iCalendar
iCalendar (often called iCal) is a standard file format (RFC 5545) used for exchanging calendar and scheduling information between applications and systems. It defines a text-based format for representing events, appointments, tasks, and other time-related data, enabling interoperability across different calendar software like Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, and Microsoft Outlook. The format uses .ics file extensions and supports features such as recurring events, time zones, and attendee management.
Developers should learn iCalendar when building applications that involve scheduling, event management, or calendar integration, such as booking systems, meeting planners, or productivity tools. It is essential for ensuring data portability and compatibility across platforms, allowing users to import/export events seamlessly between services. Use cases include generating event invites, syncing calendars across devices, or automating calendar updates in web or mobile apps.