WhatsApp is rolling out a scheduled messaging feature for Android beta testers under version 2.26.40.7, as reported by WABetaInfo. The update allows users to queue text, links, photos, and videos for automatic delivery up to two weeks in advance, even if the sending device is offline.
How WhatsApp Scheduled Messaging Works on Android Devices
The messaging platform developed the scheduling tool over several months before releasing it to limited testing on the Google Play Store, according to WABetaInfo. Users compose a message in the chat text input and then tap and hold the send button to open a scheduling interface. Gizbot reported that the tool supports text messages, links, photos, videos, and documents.
Messages can be scheduled between 10 minutes and two weeks in advance. Once configured, WhatsApp delivers the content automatically at the selected time, even if the application is closed or the phone remains offline.
Managing and Editing Queued Messages Before Delivery
Users can view, modify, or delete pending messages through a dedicated section located within the chat information screen. When a sender cancels a scheduled transmission, the recipient receives no notification and cannot see that a message was ever scheduled. Gizbot noted that this native capability reduces the need for third-party automation apps that require supplementary permissions.
For media sharing, users select a photo or video via the gallery picker, then press and hold the send button. The current workflow handles a single media item at a time, and users can add captions or edits through the drawing editor prior to scheduling.
Compatibility Rules for Group Chats and Media Workflows
The scheduling feature functions in both individual and group chats, though group transmissions carry a specific restriction. WhatsApp delivers a scheduled group message exclusively to members who belonged to the group at the moment the sender scheduled it. Individuals who join the group afterward do not receive the content.
Gizbot outlined potential use cases for the tool, including birthday greetings, work updates, meeting reminders, and advance customer communications for businesses. While currently restricted to Android beta testers via the Google Play beta program, the feature is expected to reach a broader audience over the coming weeks ahead of a potential stable release.
Frequently Asked Questions About WhatsApp Scheduling
Can recipients tell if a WhatsApp message was scheduled?
No. Recipients only receive the message at the designated delivery time and cannot see that it was queued in advance, even if the sender deletes it beforehand.
What is the maximum time a message can be delayed?
Users can schedule messages up to two weeks in advance, with a minimum delay window of 10 minutes from the current time.
Are multiple photos supported in a single scheduled message?
The current Android beta implementation supports only one media item at a time when utilizing the gallery picker workflow.
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