Scheduling a text message on your iPhone is a handy feature for those moments when you want to send a message but it’s just not the right time—maybe you’re respecting different time zones or simply planning ahead. You can easily set up scheduled text messages using the Shortcuts app on your iPhone. This involves creating an automation that sends a message at a specific time. Let’s walk through the step-by-step process to get your messages scheduled and ready to go.
How to Schedule a Text Message on iPhone
By following these steps, you’ll learn how to use the Shortcuts app to set up an automated text message that sends at the time you choose. This can be useful for birthdays, reminders, or any situation where timing is everything.
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First, locate and open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone.
The Shortcuts app is a powerful tool provided by Apple that allows you to automate tasks on your device. If you can’t find it, use the search feature on your phone to quickly locate it.
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Tap on the "Automation" tab at the bottom of the screen, then tap "Create Personal Automation."
Creating a new automation gives you the control to set specific triggers on your device. In this case, you’ll be setting a time trigger for your text message.
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Select "Time of Day" as the trigger and set the specific time you want the message sent, then tap "Next."
The "Time of Day" trigger allows you to pick the exact hour and minute for your automation. This is the key to scheduling your message.
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Tap "Add Action," search for "Send Message," and select it.
This action will be responsible for actually sending your text. You’ll need to specify the content of the message and the recipient in the next step.
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Type your message and select the contact you want to send it to, then tap "Next."
Make sure you double-check the message content and recipient to ensure accuracy. This will prevent any accidental messages from being sent to the wrong person.
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Toggle off "Ask Before Running" to ensure the message sends without your intervention, then tap "Done."
Disabling this option ensures that your message will send automatically at the specified time without needing further input from you.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your iPhone will automatically send the text message at the scheduled time you specified. It’s a set-and-forget feature that can save you time and effort.
Current iPhone note
Menu names can move between iOS releases. If a setting is not where an older model-specific article places it, use the search field in Settings and verify the feature name before assuming it was removed.