Ever wished you could write a WhatsApp message now and have it delivered at the perfect time later? Whether it's a birthday wish at midnight, a business follow-up during working hours, or a reminder to a colleague across time zones, scheduling WhatsApp messages can transform how you communicate. This comprehensive guide covers every method to schedule WhatsApp messages on Android, iPhone, WhatsApp Web, and WhatsApp Business.
Table of Contents
- Why Schedule WhatsApp Messages
- Does WhatsApp Have Built-in Scheduling
- How to Schedule Messages on Android
- How to Schedule Messages on iPhone
- How to Schedule Messages on WhatsApp Web
- WhatsApp Business Auto-Reply Messages
- WhatsApp Business API Scheduling
- Best Apps for Scheduling WhatsApp Messages
- Limitations and Considerations
- Best Practices for Scheduled Messages
- Business Use Cases
- Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Summary
WhatsApp doesn't have a native message scheduling feature. However, you can schedule messages using third-party apps like SKEDit on Android, the Shortcuts app on iPhone, browser extensions like Blueticks on WhatsApp Web, or the auto-reply feature in WhatsApp Business. For advanced business automation, the WhatsApp Business API offers comprehensive scheduling capabilities.
Why Schedule WhatsApp Messages
Before diving into the how-to, understanding why message scheduling matters helps you leverage this capability effectively.
Personal Communication Benefits
Never miss important moments: Schedule birthday wishes, anniversary messages, or holiday greetings to arrive at exactly the right time—even if you're asleep or busy.
Respect time zones: When friends or family live in different time zones, schedule messages to arrive during their waking hours rather than at 3 AM their time.
Plan ahead: Write thoughtful messages when you have time and schedule them for later, ensuring you never forget to follow up or check in.
Business Communication Benefits
Consistent engagement: Maintain regular communication with customers without requiring someone to be online 24/7.
Optimal timing: Send marketing messages, promotions, and updates when your audience is most likely to be active and engaged.
Workflow efficiency: Compose messages in batches during focused work time and have them delivered throughout the day or week.
Global reach: Communicate with customers across time zones at appropriate local times without working around the clock.
Does WhatsApp Have Built-in Scheduling
The straightforward answer is no—WhatsApp does not offer a native message scheduling feature in its standard app. There's no "send later" button or scheduling option built into WhatsApp for Android, iPhone, or the web version.
Why No Native Scheduling?
WhatsApp was designed as a real-time messaging platform. The company has focused on features like end-to-end encryption, voice/video calls, and status updates rather than scheduled messaging. While users have requested this feature for years, it hasn't been implemented in the main app.
The WhatsApp Business Exception
WhatsApp Business offers limited scheduling through its "Away Messages" and "Greeting Messages" features. These aren't true scheduled messages but rather automated responses triggered by specific conditions like business hours or first-time contacts.
Third-Party Solutions
Since WhatsApp lacks native scheduling, users must rely on third-party apps, browser extensions, or workarounds to achieve this functionality. The good news is several reliable solutions exist for every platform.
How to Schedule Messages on Android
Android users have the most options for scheduling WhatsApp messages thanks to the platform's openness to third-party app integrations.
Method 1: Using SKEDit
SKEDit is one of the most popular and reliable apps for scheduling WhatsApp messages on Android.
Step 1: Download SKEDit from the Google Play Store and install it.
Step 2: Open SKEDit and grant the necessary permissions. The app requires Accessibility permissions to interact with WhatsApp—this is essential for the scheduling to work.
Step 3: Tap the plus (+) button to create a new scheduled message.
Step 4: Select WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business as the target app.
Step 5: Choose the schedule type: Contacts, Broadcast List, or Group.
Step 6: Select the recipient(s) for your message.
Step 7: Enter your message text. You can also attach images, documents, or other files.
Step 8: Set the date and time for delivery.
Step 9: Tap the checkmark to confirm and schedule your message.
Optional settings: You can enable "Ask me before sending" for a confirmation prompt, or set up recurring messages for regular reminders.
Method 2: Using Wasavi
Wasavi is another Android app that offers WhatsApp message scheduling with a clean interface.
Download Wasavi from the Play Store and follow similar steps: grant permissions, select contact, compose message, choose date/time, and schedule. The app also supports attachments and recurring messages.
Important Android Notes
Accessibility permissions: These apps require accessibility access to function. While this raises security considerations, reputable apps use this permission solely for automation purposes.
Phone must stay on: Your phone needs to remain powered on and connected to the internet for scheduled messages to send. If your phone is off at the scheduled time, the message won't be delivered.
