WhatsApp Android Beta Tests Message Scheduling Feature
WhatsApp is developing a message scheduling feature for Android users, allowing messages to be queued in advance for automated delivery.
How WhatsApp Message Scheduling Works
The new scheduling tool lets users line up text, web links, photos, videos, and documents for later transmission. To access the option within a chat window, users press and hold the send button to open a menu where they select a specific date and time for delivery.
The scheduling window allows messages to be set from a minimum of ten minutes up to a maximum of two weeks in advance. The system dispatches the message automatically at the chosen time, even if the application is closed or the smartphone is offline. Scheduled messages retain end-to-end encryption throughout the waiting period.
Media Limits and Group Chat Rules
When attaching media files, users can select content directly from the gallery or the internal drawing editor, but each scheduled message is limited to a single media object. Management of queued messages takes place inside the chat information section under a dedicated category. If a user deletes a scheduled message before its delivery time, the intended recipient receives no notification.
Group chats carry a specific rule for the feature: a scheduled message will be delivered only to members who belonged to the group when the message was originally scheduled. Recipients do not need the scheduling feature enabled on their own devices to receive the timed message.
Android Beta Versions and Release Timeline
Discrepancies exist across reports regarding the exact software versions containing the tool. wabetainfo.com reported on October 11, 2026, that the feature works with WhatsApp Beta for Android version 2.26.40.7, while engadget.com noted it appeared in build number 2.26.8.11 on October 12, 2026.
A definitive rollout date for all users remains unconfirmed. news9live.com reported on October 12, 2026, that no timeline has been set for a final release in markets like India, whereas etvbharat.com and techbriefly.com indicated a release could happen in the near future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which file types can be scheduled for delivery?
Users can schedule simple text, web links, photos, videos, and documents, though each scheduled message is restricted to a single media object, as reported by borncity.com.
Do recipients need the scheduling feature to view the message?
No, the receiving party does not need to have the scheduling function installed or enabled to get the timed message, according to borncity.com.
What happens to a scheduled message if the phone goes offline?
The application sends the message automatically at the designated time even if the smartphone is offline or the app is closed, as detailed by borncity.com.
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