WhatsApp Finally Tests Message Scheduling Feature on Android Beta

WhatsApp users can soon schedule messages up to two weeks in advance.

The messaging application owned by Meta has introduced a message scheduling feature within its Android beta program, according to findings by WABetaInfo. While rival platform Telegram offered scheduled messaging starting in 2019, the new functionality on WhatsApp allows users to queue text messages, links, photos, and videos for automatic delivery at a predetermined date and time. Users can plan important reminders during the day or prepare birthday celebrations for loved ones two weeks in advance. The capability permits planning anywhere from at least 10 minutes after the current time up to a maximum of 14 days later. Users can also add captions to photos in the drawing and editing screen before scheduling them, though the current version permits only a single media file per scheduled transmission rather than multiple files.

How WhatsApp Scheduled Messaging Operates

To use the function, a user writes a text or link and holds down the classic send button instead of pressing it directly. A menu then opens at the bottom of the screen, allowing the user to select a precise delivery time and date. Users can also access a dedicated section to manage scheduled messages before they are sent. Once configured, messages transmit automatically when the designated moment arrives, even if the device remains offline or the application stays closed.

The scheduling window provides a flexible range. The system extends beyond plain text to include single media files such as photos and videos, along with web links, and functions within group chats. All scheduled communications retain end-to-end encryption.

Contrasting Beta Features in Android Development

While the messaging platform tests delayed delivery, DonanımHaber reported that WhatsApp is simultaneously evaluating a separate Contacts tab inside the Android application's bottom menu. This distinct interface displays online users with a green indicator dot, syncs birthday reminders automatically from the device phonebook using cake emojis and a “Today is birthday” phrase, includes a search bar to find people by name, phone number, or username, lets users sort lists alphabetically or by activity to place online contacts at the top, and offers options to invite unregistered contacts to the service. Unlike the scheduling update, the new Contacts tab respects existing user privacy settings, keeping users who hide their last-seen status from appearing as active.

Wider Rollout Precedes Public Release

A wider rollout to additional accounts is expected in the coming weeks ahead of a public release. Recipients do not need to use beta versions of the application to successfully receive scheduled messages sent from testing accounts. Unregistered users can be invited directly through the new tab, though the company has not yet confirmed when the new Contacts tab will arrive in the stable version.