WhatsApp appears to be preparing a long-awaited update that could make message planning much easier. A built-in scheduling feature has been spotted in recent beta versions of the app, suggesting that users may soon be able to set messages in advance and have them delivered automatically at a chosen time.
For years, people have relied on workarounds or external apps to schedule messages. Now, WhatsApp seems ready to introduce an official solution directly within the platform.
What Exactly Is Changing?
According to reports from WABetaInfo, traces of the new feature were discovered in the iOS beta version 26.7.10.72, which is currently being tested via Apple’s TestFlight program.
Although the tool is not fully active yet, preview screenshots reveal how it may work:
- A new “Scheduled Messages” section appears within chat settings.
- Users can type their message as usual.
- They can then choose a specific date and time for delivery.
- The app will automatically send the message at the selected time.
Importantly, this functionality is expected to work for both individual chats and group conversations.
Since the feature is still under development, beta users cannot use it completely. For now, it appears as a preview element rather than a working tool.
Why This Feature Matters
Scheduling messages might sound simple, but it can be extremely useful in everyday life.
Personal Use
- Sending birthday wishes exactly at midnight
- Planning festival greetings in advance
- Setting reminders for family members
Professional Use
- Sending work updates at a specific time
- Sharing important announcements with teams
- Managing communication across different time zones
Currently, iPhone users sometimes rely on automation tools such as Apple Shortcuts to schedule messages. However, setting up automation is not always straightforward.
Android users often turn to third-party apps for scheduling, but these tools typically require additional permissions. That can raise privacy and security concerns.
A built-in option inside WhatsApp would eliminate the need for external apps, making the process more secure and convenient.
How It Compares With Other Platforms
WhatsApp is not the first messaging platform to explore message scheduling.
For example:
- Telegram already allows users to schedule messages within chats.
- Apple introduced a “Send Later” feature in the iOS 18 Messages app.
Given the demand from WhatsApp users worldwide, it was only a matter of time before a similar feature appeared here as well.
Managing Scheduled Messages
Based on early previews, users may be able to:
- View all pending scheduled messages in one place
- Edit or delete messages before they are sent
- Cancel a scheduled message without notifying recipients
If a message is removed before delivery, the recipient will not receive any alert about the cancellation. This adds an extra layer of control for users.
Development Status and Expected Rollout
At the moment, the feature is still under active development. There is no confirmed launch date, and WhatsApp has not made an official announcement regarding public availability.
It is currently visible only in select iOS beta builds, but it is reasonable to expect that Android support will follow in future updates once testing is complete.
As with many beta discoveries, the final version may look slightly different when officially released.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming Scheduled Messages feature could significantly improve how people use WhatsApp. By allowing users to set messages in advance, the platform would help avoid missed greetings, forgotten reminders, and poorly timed work updates.
More importantly, bringing this feature directly into the app removes the need for third-party automation tools, strengthening user privacy and simplifying the experience.
While the rollout timeline remains uncertain, this update clearly shows that WhatsApp continues to evolve based on user feedback. For now, users will need to wait for an official confirmation before the feature becomes widely available.
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