WhatsApp is rolling out a long-awaited scheduling feature that lets users queue text messages, photos and videos for automatic delivery at a chosen date and time. The feature is currently live for select Android beta testers and is expected to reach more users in the coming weeks.
According to WABetaInfo, the update is available in WhatsApp Beta for Android version 2.26.40.7. It works across both individual and group chats and remains compatible with WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption.
The feature supports a scheduling window of as little as 10 minutes in advance or as far out as two weeks. Delivery is automatic, even if the sender’s device is offline when the scheduled time arrives.
How to schedule a message
To access the scheduling interface, users type their message in a chat and then press and hold the send button. This surfaces the scheduling controls, where a specific date and time can be selected.
For media, the same press-and-hold approach applies. Only one photo or video can be scheduled at a time.
A dedicated section within chat settings will allow users to view, manage or delete scheduled messages before they go out. If a scheduled message is deleted, the intended recipient receives no notification.
What group chat members need to know
The scheduling feature extends to group chats, but with one condition worth noting. Only members who are part of the group at the time the message is scheduled will receive it.
Anyone added to the group after a message is scheduled will not see it. There is no retroactive delivery for new members.
The rollout is currently limited to select Android beta testers. WhatsApp is expected to expand availability to more users over the coming weeks, moving one of its most requested features closer to a wider release.
