Meta is adding a long-requested feature to WhatsApp: scheduled messages. The update, first spotted in a recent TestFlight beta, will allow users to compose a message and set a specific date and time for it to be automatically delivered, according to reports from 9to5Mac and Jang.
The feature addresses a significant gap in WhatsApp’s functionality, as users have previously relied on workarounds, such as Apple’s Shortcuts app, or third-party applications to schedule messages. Telegram and iMessage have offered similar capabilities for some time. The development was initially reported by WABetaInfo, which shared a screenshot of the Group Info interface showing a “Scheduled Messages” menu item.
Currently in development, the scheduled message feature will be available for both personal and group chats. Users will be able to view a list of pending scheduled messages, according to Jang. It remains unclear whether WhatsApp will incorporate features like Telegram’s “Repeat” option, which allows for recurring messages.
Zapia, a free AI assistant, currently offers a workaround for scheduling WhatsApp messages on both iPhone and Android. Users download the Zapia app, link their WhatsApp account, and then schedule messages directly from the chat using natural language prompts, such as “I want to schedule a message for tomorrow at 9 am.” Zapia’s system sends the message without identifying it as scheduled, presenting it as a naturally timed communication.
Meta has not yet announced an official launch timeline for the native scheduled messages feature. Once development is complete, the feature will be rolled out to select beta testers for feedback before a wider release, WABetaInfo reported.
