Overview
- WABetaInfo and multiple outlets reported on October 12 that WhatsApp has enabled a scheduled-messages feature in Android beta version 2.26.40.7 for a limited group of testers.
- Users in the beta can schedule text, links and one photo or one video per scheduled send by long-pressing the send button and choosing a date and time from a picker.
- Scheduled messages are stored in a chat’s info screen where they can be reviewed, edited or deleted before delivery, and they will send automatically at the chosen time even if the sender’s device is offline or the app is closed.
- The beta enforces limits: a minimum 10-minute lead time, a maximum two-week advance window, one media item per scheduled message, and group messages go only to members present when the message was scheduled.
- Meta has not announced a public launch date and is reportedly working on iPhone support while the feature remains in testing so its behavior and limits could change before general release.