WhatsApp is on the verge of a game-changing update that’s long overdue—scheduled messages. With over a billion downloads on Android and iOS, the Meta-owned app dominates global messaging, boasting features like high-quality media sharing, chat locks, and Meta AI integration. Yet, one staple missing from rivals like Telegram and iMessage? The ability to queue up messages for later delivery. That’s about to change.
Feature Breakdown: How WhatsApp Scheduled Messages Will Work
Recent WhatsApp beta for iOS (version 26.7.10.72) leaks from WABetaInfo reveal a “Scheduled Messages” option in the Group Info menu. Users will draft a message and set a future send time—perfect for midnight birthday wishes, work reminders, or time-zone-friendly updates without staying up late.
Imagine prepping a “Happy Birthday!” text at 10 PM, scheduling it for exactly 12:01 AM, then sleeping soundly. This lands amid WhatsApp’s 2026 push, including a redesigned status tab and stricter privacy controls.
Late to the Party: Rivals Have Had It for Years
- Telegram (since 2019): Offers basic scheduling plus a “Repeat” mode for recurring sends, like weekly team reminders.
- Instagram DMs (Meta-owned): Schedule messages up to 29 days ahead.
- Others like Signal, Facebook Messenger, and iMessage: All support delayed sending.
“Why now?” you might ask. Meta’s been prioritizing AI and privacy, but this fills a glaring gap for power users.
Rollout Timeline and What to Expect
The feature is in early beta via TestFlight for iOS—Android betas may follow soon. Expect wider beta testing next, then stable rollout in weeks or months. No word yet on repeats or advanced options, but it could boost WhatsApp’s edge in group chats and businesses.
For digital marketers, this means automated campaigns, event promos, and follow-ups without third-party apps. Stay tuned—WhatsApp could redefine “set it and forget it” messaging in 2026.