How to schedule messages and set auto-replies
These two features are the ones people who use WhatsApp for work value most. The scheduler sends a message at the date and time you choose even with the phone in your pocket; auto-reply answers on its own while you sleep or serve someone else.
The official app only offers auto-reply in its Business version, and has no scheduler at all.
Step by step
-
1
Open the scheduler
Three-dot menu, then Message scheduler.
-
2
Create a new message
Press the add button and choose the destination contact or group.
-
3
Write it and pick the date
Compose the text and set the exact day and time. You can queue several messages at once.
-
4
Decide whether it repeats
For birthday greetings or weekly reminders, turn on repetition.
-
5
Leave the app in the background
The message sends itself, but the app must be allowed to run in the background. Remove battery restrictions for it in Android settings.
-
6
Set up auto-reply
Back in the menu, open Auto reply. Write the text you want sent.
-
7
Choose who gets it
You can limit it to specific contacts, to everyone except a few, or only to numbers you have not saved.
-
8
Set the schedule
Define the window when it should be active, for example 22:00 to 08:00.
Tips and warnings
- If the phone is switched off at the scheduled time, the message goes out when you turn it on, not before.
- Do not use the scheduler to send the same text to many strangers: it is the fastest route to a block.
- Proofread before scheduling: once sent you only get 15 minutes to edit.
Questions about this guide
Does it work with the phone silent or locked?
Yes, as long as the app can run in the background and there is a connection.
Can the other person tell it was scheduled?
No. It arrives exactly like a message typed at that moment.