ICS File Type

- The quick facts

What are ICS files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening an ICS file or just wondering what they contain? We explain what these files are used for and show you software that we know can open or otherwise handle your files.

What is an ICS file?

Files that contain the .ics file extension are created by a variety of calendar and scheduling applications. These calendar files allow different users to store calendar information within a text file. That text file can then be stored on the Internet and can be synchronized with other users' calendars. A user can stay updated regarding another user's calendar by "subscribing" to that calendar. This tool often helps administrative assistants help manage their executive's schedules and helps project teams stay coordinated.

Some of the applications that use the .ics file extension include Apple's iCalendar, IBM Lotus Notes and Microsoft's Outlook email and calendar application. The Open Source Bedeworks software project has also been reported to support the ICS file format.

How to open ICS files

Important: Different programs may use files with the ICS file extension for different purposes, so unless you are sure which format your ICS file is, you may need to try a few different programs.

While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested 10 different ICS openers which you will find listed below.

Last updated: March 17, 2022

Suggest another file format using extension ICS

While we know of one file format using the .ICS file extension, there may be more. It is widespread that different programs use files with the same file extension for very different types of data. Please let us know if you are aware of a different kind of .ICS file.

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of ICS files. Remember, different programs may use ICS files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.