Fantastical RSVP Feature

app icon for Fantastical, the calendar app for macOS, iOS, and iPadOS.

Fantastical recently released a new feature called RSVP that lets you set a meeting and send out a link where people can RSVP their attendance. As the meeting organizer, this gives you a list of attendees and an easy way to contact them. I feel partially responsible for this new addition to my favorite calendar app because I’ve been needling Team Fantastical about adding something like this since I opened the MacSparky Labs, where Zoom events take place on a regular basis.

Here’s a video showing the RSVP feature.

Mac Power Users 756: Exploring NotePlan with David Roth

David Roth joins Stephen and me on this episode of Mac Power Users to cover NotePlan, an application that combines tasks, events, and notes in some really interesting ways. We discuss how to be more productive using its unique features, and compare it with some other applications.

This episode of Mac Power Users is sponsored by:

  • Ecamm: Powerful live streaming platform for Mac. Get 30% off now.
  • Squarespace: Save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code MPU.
  • Xojo: Create native cross-platform apps. Use code MPU24 for 15% off any license.

Whither Apple Calendar?

I have noted that Apple continues to make progress on its productivity application suite. Apple Notes is no longer a joke; it is a powerful tool that many people are using effectively. Reminders is also on an upswing. While certainly not a tier-one task manager, it has most of the features that people are looking for and continues to make yearly improvements.

Apple’s Calendar app is the exception, however. There’s been a lot of evolution in how we manage calendars, and Calendar has yet to keep up with any of it. While the application is acceptable for keeping track of dental and other appointments, even its touted Reminders integration (introduced in macOS Sequoia) is half-baked. A powerful calendar app can make a huge difference in our productivity if harnessed correctly. The problem with Calendar is that it doesn’t have any of the tools necessary to do so. Moreover, from the outside, it looks like Apple has no intention of ever adding those features.

Focused 209: A System for Writing, with Bob Doto

Writer Bob Doto joins Mike and me on this episode of Focused to discuss creative systems, connecting ideas, and why you really should care about Zettelkasten.

This episode of Focused is sponsored by:

  • Zocdoc: Find the right doctor, right now with Zocdoc. Sign up for free.
  • Vitally: A new era for customer success productivity. Get a free pair of AirPods Pro when you book a qualified meeting. 
  • Indeed: Join more than 3.5 million businesses worldwide using Indeed to hire great talent fast.

The Apple Ring and Health Tracking

Some rumors are circulating about Apple developing a fitness ring. I don’t know if it’s true, but there is a compelling case for a lighter fitness tracking device, whether it’s a ring or a lightweight bracelet. Because a bracelet would compete with the Apple Watch, it seems more likely to be a ring.

Just a few weeks ago, Apple’s Health VP emphasized the importance of obtaining fitness tracking information while sleeping. Many people wear their Apple Watch to bed, but not everyone does (I try to, but sometimes struggle). Even if only worn at night, a ring could address this issue.