How to Try Out WhatsApp’s New Scheduled Messages Feature in Advance
All messaging apps should allow you to schedule messages by default . Sometimes you need to send a message to a friend or family member, but you don’t want them to receive it right away. Perhaps they’re in a different time zone, and it’s too early or late to politely text them; perhaps they’re in an important meeting, and you don’t want their phone to beep or vibrate, distracting them. In any case, scheduling a message can save you: you’ll remember to text them later, and they’ll receive it when you think it’s time. A win-win situation for everyone.
Of course, this feature is n’t yet standard across all apps. Some apps have it, like Telegram or iMessage , and it’s a great addition when needed. Others, like Messenger or WhatsApp, sorely miss it. While Meta doesn’t seem to have any plans to add scheduled messages to Messenger, it seems WhatsApp users will soon receive this update. In fact, you can try it out today.
Scheduling messages in WhatsApp
As reported by WABetaInfo , WhatsApp is currently testing a new feature that allows users to schedule text messages, photos, and videos for later. Currently, the feature even works offline, so your scheduled messages will be sent even if you don’t have Wi-Fi or cellular service. Furthermore, this feature isn’t limited to individual chats, as is often the case with new messaging features. You can schedule messages in both individual and group chats, and all scheduled messages are still protected with end-to-end encryption.
Meta is currently testing the scheduling feature in WhatsApp only for Android. The good news for iPhone users is that testing is quite limited: the feature is only available to select users. While this doesn’t guarantee its availability, you should sign up for the WhatsApp beta if you want a chance to try it out early. To get started , head to the official WhatsApp beta page on the Google Play Store . Make sure you’re logged in with your Google account, then sign up for the beta. Return to the official WhatsApp page on the Play Store , and you should see a new update. That’s the beta.
After the WhatsApp beta launches, you can check for this feature by creating a new message in any chat, then long-pressing the “Send” button. If the feature is available, WhatsApp will display a pop-up window allowing you to select a date and time to schedule the message. (You can choose to send the message in 10 minutes or in two weeks.) When you’re ready to schedule, tap the green “Schedule” button at the bottom of the menu. Then tap the contact or group name at the top of this window, and then tap “Schedule Messages” to manage all scheduled messages in that chat.