WhatsApp is reportedly testing a scheduled messages feature for Android that would allow users to write messages in advance and choose when they should be sent. The feature is currently available to some beta testers and could roll out to more users in the coming weeks. According to a report by Gadgets 360, citing feature tracker WABetaInfo, the option has been spotted in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.40.7. It could work in both individual and group chats, allowing users to schedule messages without having to send them manually at the selected time.
How Will WhatsApp Scheduled Messages Work?
Users who have access to the feature may be able to type a message in a chat and press and hold the send button. WhatsApp is then expected to show an option to select the date and time for delivery. The feature reportedly supports text messages, links, photos and videos. Users may be able to schedule messages from as early as 10 minutes ahead to up to two weeks in advance.
Once the selected time arrives, WhatsApp could send the message automatically, even if the app is closed or the sender's phone is offline. This could be useful for people who want to send birthday wishes at midnight, share reminders or prepare work messages ahead of time.
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WhatsApp May Let Users Manage Scheduled Messages
WhatsApp is also reportedly developing a dedicated section in the chat information screen where users can view and delete messages before they are sent. This would allow users to check their scheduled messages and cancel those they no longer want to send. If a scheduled message is deleted before delivery, the recipient is not expected to receive a notification about its cancellation.
The feature may also support group chats. However, there could be a limitation: only people who were members of a group when the message was scheduled may receive it. People who join the group later may not receive that scheduled message.
When Will WhatsApp Release The Feature?
The scheduled messages feature is currently being tested with a limited number of Android beta users. WhatsApp has not announced an official release date for all users. As with other beta features, its design and availability could change before a wider rollout. Users who do not see the option in their app may have to wait until WhatsApp expands access.
Scheduled messaging could make WhatsApp more convenient for people who often forget to send important messages at the right time. Instead of relying on reminders or waiting until a particular hour, users could prepare a message in advance and let the app handle delivery. However, the feature is still in limited testing, and its availability for regular users remains unconfirmed.
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