WhatsApp is testing a feature to schedule messages, photos, and videos. This feature will work even when your phone is offline. You can set a time from 10 minutes to two weeks in advance. It's currently available on Android beta.
A very useful feature is coming soon to WhatsApp users. The company is testing a "Scheduled Messages" feature that will allow you to pre-schedule messages, photos, and videos to automatically send at a specific time. Currently, some Android beta users have started receiving this feature. It may reach even more users in the coming weeks.
Messages will be scheduled like this on WhatsApp
According to a report by WABetaInfo, a website that tracks WhatsApp updates, this new feature has been rolled out to some users currently using WhatsApp beta version 2.26.40.7 for Android. This feature allows you to pre-schedule a message by typing it. After typing a message in a personal or group chat, when you press and hold the send button, you'll see a schedule option. You can then select a date and time of your choice. Your message will automatically be sent as soon as the scheduled time arrives.
You can also schedule photos and videos
Reports suggest that in addition to text messages, you'll also be able to schedule links, photos, and videos. However, you'll likely only be able to schedule one photo or video at a time. Before sending a photo, you'll be able to edit it, draw on it, and even write a caption. You can set a time from 10 minutes to two weeks before sending the message. The biggest advantage of this feature is that even if your phone is offline or WhatsApp is closed, the message will still be sent automatically.
Ability to delete scheduled messages
Users will be able to check their scheduled messages before they are sent and even delete them if they wish. A separate section may be provided for this in the chat info screen. The report states that if you delete a scheduled message, the other person will not receive a notification. In the case of group chats, only members who were in the group at the time the message was scheduled will receive the message. New people who join the group later will not see the old scheduled message.
When will everyone get this feature?
This new feature is expected to come with the full security of end-to-end encryption. Currently, this feature is only being tested for select Android beta users through the Google Play Store. While the feature may reach more users in the coming weeks, WhatsApp has not yet announced a firm date for its official launch.