Battery optimization: Disable battery optimization for the scheduling app to prevent Android from killing it in the background.
How to Schedule Messages on iPhone
iOS is more restrictive than Android, making message scheduling slightly more complex. However, the built-in Shortcuts app provides a workable solution.
Using the Shortcuts App
Apple's Shortcuts app allows you to create automations that can send WhatsApp messages at specified times.
Step 1: Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone. If you don't have it, download it from the App Store.
Step 2: Tap the "Automation" tab at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3: Tap the plus (+) icon in the top-right corner to create a new automation.
Step 4: Select "Time of Day" as your trigger.
Step 5: Set the specific time and date when you want the message sent. You can also choose to repeat daily, weekly, or monthly.
Step 6: Tap "Next" to proceed.
Step 7: Tap "Add Action" and search for "WhatsApp."
Step 8: Select "Send Message via WhatsApp" from the available actions.
Step 9: Enter your message text in the message field.
Step 10: Tap "Recipients" and select the contact(s) who should receive the message.
Step 11: Tap "Next" and then "Done" to save the automation.
iOS Limitations
Confirmation required: By default, iOS Shortcuts requires you to confirm the action before sending. You'll receive a notification at the scheduled time asking you to approve the message. To make it fully automatic, toggle off "Ask Before Running" in the automation settings.
Phone must be unlocked: Some automations may require your phone to be unlocked to execute properly.
Less flexible: Compared to dedicated Android apps, the Shortcuts approach offers fewer features like attachments or recurring message management.
Alternative: Third-Party Apps
Some iOS apps claim to offer WhatsApp scheduling, but most work by setting reminders rather than actually sending messages automatically. Due to iOS restrictions, truly automated sending is limited compared to Android.
How to Schedule Messages on WhatsApp Web
If you primarily use WhatsApp on your computer, browser extensions provide scheduling capabilities for WhatsApp Web.
Using Blueticks Extension
Blueticks is a popular Chrome extension that adds scheduling functionality to WhatsApp Web.
Step 1: Install the Blueticks extension from the Chrome Web Store.
Step 2: Create a Blueticks account or sign in with Google.
Step 3: Open WhatsApp Web (web.whatsapp.com) in Chrome and scan the QR code with your phone.
Step 4: Navigate to the chat where you want to schedule a message.
Step 5: Look for the Blueticks scheduling icon near the message input box (usually a clock icon).
Step 6: Click the icon to open the scheduling window.
Step 7: Type your message in the scheduling popup.
Step 8: Select the date and time for delivery.
Step 9: Click "Schedule" to confirm.
Using Other Extensions
WAScheduler: Another Chrome extension offering similar functionality with additional features like message templates.
Scheduller for WhatsApp: Provides basic scheduling with a simple interface.
Desktop Requirements
Browser must stay open: WhatsApp Web must remain open in your browser for scheduled messages to send. If you close the tab or browser, the message won't be delivered.
Computer must stay on: Your computer needs to remain powered on and connected to the internet.
Session active: Your WhatsApp Web session must remain active. If you log out or the session expires, scheduling won't work.
WhatsApp Business Auto-Reply Messages
While not true scheduling, WhatsApp Business offers automated messaging features that serve similar purposes for business communication.
Away Messages
Away messages automatically respond to customers when you're unavailable.
Setting up Away Messages:
Open WhatsApp Business and tap the three-dot menu. Go to Settings, then Business Tools, then Away Message. Toggle on "Send away message." Edit the message text to your preference. Choose your schedule: "Always send," "Custom schedule," or "Outside of business hours." Select recipients: Everyone, contacts not in address book, or specific contacts. Save your settings.
Greeting Messages
Greeting messages welcome first-time customers or those who haven't messaged in a while.
Setting up Greeting Messages:
Navigate to Settings, then Business Tools, then Greeting Message. Toggle on "Send greeting message." Customize your welcome message. Choose recipients. Save your configuration.
Schedule Options
Always send: The auto-reply activates for every incoming message—useful during vacations or extended absences.
Custom schedule: Set specific time windows when auto-replies should activate, like evenings and weekends.
Outside of business hours: Automatically responds only outside the hours you've set in your business profile.
Limitations of WhatsApp Business Auto-Reply
These aren't proactive scheduled messages—they're reactive responses to incoming messages. You cannot schedule a message to be sent to a specific contact at a specific time. They're designed for customer service acknowledgment, not outreach.
WhatsApp Business API Scheduling
For businesses requiring advanced scheduling and automation, the WhatsApp Business API offers comprehensive capabilities.
What the API Enables
True scheduled messaging: Send messages to specific contacts or groups at predetermined times without manual intervention.
