How to schedule a text message on an iPhone

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Short answer

In Messages, type your message, tap the plus button next to the text field, tap Send Later, choose the day and time, and tap the send arrow. It works for iMessage conversations on iOS 18 or later.

Send Later lets you write a birthday wish or a reminder now and have it delivered at the right moment. The message waits on Apple's servers, so it is sent even if your phone is off.

Step by step

  1. Open the conversation in Messages

    The other person must be using iMessage, shown by blue bubbles.

  2. Type your message

    Write it as normal but do not send it yet.

  3. Tap the plus button and choose Send Later

    The plus is to the left of the text field. You may need to tap More to see Send Later.

  4. Set the date and time

    Tap the time shown above the message and turn the wheels. You can schedule up to 14 days ahead.

  5. Tap the send arrow

    The message appears with a dashed outline at the bottom of the conversation until it is delivered.

Good to know

To change or cancel it, tap Edit next to the scheduled time above the message. You can change the time, send it now or delete it.

Send Later does not work for green-bubble SMS messages. For those, create an automation in the Shortcuts app: Automation, Time of Day, then the Send Message action.

The message is sent at the time in your own time zone.

In short: Messages, type, plus button, Send Later, pick the time, send.

Sources
  • Apple Support: Send a message later on iPhone

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