Google Calendar Tames the RSVP Email Beast

Google Calendar users have long been plagued by an influx of RSVP emails and automatic responses after setting up meetings. To alleviate this issue, Google is introducing a new feature that allows meeting organizers or their delegates to choose whether they receive these emails.

The new 'Get an email when guests respond' setting will be on by default for all users. However, those who want to avoid receiving RSVP emails and automatic responses can simply click the box to uncheck it. When this option is unchecked, meeting organizers will not receive RSVP emails from attendees using Google Calendar or third-party tools, nor will they receive any email auto-replies.

This feature could be particularly beneficial for large meetings or recurring events. However, Google notes that if you're setting up a recurring event, the new setting can only be applied to the full series.

The rollout of this feature began on September 10 for scheduled release users and will take around 1-3 days to become visible. For rapid release users, including those with Google Workspace accounts, the rollout started today and may take up to 15 days to gain visibility.