Google Messages can schedule a text to send later on supported Android phones. Scheduling is useful for a reminder or a message you have prepared in advance, but it does not guarantee delivery at an exact second. If the phone has no Wi-Fi or mobile data at the scheduled time, Google says the message sends after the device reconnects.
Write and schedule the message
- Open Google Messages and choose the conversation.
- Type the message, but do not tap Send yet.
- Touch and hold the Send button to open the scheduling options.
- Choose one of the suggested times or select a date and time of your own, then confirm.
- Tap Send to save the scheduled message.
The message appears in the conversation with a scheduled indicator. If the long-press menu does not appear, update Google Messages through Google Play and check that you are using the app that supports the feature. Phone menus and app capabilities can differ by version.
Edit, send now or cancel
Open the conversation and find the scheduled message. Tap its schedule indicator to see the available actions. Google Messages lets you update the scheduled time, send the message immediately or delete it. Review the recipient and message text before changing the schedule, especially in a group conversation.
Check delivery conditions
Keep the phone powered and connected around the scheduled time. If it is offline, the message may be sent later when connectivity returns. Standard SMS or MMS delivery may also depend on your carrier, plan, signal and recipient’s service. Do not use scheduled text messages for emergencies, time-critical instructions or authentication codes that expire quickly.
Google Messages scheduling covers text messages in that app. It does not automatically schedule posts in every social network; use the relevant service’s own scheduling feature and review its audience and time-zone settings.