Bulk messaging: Schedule campaigns to reach thousands of customers simultaneously.
Triggered messages: Set up automated messages based on customer actions, like abandoned cart reminders or post-purchase follow-ups.
Template messages: Use pre-approved message templates for notifications, updates, and marketing.
Integration capabilities: Connect with CRM systems, e-commerce platforms, and marketing tools for seamless automation.
How to Access the API
The WhatsApp Business API isn't available directly to individual users. You need to work with a WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP) such as Twilio, MessageBird, Gupshup, or others.
Requirements:
- A registered business
- Business verification through Meta
- A dedicated phone number for WhatsApp Business
- Partnership with an approved BSP
API Use Cases
Appointment reminders: Schedule reminders 24 hours before appointments.
Order updates: Automatically notify customers about shipping status at key milestones.
Marketing campaigns: Plan promotional messages for optimal delivery times.
Re-engagement: Schedule follow-ups with inactive customers.
Event notifications: Send timely updates about upcoming events or webinars.
Best Apps for Scheduling WhatsApp Messages
Here's a comparison of the most reliable scheduling solutions across platforms.
Android Apps
| App | Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| SKEDit | Messages, attachments, recurring | Most reliable, many features | Requires accessibility permission |
| Wasavi | Messages, images, scheduling | Clean interface | Fewer features than SKEDit |
| AutoResponder | Auto-replies, scheduling | Customizable triggers | More complex setup |
iOS Solutions
| Solution | Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shortcuts App | Time-based automation | Built-in, free | May require confirmation |
| Reminder Apps | Message reminders | Simple to use | Not automatic sending |
Web Extensions
| Extension | Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blueticks | Scheduling, tracking | Feature-rich | Requires browser open |
| WAScheduler | Basic scheduling | Simple interface | Limited features |
Business Solutions
| Platform | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| WhatsApp Business App | Away/greeting messages | Small businesses |
| WhatsApp Business API | Full automation | Medium to large businesses |
Limitations and Considerations
Understanding the limitations of WhatsApp message scheduling helps you use these tools effectively.
Technical Requirements
Device must be on: All third-party scheduling methods require your device to be powered on and connected to the internet at the scheduled time.
App/browser must be running: Scheduling apps need to remain active in the background. Browser extensions require WhatsApp Web to stay open.
WhatsApp updates: App updates can occasionally break third-party scheduling tools. Keep both WhatsApp and your scheduling app updated.
Security Considerations
Accessibility permissions: Android scheduling apps require accessibility access, which grants significant device control. Only use well-reviewed apps from trusted developers.
Extension permissions: Browser extensions can access your WhatsApp Web data. Review permissions carefully before installing.
Business API security: API integrations should use proper authentication and encryption to protect customer data.
Reliability Factors
Internet connectivity: Without a stable connection at the scheduled time, messages won't send.
Battery and power: Phone must have sufficient battery; computers must remain on.
App crashes: If the scheduling app crashes, pending messages may not send.
WhatsApp Policy Considerations
While WhatsApp doesn't explicitly prohibit scheduling through third-party tools for personal use, automated bulk messaging can violate their terms of service. Businesses should use official channels like the WhatsApp Business API for commercial messaging to avoid account restrictions.
Best Practices for Scheduled Messages
Maximize the effectiveness of your scheduled messages with these proven strategies.
Timing Optimization
Know your audience: Schedule messages for when recipients are most likely to be active. For business contacts, this typically means business hours in their time zone.
Avoid odd hours: Unless specifically appropriate (like midnight birthday wishes), avoid scheduling messages for very early or late hours.
Consider weekly patterns: Engagement often varies by day of week. Test different days to find optimal timing.
Message Quality
Personalize when possible: Even scheduled messages should feel personal. Include names and relevant context.
Keep it concise: Scheduled messages work best when they're clear and to the point.
Include clear purpose: Recipients should immediately understand why they're receiving the message.
Reliability Practices
Test before important messages: Send a test scheduled message to yourself before relying on it for critical communications.
Have a backup plan: For truly important messages, set a reminder to manually verify delivery.
Monitor battery and connectivity: Ensure your device will be powered and connected at the scheduled time.
Business Considerations
Respect opt-ins: Only send scheduled marketing messages to customers who have consented.
Provide value: Every scheduled message should offer something valuable to the recipient.
Balance automation with humanity: Don't over-automate. Some situations require genuine human interaction.
Business Use Cases for Scheduled Messages
Businesses across industries leverage WhatsApp scheduling for various purposes.
Marketing and Promotions
Flash sale announcements: Schedule promotional messages to arrive exactly when sales begin.
