WhatsApp is developing a new
Scheduled Messages feature that will allow users to
write messages ahead of time and have them sent automatically at a later date and time. This was recently spotted in the
latest iOS beta (version 26.7.10.72) distributed via Appleās TestFlight program, hinting that the feature is under active development and likely to roll out to users in the future.
šĀ What āScheduled Messagesā Actually MeansThe Scheduled Messages feature will let users:
- āļø Compose a message now and set a specific date and time for it to be delivered automatically.
- š
Have these messages remain queued until the scheduled moment, without needing manual intervention.
- šļø See or manage pending messages from a dedicated section inside each chatās info screen.
- šļø Edit or delete scheduled messages before they are sent ā and if removed, the recipient wonāt be notified, since the message is cancelled before delivery.
This makes messaging more flexible and reliable, especially for important communications that need perfect timing.
šÆĀ Why This Feature MattersWhatsAppās scheduled messaging tackles a longāstanding user need. Currently, users who want to send messages at a later time must rely on
thirdāparty tools or builtāin shortcuts (like Appleās Shortcuts on iPhone) ā both of which are
workarounds that donāt offer full integration or convenience.With a native option:
- Users can plan ahead without leaving the app.
- Thereās no need for external tools with elevated permissions or automation hacks.
- Scheduling becomes a standard part of the chat experience.
Essentially, whatsapp is giving users more control over when their messages are delivered, boosting convenience for birthdays, reminders, travel plans, work alerts, and more.
š©Ā How It Could Work in PracticeWhile whatsapp hasnāt officially shown the live interdata-face yet, reports indicate that:Youāll
select a message and choose āScheduleā from the message options.A
date & time picker will let you choose when you want it sent.The message will stay in a
pending section inside chat info until delivery.Before sending, you can
edit or delete it at any time.
š¤Ā Supported Chat TypesThe feature is expected to work for:
- š§āš¤āš§ Individual oneātoāone chats
- š„ Group chats
This means you could schedule:
- birthday greetings to a friend,
- reminders in a family group,
- or an announcement to a work chat ā all automatically.
ā³Ā Availability & StatusSo far, Scheduled Messages is
still under development and
not yet available in public releases of WhatsApp. Itās currently visible only in beta builds, and whatsapp has not confirmed a rollout timeline or launch date for the general public.The rollout is likely to occur in stages ā first appearing in beta, then in a stable version once testing is complete. Itās also currently spotted first on
iOS beta, but may come to Android later as well.
šĀ How It Compares to Current WorkaroundsRight now:
- iPhone users can try scheduling through Apple Shortcuts, which isnāt built into the app itself.
- Some thirdāparty services and browser extensions let you schedule messages from outside whatsapp, but these often involve extra steps and privacy tradeāoffs.
The new native scheduling tool aims to replace these workarounds with a
secure, easyātoāuse, and official solution.
š§ Ā Why Itās Important for Everyday UsersThe Scheduled Messages feature isnāt just a
niceātoāhave ā many users frequently forget to send important messages on time. Whether itās
birthday wishes,
meeting reminders, or
work notifications, having this built into whatsapp ensures:
- š Messages go out exactly when intended
- š± You donāt need to stay awake or manually send them
- š© Communicating across time zones becomes easier
In short, it enhances the utility of whatsapp and saves users from missing key moments.
šĀ SummaryWhatsAppās upcoming Scheduled Messages feature will let users:
- plan and automate message delivery
- manage pending messages with a dedicated interdata-face
- edit or delete scheduled sends before theyāre delivered
The tool is currently in beta testing and undergoing development, with broader release expected once final testing is complete. This marks one of the most useful message upgrades in WhatsAppās recent roadmap ā giving users more flexibility and control over their communication timing.
Ā Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the readerās own risk.