Forget Sending Messages Manually! WhatsApp's Upcoming Feature Could Do It for You

WhatsApp appears to be working on a long-requested scheduled messaging feature for iPhone users. The upcoming tool could allow users to compose messages in advance and choose a specific date and time for delivery, making it easier to send reminders, birthday wishes, announcements, and other time-sensitive messages.

According to a report by WABetaInfo, the feature is still under development and has not yet reached beta testers. However, recent findings suggest Meta is actively refining the experience before a wider rollout.

WhatsApp Scheduled Messages: How It May Work

The report suggests users could access the scheduling option by pressing and holding the send button within a chat. Once activated, they would be able to select a future date and time for the message to be delivered automatically.

Expected capabilities include:

• Schedule messages in advance
• Support for both individual and group chats
• Automatic delivery at the chosen time
• Option to delete scheduled messages before they are sent
• No notification to recipients if a scheduled message is removed
• Dedicated Section for Scheduled Messages

WhatsApp is reportedly developing a dedicated area where users can manage all pending scheduled messages before they are delivered.

The platform may also introduce visual indicators within chats to show when a message has been scheduled for future delivery. This could make it easier for users to keep track of messages waiting to be sent.

Group Chat Support Also in Development

While earlier versions of the feature were believed to focus on one-to-one conversations, WhatsApp now appears to be expanding support to group chats as well.

However, there may be one limitation. Scheduled messages are expected to be delivered only to users who are already members of the group when the message is created. Members who join later may not receive previously scheduled messages.

Timing Limits and Availability

Current development indicates users may be able to schedule messages:

• As early as 10 minutes after creation
• Up to two weeks in advance

There is currently no official launch date for the feature. However, the report claims it is likely to arrive for beta testers first before expanding to all users.

Why This Feature Matters

WhatsApp already offers event-based call scheduling, but it lacks a native text message scheduling option. If introduced, the feature could be particularly useful for professionals, businesses, and users communicating across different time zones, eliminating the need for third-party workarounds and manual reminders.