Product launches: Coordinate launch communications across time zones.
Seasonal campaigns: Plan holiday and seasonal marketing well in advance.
Customer Service
Appointment reminders: Reduce no-shows with timely reminders 24 hours before appointments.
Follow-up messages: Schedule post-purchase check-ins to gather feedback.
Onboarding sequences: Welcome new customers with a series of helpful messages.
E-commerce
Abandoned cart reminders: Recover potential sales with well-timed reminders.
Shipping notifications: Keep customers informed about delivery status.
Restock alerts: Notify interested customers when items are back in stock.
Internal Communications
Team reminders: Schedule reminders for meetings, deadlines, or important dates.
Status updates: Automate regular project status communications.
Shift notifications: Remind team members about upcoming shifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I schedule WhatsApp messages without third-party apps?
No, WhatsApp doesn't have a built-in scheduling feature. You must use third-party apps, browser extensions, or (for businesses) the WhatsApp Business API to schedule messages.
Is it safe to use third-party scheduling apps?
Reputable apps from trusted developers are generally safe. However, they require significant permissions (like accessibility access on Android), so only use well-reviewed apps from official app stores. Avoid apps that request unnecessary permissions.
Will scheduled messages send if my phone is off?
No. Third-party scheduling apps require your phone to be powered on and connected to the internet. If your device is off at the scheduled time, the message won't send until you turn it back on.
Can I schedule messages on iPhone as easily as Android?
No. iOS restrictions make scheduling more limited. The Shortcuts app provides a workaround, but it may require confirmation before sending. Android offers more seamless third-party app solutions.
Can I schedule messages to groups?
Yes, most scheduling apps support group messages. In SKEDit, for example, you can select Groups as the schedule type and choose the target group.
Can I attach images or files to scheduled messages?
Many Android scheduling apps like SKEDit support attachments including images, documents, and other files. iOS Shortcuts and browser extensions may have more limited attachment support.
Do scheduled messages show as regular messages to recipients?
Yes. Recipients can't tell that a message was scheduled—it appears just like any normal WhatsApp message with the delivery timestamp of when it was actually sent.
What happens if WhatsApp updates and breaks my scheduling app?
This can happen occasionally. Keep both apps updated and check for compatibility after major WhatsApp updates. Most scheduling apps quickly release fixes for compatibility issues.
Can businesses use scheduling for marketing?
Yes, but businesses should use official channels. The WhatsApp Business API provides compliant scheduling for commercial messaging. Using unofficial methods for bulk marketing can violate WhatsApp's terms and result in account bans.
Can I cancel a scheduled message before it sends?
Yes. Most scheduling apps allow you to view, edit, or delete pending scheduled messages before their delivery time.
Will I get a notification when my scheduled message is sent?
Most scheduling apps offer optional notifications confirming when scheduled messages are sent. You can usually enable or disable these in the app settings.
Can I schedule recurring messages?
Yes, many Android apps like SKEDit support recurring schedules—daily, weekly, monthly, or custom intervals. This is useful for regular reminders or ongoing communication.
Quick Reference: Scheduling Methods by Platform
| Platform | Method | Difficulty | Automation Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android | SKEDit / Third-party apps | Easy | Fully automatic |
| iPhone | Shortcuts app | Medium | May need confirmation |
| WhatsApp Web | Blueticks extension | Easy | Requires browser open |
| Business App | Away/Greeting messages | Easy | Reactive only |
| Business API | BSP integration | Complex | Fully automatic |
Final Thoughts
While WhatsApp doesn't offer native message scheduling, plenty of solutions exist to fill this gap. Android users enjoy the most flexibility with apps like SKEDit offering robust scheduling features. iPhone users can leverage the Shortcuts app for basic automation. WhatsApp Web users benefit from browser extensions that add scheduling capabilities.
For businesses, the WhatsApp Business app provides basic auto-reply functionality, while the WhatsApp Business API enables comprehensive scheduling and automation for larger operations. Choosing the right solution depends on your platform, use case, and technical comfort level.
Remember that all third-party scheduling methods require your device to be on and connected at the scheduled time. For critical messages, always have a backup plan and verify delivery when possible.
Scheduled messaging transforms WhatsApp from a reactive communication tool into a proactive engagement channel. Whether you're wishing someone happy birthday at exactly midnight, reaching customers in different time zones, or automating business communications, scheduling helps you communicate more effectively without being tied to your phone 24/7.
We hope this comprehensive guide on WhatsApp schedule messages has provided you with all the tools and knowledge to start scheduling your messages today. Choose the method that works best for your situation, and never miss the perfect moment to connect again.