Credits: Apple
Apple’s latest iOS 18 update introduces several new features, including message scheduling. Here’s how to use ‘Send Later.’
Scheduling messages can be transformative for users, enhancing business communications, personal reminders, and timely connections with loved ones. Businesses can send reminders at optimal times, while individuals can schedule birthday greetings or communicate across different time zones.
With iOS 18, Apple has integrated ‘Send Later’ directly into the Messages app for both one-on-one and group chats, making it accessible and easy to use.
How to schedule messages in iOS 18
Using an iPhone for scheduling messages is more reliable than using a Mac or iPad. If a Mac is in sleep mode at the scheduled time, the message won’t be sent, leading to potential delays or missed communications. An iPhone, typically always on and connected to the network, ensures scheduled messages are sent precisely on time without interruptions.
Note that the Send Later feature currently only works with iMessage, meaning it is limited to iPhone users and cannot schedule messages to Android users via SMS.
However, this might change in the future if Apple adopts the RCS protocol, which provides an iMessage-like experience for texting Android users.
Here’s how to schedule messages on an iPhone running iOS 18:
- Open the Messages app.
- Write your message.
- Tap the circular plus button and select More.
- Select Send Later and choose the time to send your message.
- Alternatively, you can tap on Send Later first and then write the message.
By default, the “Send Later” feature is found under the “More” options in the Messages app. If you use this feature often, you can drag it to the first page for quicker access.
The message scheduling feature in iOS 18 is a powerful tool for enhancing productivity and ensuring timely communication. By using Send Later, you can maximize this feature for both personal and professional benefit.