Whether you need to send a reminder, wish someone a happy birthday at the perfect time, or ensure timely communication for any reason, scheduling a text can be a real game-changer. With the release of iOS 18, Apple has made it easier than ever to schedule text messages directly from your iPhone. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps on how to schedule a text message on an iPhone in iOS 18, ensuring that your messages are always sent exactly when you want them to be.
Why schedule text messages?
Scheduling text messages allows you to plan your communications in advance, ensuring timely delivery without the need to remember to send them manually. Whether it’s a birthday wish, a reminder, or an important business message, scheduling ensures you never miss sending important texts.
Also read: How to use text effects in iMessage in iOS 18.
Method 1: Scheduling text messages in iOS 18
Apple’s introduction of text message scheduling in iOS 18 has simplified the process significantly. Here’s how you can schedule a text message on your iPhone with this latest update:
1. Start by launching the Messages app on your iPhone.
2. Navigate to the iMessage conversation where you want to schedule a message or start a new conversation.
3. Type the message you wish to schedule.
4. Tap the + button and select More from the pop-up menu.
5. Choose the Send Later option.
6. Specify the desired time and date for your message to be sent.
7. Hit the Send button (upward arrow) to confirm the scheduling.
Once scheduled, you will see the message along with a Send Later tag indicating the set time and date. If you need to make changes, simply tap the Edit button to modify the date and time, send the message immediately, or delete it if necessary.
Method 2: Scheduling text messages using the Shortcuts app
For those not yet on iOS 18, the Shortcuts app offers a robust alternative for scheduling messages. Here’s how to use it:
1. Launch the Shortcuts app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on the Automation tab at the bottom.
3. Select Create Personal Automation.
4. Choose the Time of Day and set the specific time you want the message to be sent. Adjust the Repeat settings according to your needs (e.g., daily, weekly).
5. Tap Next and then Add Action.
6. Search for and select Send Message.
7. Enter the desired message text in the Message field.
8. Select the recipient(s) by tapping on the Recipients field.
9. Finally, tap Next again, review your automation, and tap Done.
When the set time happens, the message will automatically be sent. Furthermore, you will be notified when the message is sent if you have turned on the Notify When Run option.
Also read: How to hide alerts in Messages app on iPhone.
Deleting a Scheduled Message
If you need to cancel a scheduled message, the process is straightforward:
1. Navigate to the Automation section.
2. Find the automation that sends the message.
3. Swipe left on the automation and tap the red Delete button.
Method 3: Third-party apps to schedule text messages
If you prefer more flexibility or additional features, third-party apps can be a great alternative. Here are two popular options:
1. Scheduled
1. Download and install the Scheduled.
2. Open the app and sign in.
3. Tap the + icon to start a new scheduled message.
4. Enter the recipient’s details and your message.
5. Set the date and time for the message to be sent.
6. Tap Schedule.
2. SMS Scheduler
1. Download and install the SMS Scheduler.
2. Open the app and create an account.
3. Tap New Message.
4. Enter the recipient’s contact and type your message.
5. Select Schedule and set your preferred date and time.
6. Tap Save to schedule the message.
Also read: How to send a message to yourself in iMessage on your iPhone.
Text scheduled!
Scheduling a text message on an iPhone in iOS 18 is a convenient feature that can enhance your communication efficiency. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily manage your scheduled texts and ensure they are sent at the right time.
FAQs
Scheduling is available on iPhones running iOS 18 and later, starting from iPhone 8 onwards.
Yes, an internet connection is required to set and send scheduled messages.
Yes, you can schedule messages to multiple recipients using both the Messages app and third-party apps.
No, scheduling messages using the Messages app or most third-party apps does not incur additional costs.
You will receive a notification once the message is sent, and you can also check the sent messages in the Messages app.
Yes, you can manage your scheduled messages in the Scheduled tab of the Messages app or the respective third-party app.
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Nutan is a BCA graduate with a keen interest in the world of consumer technology. A fan of both the Apple and Google ecosystems, he enjoys exploring the latest gadgets and how they can enhance our daily lives. Nutan specializes in crafting clear and informative how-to guides and comprehensive buying advice. His insightful reviews offer an in-depth look at the pros and cons of the newest tech products, helping readers make the best decisions for their needs.
