WhatsApp tests automated message scheduling feature

WhatsApp is testing a new message scheduling feature that allows users to automate the delivery of text, links, photos, and videos. The feature is currently being rolled out to select WhatsApp beta users on Android via version 2.26.40.7.

Users can schedule messages up to two weeks in advance, with a minimum lead time of 10 minutes. To use the function, users type a message and long-press the send button to trigger a scheduling menu. Once a time is set, WhatsApp will automatically send the message even if the application is closed or the device is offline.

For media, the feature supports one photo or video per scheduled message, which can be edited or captioned before scheduling. Users can manage, view, or delete scheduled messages through a specific section in the chat information. In group chats, scheduled messages will only be received by members who were part of the group at the time the message was scheduled.