Quick Answer
Yes, it is possible to schedule WhatsApp messages to be sent at a specific date and time on both iPhone and Android devices. This can be done by using the built-in scheduling feature within WhatsApp or by using third party apps.
How to Schedule WhatsApp Messages on iPhone
Here are the steps to schedule a WhatsApp message on iPhone:
1. Open the WhatsApp app and go to the chat where you want to schedule the message.
2. Tap and hold on the text box at the bottom to bring up the menu.
3. Tap on the clock icon next to the microphone icon.
4. This will open up the scheduling options. Select the date and time you want the message to be sent.
5. The scheduled time will appear at the top of the message. Tap the send button when ready.
6. The message will be queued and delivered at the scheduled time, even if WhatsApp is closed.
7. You can tap on the scheduled message anytime before it’s sent to edit or delete it.
Things to Note
– Scheduled messages will only be sent if your phone is turned on and connected to the internet at the scheduled time.
– You can schedule messages up to 1 year in advance.
– Scheduled messages will be canceled if you delete the chat before the message is sent.
– There is no limit on the number of scheduled messages you can have queued up.
How to Schedule WhatsApp Messages on Android
Scheduling WhatsApp messages on Android works similarly with some small differences:
1. Open the WhatsApp chat where you want to schedule the message.
2. Tap and hold on the text box at the bottom to bring up the menu.
3. Tap on the schedule button next to the emoji icon.
4. Select the date and time to schedule the message.
5. The scheduled time will show at the top. Tap send when ready.
6. The message will be delivered at the set time even if WhatsApp is closed.
7. Tap the scheduled message anytime before sending to make changes.
Key Points
– You need to have the latest version of WhatsApp installed.
– Like on iPhone, your phone needs to be powered on and connected to the internet at the scheduled time.
– Messages can be scheduled up to 1 year in advance.
– Scheduled messages will be canceled if you delete the chat.
– There is no limit on the number of scheduled messages.
Using Third Party Apps to Schedule WhatsApp Messages
If you want more flexibility in scheduling WhatsApp messages, there are third party apps you can use:
SKEDit (iOS and Android)
– Schedule messages with customizable repeat intervals – daily, weekly, monthly etc.
– Supports scheduling messages to multiple chats.
– Features like snoozing messages.
Wasavi (Android)
– Schedule messages or message templates up to 20 years in advance.
– Configurable repeat intervals – daily, alternate days, weekly etc.
– Supports scheduling WhatsApp Business messages.
Schedule for WhatsApp Web (Web browser extension)
– Lets you schedule WhatsApp Web messages easily from desktop.
– Syncs scheduled messages across devices.
– Clean and simple interface. Free with no ads.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– More flexibility in scheduling options compared to WhatsApp built-in feature.
– Ability to schedule recurring messages.
– Desktop browser support.
Cons:
– Need to install additional apps with extra permissions.
– Reliability depends on third party app.
– Potential security and privacy risks.
What Types of Messages Can be Scheduled on WhatsApp?
You can schedule various types of messages on WhatsApp:
– Text messages – Simple text or emoji only messages.
– Media messages – Photos, videos, GIFs, documents etc.
– Location sharing – Future date and time can be set.
– Message templates – Saved frequently used messages.
– WhatsApp Business messages – Promotional and informational messages.
Limitations
Some types of WhatsApp messages cannot be scheduled for later delivery:
– Voice messages – Recording has to be done in real-time.
– Messages to unsaved numbers – Recipient’s phone number needs to be saved in your contacts first.
– Group invites – Invite links expire and have to be sent immediately.
– Payments – Payments happen in real-time and cannot be scheduled.
Overall, most common text, media and template messages can be scheduled without issues.
Common Uses of Scheduled WhatsApp Messages
Here are some common scenarios where scheduling WhatsApp messages can be useful:
Personal Reminders
– Birthday wishes to friends and family.
– Meeting reminders to colleagues.
– Reminders to run errands and tasks.
Event Promotions
– Send event details on the day of the event.
– Remind attendees about registration deadlines.
Business Marketing
– Schedule product launches, sales and promotions.
– Set reminders for appointments, deliveries etc.
– Send recurring promotional messages and updates.
Content Scheduling
– Schedule updates and posts from social media accounts.
– Queue messages when convenient without constantly checking phone.
– Prepare content and schedule it for later.
Tips
– Personalize scheduled messages with recipient’s name.
– Keep messages concise.
– Schedule messages for early morning or late evening for better visibility.
– Avoid spamming contacts with too many scheduled messages.
