What is a VCS File?
A VCS file (with the .vcs extension) is a calendar file in
the vCalendar 1.0 format. It was the original calendar data interchange
format before the modern ICS (iCalendar 2.0) standard.
VCS files are still used by:
- Legacy calendar applications
- Older phone sync software
- Some enterprise scheduling systems
- Older email clients and PIM software
Good to Know
While VCS is an older format, the iCalendar Chrome extension fully supports it. You don't need to convert VCS to ICS - just drag and drop your VCS file and import directly.
VCS vs ICS: Key Differences
| Feature | VCS (vCalendar 1.0) | ICS (iCalendar 2.0) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | IMC (1996) | RFC 5545 (Current) |
| Timezone Support | Limited | Full (VTIMEZONE) |
| Recurrence | Basic | Advanced (RRULE) |
| Attendees/RSVP | Limited | Full support |
| Current Usage | Legacy systems | Universal standard |
How to Import VCS to Google Calendar
Install the Extension
Get the free iCalendar extension from the Chrome Web Store.
Click the Extension Icon
Open the extension popup from your Chrome toolbar.
Drag & Drop Your VCS File
Drop your .vcs file onto the popup. It's parsed automatically.
Select Calendar & Import
Choose your target calendar and click "Add to Calendar."
Why Google Calendar Struggles with VCS Files
Google Calendar's native import feature is optimized for modern ICS files and has limited support for the older VCS format. Common issues include:
- VCS files may not be recognized at all
- Date/time parsing errors due to format differences
- Missing event details after import
- Encoding issues with special characters
The iCalendar Chrome extension solves these problems with a dedicated VCS parser that properly handles the vCalendar 1.0 format, ensuring your events import correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a VCS file?
A VCS file is a calendar file in the vCalendar 1.0 format. It's an older standard that was used before the modern ICS (iCalendar 2.0) format. VCS files have the .vcs extension and contain calendar event data.
Can Google Calendar open VCS files?
Google Calendar has limited native support for VCS files. The easiest way to import VCS files to Google Calendar is using the iCalendar Chrome extension, which fully supports the vCalendar format.
How do I convert VCS to ICS?
You don't need to convert VCS to ICS. The iCalendar extension can import VCS files directly to Google Calendar. Just drag and drop your VCS file and it will be parsed and imported automatically.
Why do I have a VCS file instead of ICS?
VCS files typically come from older systems, legacy calendar applications, or older phone/PIM synchronization software. If you're exporting from a modern app, you'll usually get ICS. Either format works with the iCalendar extension.
Is the VCS import feature free?
Yes! The iCalendar Chrome extension is completely free and supports both VCS and ICS files. There are no subscriptions, premium tiers, or hidden costs.
Related Guides
What is iCalendar? Complete Guide · Import ICS to Google Calendar · Free ICS File Importer
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