WhatsApp Introduces Message Scheduling Option – How It Works
WhatsApp is finally rolling out a long-awaited native message scheduling feature, first spotted in iOS beta version 26.7.10.72. This update allows users to draft a message and choose a specific date and time for automatic delivery — directly inside WhatsApp, without needing third-party apps or shortcuts.
The feature works in both personal and group chats, and includes a dedicated management section where users can view, edit, or delete scheduled messages before they are sent.
Here’s your complete ultra-detailed guide to how message scheduling works, how to use it on Samsung and Android devices, what recipients see, and current alternatives before the global rollout completes.
What Is WhatsApp Message Scheduling?
Message scheduling allows you to:
- Draft a message now
- Select a future date and time
- Let WhatsApp send it automatically
This eliminates the need to remember birthdays, meeting reminders, business updates, or timed announcements.
How the Native WhatsApp Scheduling Feature Works
Step 1: Draft the Message
Type your message as usual in a personal or group chat.
Step 2: Select Date & Time
Instead of tapping “Send,” you’ll see a scheduling option that allows you to:
- Choose a specific calendar date
- Select exact delivery time
Step 3: Confirm Scheduling
Once confirmed, the message is stored in a queued state.
Step 4: Automatic Delivery
At the selected time, WhatsApp automatically sends the message.
New Management Section (Key Feature)
A dedicated section in the Chat Info screen allows you to:
- View all scheduled messages
- Edit content before sending
- Change scheduled time
- Delete scheduled messages
This makes it more flexible than current third-party solutions.
Does WhatsApp Tell the Recipient It Was Scheduled?
No.
When the scheduled message is delivered:
- It appears as a normal message
- There is no label indicating it was pre-scheduled
- It looks identical to a real-time sent message
The only condition: Your phone must have internet connectivity at the scheduled time.
Message Scheduling on iPhone (iOS)
Currently:
- Native scheduling spotted in iOS beta (26.7.10.72)
- Rolling out gradually via TestFlight
- Expected public release soon
Before official rollout, iPhone users use:
WhatsApp Schedule Message Shortcut Method
- Open Apple Shortcuts app
- Create personal automation
- Choose time trigger
- Add action “Send Message via WhatsApp”
- Disable “Ask Before Running”
Limitation: Requires iPhone unlocked at scheduled time.
WhatsApp Message Scheduling on Android & Samsung
The native feature is expected to arrive soon on Android devices including Samsung Galaxy phones.
Until rollout:
Option 1: SKEDit App
- Download SKEDit from Play Store
- Connect WhatsApp
- Schedule message
- Enable accessibility permissions
Limitation: App may require phone unlocked.
Option 2: WhatsApp Business Away Messages
Best for small businesses.
Steps:
- Open WhatsApp Business
- Go to Settings → Business Tools
- Select Away Message
- Set schedule time
Note: Works as automated response, not fully customizable timed messages.
How to Schedule WhatsApp Messages on Desktop
As of now:
- WhatsApp Web does not support native scheduling
- You can use browser automation extensions
- Business API users can schedule via backend systems
Once official rollout happens, desktop scheduling may integrate through linked device syncing.
What Is the Purpose of a Message Timer in WhatsApp?
There are two different features people confuse:
1. Scheduled Messages
Send message at future time.
2. Disappearing Messages (Message Timer)
Automatically delete messages after:
- 24 hours
- 7 days
- 90 days
These are separate features.
How to Activate Automatic Messages on WhatsApp
If using WhatsApp Business:
- Open Business Tools
- Enable Greeting Message
- Enable Away Message
- Set custom schedule
This is mainly for automated replies when offline.
WhatsApp Channel Message Scheduling
For WhatsApp Channels:
- Admins may soon schedule broadcast updates
- Useful for announcements
- Not yet globally available
This will benefit media outlets and community managers.
Free WhatsApp Schedule Message Options (Current)
Until global rollout:
| Platform | Method |
|---|---|
| iPhone | Shortcuts Automation |
| Android | SKEDit |
| Business | Away Message Tool |
| Desktop | Browser Automation |
All are free but have limitations.
Benefits of Native WhatsApp Scheduling
1. No Third-Party Apps
Built directly into WhatsApp.
2. Works in Personal & Group Chats
Schedule reminders for family or teams.
3. Business Utility
Plan product launches or announcements.
4. Privacy & Security
No external app permissions required.
Use Cases for Message Scheduling
- Birthday greetings
- Eid / Ramadan wishes
- Meeting reminders
- Business campaign launches
- Midnight anniversary messages
- Study group reminders
- International time zone communication
Important Limitations
- Phone must be connected to internet at scheduled time
- Feature may roll out regionally
- Beta users get access first
- Editing allowed before delivery only
When Will It Be Available Publicly?
Spotted in beta via WABetaInfo, the feature is expected to:
- Roll out to public in phases
- First on iOS
- Then Android & Samsung devices
Exact global rollout date not officially announced.
Final Thoughts
WhatsApp’s native message scheduling feature is a major productivity upgrade in 2026. It eliminates reliance on workarounds like shortcuts or third-party apps and brings professional-level scheduling directly inside personal chats.
Once fully rolled out, users across iPhone, Android, Samsung, and desktop platforms will be able to schedule messages securely, manage them easily, and automate communication more efficiently than ever before.
