WhatsApp Expands Scheduled Messages Testing to iOS

WhatsApp is expanding its scheduled messages feature to more beta testers, including selected iPhone users. The feature was previously spotted in development and recently started appearing for some Android beta users. Now, WhatsApp is testing the same functionality on iOS, giving users the option to prepare messages and send them automatically at a chosen time.

According to reports published on October 22, 2026, the feature is rolling out to selected users running WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.42.10.19 through Apple's TestFlight program. The rollout is gradual, so the option may not be available to every beta tester yet.

How to Schedule Messages on WhatsApp

The scheduled messages feature is designed to make messaging more convenient. Users can write a message in advance and select the date and time when they want it delivered.

To schedule a message, open a chat and type your text. Press and hold the send button to open the scheduling options. Select your preferred date and time, then confirm the schedule using the green confirmation button.

WhatsApp currently supports scheduling messages from 10 minutes in advance up to two weeks ahead. Once scheduled, a message is intended to be sent automatically at the selected time, even if the sender's device is offline.

WhatsApp Scheduled Messages Support Photos and Videos

The new feature is not limited to text messages. Users can also schedule links, photos and videos, making it useful for personal conversations and business communication.

For media messages, users can schedule one photo or video per message by pressing and holding the send button in the drawing editor.

This functionality could help users prepare important updates, share content at specific times and manage their conversations more efficiently.

Users Can Delete Scheduled Messages Before Delivery

WhatsApp is also introducing a dedicated section for scheduled messages within the chat information screen. This section will allow users to view their pending messages and delete them before they are sent.

If a scheduled message is deleted, the recipient will not receive a notification about its removal. This gives users more control over messages they have prepared but no longer want to send.

Scheduled messages are also designed to retain WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption, helping protect the privacy of conversations.

How Scheduled Messages Work in WhatsApp Groups

The feature follows a specific rule for group conversations. A scheduled message will be delivered to people who were members of the group when the message was scheduled.

People who join the group afterward will not receive that particular message. This is an important detail for users who plan announcements, reminders or other information for group members.

When Will WhatsApp Scheduled Messages Be Available to Everyone?

WhatsApp has not confirmed an official release date for the scheduled messages feature. For now, access remains limited to selected beta testers on iOS, while the company is also testing the feature on Android.

The gradual rollout suggests that additional testing may be needed before a wider release. Users who cannot see the scheduling option will need to wait until the feature becomes available to their accounts.

Updating WhatsApp alone may not provide immediate access, as beta features are often introduced gradually.

Final Thoughts

The scheduled messages feature could make WhatsApp more useful for people who want to plan conversations, send reminders, manage business messages or prepare group announcements in advance.

With support for text, links, photos and videos, the feature offers greater flexibility for everyday communication. However, its public release date remains unconfirmed, and users will need to wait for WhatsApp to expand access beyond beta testing

FAQs :

1. What are scheduled messages on WhatsApp?

Scheduled messages allow users to write a message in advance and choose a specific date and time for WhatsApp to send it automatically.

2. Is WhatsApp testing scheduled messages on iPhone?

Yes, WhatsApp is rolling out the feature to selected iOS beta testers through TestFlight. It is not yet available to all iPhone users.

3. How far in advance can you schedule a WhatsApp message?

According to current reports, users can schedule a message from 10 minutes ahead up to two weeks in advance.

4. Can you schedule photos and videos on WhatsApp?

Yes, the feature supports photos and videos, along with text messages and links. However, only one photo or video can be scheduled per message.

5. Will WhatsApp send scheduled messages if my phone is offline?

The feature is designed to deliver scheduled messages at the selected time even when the sender's device is offline.

6. Can I delete a scheduled WhatsApp message?

Yes, users can delete a scheduled message before it is sent. The recipient will not receive a notification when the scheduled message is deleted.

7. When will WhatsApp scheduled messages be available to everyone?

WhatsApp has not announced an official public release date. The feature is still being tested with selected beta users on iOS and Android.

8. Are WhatsApp scheduled messages end-to-end encrypted?

According to reports, scheduled messages support end-to-end encryption, helping protect the privacy of conversations.

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