Meta’s WhatsApp is testing message scheduling on Android, according to a beta version spotted by WaBetaInfo, with access currently limited to some testers.
The feature appeared in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.8.11. Messages can be scheduled from 10 minutes to two weeks in advance and will be sent at the selected time even if the user’s device is offline.
Users access scheduling by tapping and holding the send button. A dialog opens at the bottom of the screen to let them choose a delivery date and time. A dedicated section lets users manage scheduled messages before they are sent.
Scheduled messages support text, links, photos and videos, and are protected by end-to-end encryption. The feature also works in group chats.
WhatsApp users have long requested scheduling for recurring reminders, managing time zones and handling business communications outside working hours. Rival messaging app Telegram has offered message scheduling since 2019.
The beta feature is expected to reach more accounts in the coming weeks. An official release is expected in the near future, but no release date has been specified.
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