WhatsApp May Soon Let You Write Now, Send Later
WhatsApp may soon let you write a message now and have it send later. The option was spotted in an early test version of WhatsApp for Android, version 2.26.8.11, now being tried with a small group of testers. Wider release is expected in the coming weeks. Engadget
You schedule by pressing and holding the send button. A box then opens where you pick the day and time. You can set it from 10 minutes ahead up to two weeks ahead.
There will be a special list where you can see messages that are waiting to send. It works for private chats and group chats.
You can schedule text, links, photos and videos. They stay private with end-to-end encryption, which means only you and the person getting the message can read it. They will send on time even if your phone is off or offline, like a post office holding a sealed envelope until the delivery date.
A second early Android version, 2.26.40.7 from Google Play, is described as rolling out scheduled messages for chats and groups. WABetaInfo Work on the same option for iPhones is also underway, according to earlier test reports. WABetaInfo WhatsApp is separately testing scheduled channel updates. WABetaInfo
Telegram has let people schedule messages since 2019. In WhatsApp, you can already schedule voice and video calls. You do that by tapping the + button in the Calls tab and choosing 'Schedule call', then inviting a person or group to join.
The broader context here is a shift from chat that needs a quick reply to messaging you can time to suit the other person. The 10-minute wait helps stop accidents and mix-ups with edits or deletes. Two weeks covers common needs like birthdays, time-zone differences and regular check-ins, without turning WhatsApp into a long-term reminder app.
In my view, this small change will help a lot in daily life. Anyone who has family or coworkers in another time zone knows the issue. You remember something during your day, but you do not want to wake them at 3 a.m. Scheduling inside the app removes the need for drafts, outside tools or reminders to send later. It makes it easier to be considerate, and it keeps staying in touch simple.
