We’ve all been there you remember a friend’s birthday at 2 AM, or you want to send a work update but don’t want to disturb your boss on a Sunday. The urge to “send it now so I don’t forget” battles with social etiquette.
For years, iPhone users had to rely on complicated workarounds to schedule messages. But with recent updates, Apple has finally listened.
Whether you are running the latest iOS 18 or clinging to an older version, this guide covers exactly how to send a text later on iPhone. We will break down the native “Send Later” feature, the “Shortcuts” automation trick for SMS, and the best third-party apps for advanced scheduling.
Table of Contents
The Game Changer: “Send Later” in iOS 18
If you have updated to iOS 18, scheduling a text is now a native feature built directly into the Messages app. This is the easiest method and requires no complex setup.
Note: This feature currently works specifically for iMessages (blue bubbles) sent to other Apple users.
Step-by-Step: Using Native Send Later
- Open the Messages app and tap on a conversation.
- Tap the plus (+) icon on the left side of the text field.
- Tap More to expand the menu, then select Send Later.
- Use the slider to pick the date and time you want the message to be delivered. (You can schedule up to 14 days in advance).
- Type your message in the text field.
- Tap the blue up-arrow to schedule it.
Your message will now sit in the chat thread with a dashed blue outline, indicating it is queued.
Pro Tip: Need to change the time? Simply tap the Edit button above the scheduled bubble to adjust the time, send it immediately, or delete it entirely.
How to Schedule a Text on iPhone Using Shortcuts? (For SMS & Older iOS)
If you are sending a standard SMS (green bubble) to an Android user, or if you haven’t updated to iOS 18, the native “Send Later” button won’t appear.
Don’t worry you can still schedule texts using the Shortcuts app that comes pre-installed on your iPhone. This method creates a “Personal Automation.”
Step-by-Step: The Shortcuts Automation Method
- Open the Shortcuts app.
- Tap the Automation tab at the bottom of the screen.
- Tap New Automation or the plus (+) icon.
- Select Time of Day.
- Set the time you want the text to send. Under “Repeat,” ensure Daily is selected (we will turn this off later).
- Select Run Immediately (important so it sends without asking you first), then tap Next.
- Tap New Blank Automation > Add Action.
- Search for “Send Message” and tap it.
- Tap “Message” to type your text, and tap “Recipients” to choose the contact.
- Tap Done.
Critical Warning: Since this is an “automation,” your iPhone will try to send this message every day at that time.
- To stop it repeating: Once your message is sent, go back into Shortcuts > Automation and swipe left to delete the automation.
Best Third-Party Apps to Schedule Messages:
If you need more advanced features like scheduling WhatsApp messages or managing bulk business texts third-party apps are a great solution.
Here are a few reliable options found on the App Store:
- Scheduled: Great for reminders. It allows you to draft messages for WhatsApp, Telegram, and iMessage. Note: Most third-party apps will send you a notification at the scheduled time, prompting you to manually press send.
- Kyew: Offers a simple interface to queue up SMS and photo messages.
- AutoSender: Popular for small business owners who need auto-replies and delayed delivery features.
Troubleshooting: Why Did My Scheduled Text Fail?
Sometimes, even with the best setup, technology hiccups happen. Here is why your text might not have sent:
- No Internet Connection: For the iOS 18 “Send Later” feature (iMessage), your phone needs an active data or Wi-Fi connection at the scheduled time to push the message to Apple’s servers.
- Phone Was Turned Off: If you are using the Shortcuts method, your phone must be powered on to trigger the automation.
- Recipient is Not on iMessage: Remember, the native iOS 18 button often disappears or greys out if you are texting a non-Apple device. Use the Shortcuts method for these contacts.
Conclusion:
Learning how to send a text later on iPhone is a small skill that offers big returns in peace of mind. Whether you use the seamless iOS 18 features for your fellow iPhone friends or the robust Shortcuts tool for everyone else, you never have to worry about forgetting a birthday or sending a late-night work text again.
Start by testing the “Send Later” feature today queue up a message for a friend’s upcoming anniversary and see how easy it is to stay ahead of your schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does “Send Later” work for Android users?
The native iOS 18 “Send Later” feature is currently designed for iMessage (Apple-to-Apple). To schedule a text to an Android user (green bubble), you should use the Shortcuts app method outlined above.
Will the other person know I scheduled the text?
No. The recipient sees the message exactly as if you had typed and sent it at that moment. There is no “scheduled” label on their end.
Can I schedule a text if my phone is on Airplane Mode?
No. Your phone requires a connection to a cellular network or Wi-Fi to deliver the message at the designated time.
Is there a limit to how far in advance I can schedule?
With iOS 18, you can schedule a message up to 14 days in advance.
