How to Schedule a Message in WhatsApp Easily

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how to schedule messages in WhatsApp so that it will be sent automatically later? I've tried a variety of tricks and tools on my own. In this article I'll share with you how it can be done today for Android, iPhone, Web, and business setups.

We'll cover:

• Scheduling on Android using third-party applications
• Using Shortcuts on iOS
• Sending messages to WhatsApp Web
• How businesses do it via API
• Pros as well as limitations and useful tips

Let's get going.

Why WhatsApp Doesn't Natively Offer Scheduling

WhatsApp doesn't come with an option to schedule messages to be sent future. This means that you cannot write something right today and let WhatsApp send it for you later (unlike other email applications). This is why users depend on third-party tools automations, or even business APIs to access to this feature.

Schedule WhatsApp Messages on Android

On Android, you can utilize apps to automate sending messages. One of the most popular options is SKEDit. I've used it and you can follow the steps:

1. Install SKEDit from the Play Store.
2. Grant necessary permissions--especially the Accessibility permission.
3. Open SKEDit, select WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business.
4. Select the group or contact you want to send the message.
5. Write your message, choose the date and time, then turn on Schedule Send.
6. If you prefer, you can switch on "Ask me before sending" to confirm the sender before sending it out.

I set up a reminder message for myself this way. It came up precisely when I wanted.

Another application is Wasavi, you can schedule messages for WhatsApp, plus auto reply logic.

Limitations: These apps typically depend on accessibility features, which can break with updates. Also, your phone may need to be unlocked around send time for it to work reliably.

Schedule Messages on iPhone Using Shortcuts

On iOS, you don't get native scheduling in WhatsApp either. But, you can utilize the Shortcuts app to automate it:

1. Open Shortcuts - go to Automation tab.
2. Click on "+" and select Create Personal Automation.
3. Choose the Time of Day and enter when you want to send your message.
4. Click Add Action, search for Text, then type your message.
5. Click on "+" again, search for WhatsApp and then select send message via WhatsApp.
6. Pick your recipient.
7. You can turn off "Ask before Running" if you want to run it in a scheduled manner (automatically).

I used this trick to send small birthday greetings. Be cautious: If your phone is locked, or WhatsApp isn't active, the automation could be unsuccessful.

Schedule on WhatsApp Web via Browser Extension

If you are using WhatsApp Web, you can plan messages with browser extensions such as Blueticks:

1. Open WhatsApp Web in Chrome.
2. Install Blueticks using the Chrome Web Store.
3. Open the chat you want, click the clock icon next to the message box.
4. Choose date and time, then type your message, then press Schedule Send.
5. The extension will ensure it sends at that time.

This is a great option for desktop users. Make sure that your browser is open at the scheduled time.

Business Use: WhatsApp Business API & Auto Messages

For businesses, scheduling messages is easier through the WhatsApp Business API or built-in auto-reply tools.

The Business API lets you program messages using backend code to ensure that the messages are sent exactly when you want.

In the WhatsApp Business app, you can schedule Away Messages under Business Tools - Away Message. Choose "Custom schedule" to set when the message should be active.

These away messages are more for automatic replies than full message scheduling to individual users.

If you run a business, using a proper API provider like 360dialog, WATI, or YCloud gives you solid scheduling, templates, and customer engagement tools.

Pros & Limitations of Scheduling WhatsApp Messages

Pros:

• Plans messages in advance so that you do not be late to deadlines
• Aids in customer engagement and reminders
• It frees you from pressing "send" manually

Limitations:

• Native WhatsApp doesn't support it. Therefore, you'll require third-party apps
• Automation could fail if application or permissions change
• iPhone methods may not work if your phone is locked, or WhatsApp isn't active
• Business API and scheduling comes with cost and setup complexity

FAQ: People Also Ask

1. Can I schedule WhatsApp messages without using a third-party application?
It's not in the normal WhatsApp. You require automation tools or businesses API support.

2. Do scheduled messages appear in blue ticks?
Yes, they behave like normal messages once delivered.

3. Can WhatsApp Business let me schedule messages?
It can support Away Messages with custom times, but it does not support complete one-to-one scheduling.

4. Which Android application is the most effective to schedule messages?
SKEDit is a trusted option used by a lot of people.

Tips to Make Scheduling More Reliable

• Make sure you have the necessary permissions granted (accessibility, notifications).
• Disable auto-lock, or make sure that the phone is on during the time of sending.
• Start with small messages and test the setup.
• For business messaging, Use templates and approved API tools.
• Be careful not to over-schedule into the future. Apps or OS changes may break it.

Conclusion

Now you are aware of how to schedule messages in WhatsApp for Android, iPhone, WhatsApp Web, and even business setups. I tested these options myself. SKEDit was great, while the Shortcuts method for iPhone was good, but it was a little fragile. For businesses, the API is the best option.

Utilize these methods to create birthday wishes, reminder messages, or even automated responses to customer messages. Setting up messages via WhatsApp will save you time and stress. So get it set up today and never miss sending at the right moment.

Want to learn more about WhatsApp features? Check out How to Download WhatsApp Profile Picture for another useful guide!