# init() Creates a new group to which you can assign block objects. ``` init() ``` ## Return Value The newly created group. In Objective-C returns `NULL` on failure. ## Discussion This function creates a new group with which block objects can be associated (by using the [`dispatch_group_async`](/documentation/Dispatch/dispatch_group_async) function). The dispatch group maintains a count of its outstanding associated tasks, incrementing the count when a new task is associated and decrementing it when a task completes. Functions such as [`dispatch_group_notify`](/documentation/Dispatch/dispatch_group_notify) and [`dispatch_group_wait`](/documentation/Dispatch/dispatch_group_wait) use that count to allow your application to determine when all tasks associated with the group have completed. At that time, your application can take any appropriate action. --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)