WhatsApp Scheduling Related Facts and Statistics
Here are some interesting facts and statistics related to scheduling WhatsApp messages:
WhatsApp Usage
– 2 billion monthly active WhatsApp users worldwide (February 2020)
– Over 65 billion messages sent daily on WhatsApp (October 2019)
– WhatsApp has over 1.5 billion users in India, its biggest market (July 2018)
Message Scheduling
– 13% of social media marketers use scheduling tools daily (Sprout Social)
– 78% of social media marketers use some form of message scheduling (Buffer)
– 53% of marketers say scheduling content is extremely useful (Social Media Examiner)
– Top reasons for scheduling social messages – plan content in advance (58%), save time (50%), schedule outside working hours (37%) (ReportLinker)
Benefits of Scheduling
– Increased convenience – schedule multiple messages easily in bulk.
– Consistent follower engagement – scheduled messages let you maintain regular connections.
– Workflow optimization – schedule messages when you have free time instead of being glued to your phone.
– Wider audience reach – scheduling messages for optimal send times improves visibility.
Key Takeaways
– Scheduling WhatsApp messages is convenient for both personal and business use.
– Native scheduling features make it easy directly within WhatsApp.
– Third party apps provide more powerful scheduling options.
– Scheduling improves audience engagement and frees up time by optimizing workflows.
Steps to Use Scheduled WhatsApp Messages Effectively
Follow these tips to use scheduled WhatsApp messages effectively:
1. Plan Content in Advance
– Brainstorm relevant topics and themes to engage your audience.
– Maintain a content calendar to space out scheduled messages.
– Draft customized messages for different recipients and occasions.
2. Pick Optimal Send Times
– Schedule promotional messages during peak hours when users are active.
– Send reminders and updates early morning or evening for visibility.
– Use reports to identify best times for your audience.
3. Personalize Messages
– Use names, occasions, interests etc. to personalize scheduled messages.
– Make messages sound natural instead of automated bulk content.
– Personalized messages get more attention and response.
4. Mix Up Your Content
– Include a variety of text, images, videos, polls etc.
– Balance promotional content with valuable information.
– Change up formats to keep audience engaged over time.
5. Check Scheduled Messages Before Sending
– Proofread messages before scheduling to avoid mistakes going out.
– Double check dates and times to ensure accuracy.
– Review periodically before send to confirm messages.
Conclusion
Scheduling WhatsApp messages with a strategic plan will increase engagement and make your content work harder for you. Just be sure to customize messages, pick optimal timing, provide value, and proofread thoroughly.
WhatsApp Scheduling Tools Comparison
Here is a comparison of the popular tools available for scheduling WhatsApp messages:
| Tool | Platforms | Free Version | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| SKEDit | iOS, Android | Limited schedules | Recurring schedules, message templates, analytics |
| Wasavi | Android | Limited messages | Schedule up to 20 years, customize repeat intervals |
| Schedule for WhatsApp Web | Web Browser | Full features | Syncs across devices, simple interface |
| Buffer | iOS, Android | Limited schedules | Analyze performance, collaborate with team |
Key Differences
– SKEDit and Wasavi are mobile apps while Schedule for WhatsApp Web is a browser extension.
– SKEDit has the most advanced scheduling options of the mobile apps.
– Buffer is focused on social media scheduling and team collaboration.
– Schedule for WhatsApp Web is 100% free without limiting features.
– Wasavi lets you schedule messages for up to 20 years in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about scheduling WhatsApp messages:
How far in advance can you schedule WhatsApp messages?
On WhatsApp directly, you can schedule messages up to 1 year in advance. Some third party tools allow scheduling up to 20 years in advance.
Can you schedule WhatsApp messages on iPhone and Android?
Yes, message scheduling is available on both iPhone and Android devices natively within WhatsApp. Third party scheduling apps are also available on both platforms.
Do scheduled messages work if my phone is off?
No, your phone needs to be powered on and connected to the internet at the scheduled time for the messages to be sent. Otherwise, they will fail to deliver.
Can I edit a scheduled WhatsApp message before it sends?
Yes, you can make changes to or delete a scheduled WhatsApp message at any time before the scheduled date and time.
Is scheduling WhatsApp messages free?
The built-in scheduling feature in WhatsApp is free. Some third party apps offer free versions with limited features. Paid versions give access to more advanced options.
Conclusion
Scheduling WhatsApp messages is a simple trick to boost engagement, save time, and optimize your workflow. Make sure to balance personalization with bulk scheduling for best results. With WhatsApp’s own scheduling feature and third party tools, it’s easy to schedule messages exactly when you want.