WhatsApp brings scheduled messages to iOS beta testers
Beta testers on TestFlight can hold the send button to pick a delivery time up to two weeks ahead, WhatsApp beta version 26.42.10.19 adds.
WhatsApp has expanded beta testing of its scheduled messages feature to iOS, with the tool rolling out to some users of the WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.42.10.19 through TestFlight, according to GSM Arena.
To schedule a message, users hold the send button, which opens a date and time picker; they then confirm the delivery time. Messages can be set to go out from 10 minutes to two weeks ahead, and they are sent at the chosen time even if the device is offline.
The feature supports text, links, photos and videos, with one photo or video per scheduled message. A confirmation appears in the chat but is visible only to the sender.
Scheduled messages are end-to-end encrypted and appear in a dedicated section of the chat info screen, where they can be deleted before they are sent. Recipients are not notified when a scheduled message is deleted. In group chats, a scheduled message reaches only members who were in the group at the time it was scheduled.
More iOS beta testers are expected to receive the feature over the coming weeks. Earlier in October 2026, WhatsApp began testing scheduled messages with some beta testers on Android, and the feature had been in development since at least February 2026.
Quick answers
How far in advance can I schedule a WhatsApp message?
From 10 minutes to two weeks ahead, according to the beta documentation reported by GSM Arena.
Can I schedule a message if my phone is offline?
Scheduled messages are sent at the set time even if the device is offline then.
Can I delete a scheduled message before it is sent?
Yes. Scheduled messages are listed in a dedicated section of the chat info screen and can be deleted there before sending; recipients are not notified.