Image: Shutterstock
WhatsApp is developing scheduled messages for iPhone, spotted in an iOS TestFlight beta. Users will pick a send time and manage queued texts.
It’s about time. After years of users setting reminders in their heads, WhatsApp is finally building a native way to schedule messages.
According to WABetaInfo, the feature is now in development and was spotted in the latest iOS TestFlight beta, version 26.7.10.72. In its report, WABetaInfo revealed that Meta is preparing a built-in scheduling tool that will allow users to compose a message and choose a specific date and time for it to be sent automatically.
The feature is not yet live for testers.
As WABetaInfo notes, the functionality is “currently in development” and “will be available in a future update.” A screenshot shared by the publication shows a new “Scheduled Messages” option inside the chat info section, suggesting users will be able to manage upcoming messages from a dedicated area.
Once available, users will be able to type a message, pick a date and time, and let WhatsApp send it automatically.
WABetaInfo explains that a scheduled message will remain queued until the selected time arrives. When that moment comes, the message will be delivered automatically without requiring further action.
The report also states that scheduled messages will appear in a dedicated section within the chat info screen. From there, users can view how many messages are pending and manage them. Importantly, deleting a scheduled message before it is sent will not notify the recipient, since the message is removed before delivery.
The feature is expected to support both one-on-one chats and group conversations. That could make it useful for birthday greetings, reminders, announcements, and group updates. At the moment, there is no indication that Channels will support scheduled posts.
There is no official launch date yet. The feature is still in early development. As WABetaInfo reports, “once development is complete, the feature will be rolled out to select beta testers, who can provide initial feedback and reports based on their experience,” before a broader release.
Also read: WhatsApp recently added one-tap security settings that bundle multiple privacy protections into a single toggle.
Aminu Abdullahi is a B2C and B2B technology and finance writer with more than six years of experience covering enterprise IT, cybersecurity, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, fintech, business software, and emerging technologies. His work has appeared in publications including TechRepublic, eWEEK, Channel Insider, Geekflare, Enterprise Networking Planet, eSecurity Planet, CIO Insight, and Webopedia. With a technical background in computer science, he specializes in translating complex technology topics into clear, accessible content for business leaders and decision-makers.
