WhatsApp’s New Feature Schedules Messages Up to Two Weeks in Advance
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia — WhatsApp is preparing a message-scheduling feature that will allow users to send text, links, photos and videos automatically at a specified time. Users will be able to schedule messages up to two weeks before they are sent.
According to WABetaInfo, the feature is being tested with some WhatsApp beta users on Android through version 2.26.40.7, available on the Google Play Store. WhatsApp developed the feature over several months before beginning its beta rollout.
To schedule a message, users simply type it in the chat box, then press and hold the send button. If the feature is available, WhatsApp will display a menu for choosing the sending date and time.
WhatsApp will then send the message automatically at the scheduled time, even if the app is closed or the device is offline.
The feature also supports photos and videos. Users can select media from their gallery, then press and hold the send button to choose when it should be sent.
However, WhatsApp allows only one photo or video in each scheduled message. Users can also edit a photo or add a caption before scheduling it.
The earliest available sending time is 10 minutes after a message is scheduled. Users can choose a time up to two weeks ahead, for example to prepare a birthday greeting in advance.
Users can also manage scheduled messages in a dedicated section within the chat information. This menu lets them view and delete messages before they are sent.
If a scheduled message is deleted, the recipient will not be notified and will not be able to see that the message had been scheduled.
The feature also works in group chats. However, the message will be sent only to members who had already joined the group when the sender scheduled it. Members who join later will not receive it.
WhatsApp is currently rolling out the feature gradually to Android beta users. Those who have not received it will need to wait until WhatsApp expands access over the coming weeks.
Recipients can still receive scheduled messages from other users even if their own accounts do not yet have the ability to schedule messages.