by importing the file into my calendar on my macbook. Usually security features are more lax on macos.

While that does work, it is INCREDIBLY dumb we have to do that in the first place. So clearly Apple has the UI to import it, they just chose not to. Wonderful /s.

In iOS 18, Apple made it impossible to open and save the .ics files (iCal files) directly on the iPhones.

These files are often received from dentists, companies, and many other organizations, and contain important appointment information. Despite Google and Microsoft being able to process these files without any issues, Apple has chosen not to support this.

For sure Apple has not correctly tested the support of this .ics basic calendar feature in its latest release.

This lack of Apple IOS support makes calendar management, a core functionality of the iPhone, difficult and frustrating for many users. Many users believe that Apple should revisit and resolve this basic functionality in a future update.

I finally figured out how to do this. Just takes two steps.

1. Save the .ics to Files.
2. In the Files app tap and hold the .ics file to grab it, then while still holding the file with one finger, switch to the Calendar app and drop the .ics file there.

It’s bizarre though that there’s no way to do this directly from the share sheet.

Just hit this myself, Apple please allow importing of .ics files on iOS again!!