How to Schedule a Text Message on an iPhone
Scheduling text messages on an iPhone can be convenient, especially if you need to send a message at a specific time in the future. While iMessage itself doesn’t support this feature, there are workarounds using both Apple’s Shortcuts app and third-party applications. Here’s how you can do it:
Using the Shortcuts App
- Accessing Shortcuts:
- Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone. If you’re using iOS 13 or later, the app comes pre-installed. For earlier versions, download it from the App Store.
- Creating an Automation:
- Navigate to the Automation tab at the bottom of the app.
- If it’s your first time, tap on “Create Personal Automations”. For existing users, tap on the “+” in the upper right corner and then select “Create Personal Automation”.
- Setting Up Time and Recurrence:
- Choose “Time of Day” as your trigger.
- Set the specific time and frequency (e.g., daily, weekly, monthly) you want the message to be sent.
- Adding Actions:
- Tap on “Add Action” and search for “Send Message”.
- Select a contact from your address book and compose the message you want to send.
- Customizing Your Automation:
- Review your automation settings. Disable “Ask Before Running” if you want the message to be sent automatically at the scheduled time.
- Tap “Done” to save your automation.
- Managing Your Automations:
- Remember, this method creates a recurring message. If it’s a one-time message, delete the automation after it’s been sent by swiping left on the automation and tapping “Delete”.
Using Third-Party Apps
If you prefer a simpler interface or need more advanced scheduling options, consider downloading a third-party app such as Moxy Messenger, Reminderbase – SMS Scheduler, or Carrier Messaging. These apps allow you to schedule text messages for one-time or recurring sends, offering flexibility depending on your needs.
Can You Schedule an iMessage?
No, iMessage itself doesn’t support scheduling text messages. You’ll need to use either the Shortcuts app or a third-party app designed for this purpose.
FAQ
What does the crescent moon icon in my iPhone’s text messages mean?
- The crescent moon icon indicates that you’ve enabled Do Not Disturb for that conversation, preventing notifications from appearing.
How do you forward a text message on iPhone?
- Tap and hold the message, then select “More” and “Share”. Choose a recipient and tap “Send”.
How do you block a text message on iPhone?
- Tap on the contact or number, then select “More Info” > “Info” > “Block This Caller”.
How do you recall a text message on iPhone?
- Unfortunately, once sent, you cannot recall a text message. You can try turning on Airplane Mode immediately after sending to prevent delivery.
By following these steps, you can efficiently schedule text messages on your iPhone, ensuring your messages are sent at the right time, every time. Whether using Apple’s Shortcuts app or a third-party solution, these methods provide valuable options for managing your communications effectively.
