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WhatsApp is rolling out a scheduled messages feature to its iOS app, allowing users to send messages automatically at a selected date and time. The feature is designed to help users plan their messages in advance without having to open the app when the scheduled time arrives.
According to WABetaInfo, the feature is available to some beta testers through WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.42.10.19, distributed through TestFlight. The company is gradually expanding access, and more beta testers are expected to receive it over the coming weeks.
WhatsApp Rolls Out Scheduled Messages Feature on iOS Beta – Here’s How to Do it
Users can schedule a message directly from an individual or group chat. After typing a message, they need to tap and hold the send button to open the scheduling screen. They can then select the desired date and time using the available controls.
The screen displays the exact delivery time before users confirm their selection. Once the message is scheduled, WhatsApp shows a confirmation in the chat. However, this confirmation is visible only to the person who scheduled the message.
The feature allows users to schedule messages at least 10 minutes in advance and up to two weeks ahead. This gives them enough flexibility to prepare birthday wishes, important announcements, reminders, and other messages without worrying about sending them manually at the right time.
Support for Photos, Videos, and Links
WhatsApp’s scheduled messaging feature supports more than just text. Users can also schedule photos, videos, and links for later delivery.
To schedule a photo or video, users can tap and hold the send button from the drawing editor screen. However, the feature does not currently allow users to schedule multiple items together. They must create a separate scheduled message for each photo or video they want to send.
The feature also supports end-to-end encryption, helping protect scheduled messages in the same way as other WhatsApp communications.
See Also: WhatsApp Tests New Location Request Feature
Users Can Manage Scheduled Messages
WhatsApp has added a dedicated section for scheduled messages in the chat information screen. In group conversations, users can access this section through the group information screen.
This section allows users to review messages before WhatsApp sends them. If they change their mind or need to make adjustments, they can delete a scheduled message at any time before its delivery.
WhatsApp does not notify recipients when a sender deletes a scheduled message before it is sent. This gives users more control over messages they have planned in advance.
Scheduled Messages Also Work in Group Chats
The feature supports both individual and group conversations. However, WhatsApp applies a specific rule to scheduled messages in groups.
A scheduled message will reach only the members who were part of the group when the sender scheduled it. Anyone who joins the group afterward will not receive that message. This approach ensures that the message does not reach people who were not members of the group when it was originally scheduled.
When Will the Feature Be Available to Everyone?
WhatsApp is currently rolling out scheduled messages to a limited number of iOS beta testers. Users running the compatible beta version may not see the feature immediately because availability depends on the gradual rollout.
More beta testers are expected to receive access over the coming weeks. However, WhatsApp has not announced an official release date for the stable version.
The arrival of scheduled messages on iOS follows the feature’s introduction in the Android beta. Once widely available, it could make WhatsApp more convenient for users who want to plan personal messages, group announcements, and important reminders in advance.
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