How to Use ‘Send Later’ in Messages on iPhone and iPad [VIDEO]

Apple has introduced a new feature in iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia called “Send Later,” which allows users to schedule iMessages for future delivery.

This convenient new tool enables users to send important messages, such as birthday wishes or reminders, at a specific time without the need to remember to do it manually.

Here’s how to use the “Send Later” feature on iPhone and iPad:

• Open the Messages App: Launch the Messages app on your iPhone or iPad.
• Access the Scheduling Option: Tap the Apps button within the conversation, then tap the Send Later button.
• Choose a Time: A scheduler will appear after you tap the time. Select the exact date and time you want the message to be delivered.
• Compose Your Message: Once you’ve chosen the time, a dashed border will appear around the text field, and the scheduled time will display above the message. Now, write your message.
• Send the Scheduled Message: Tap the Send button to confirm your scheduled message. The message will remain in the conversation with a dashed border until the set time arrives, at which point it will be sent automatically, even if your device is offline.

Scheduled messages are securely encrypted and stored on Apple servers only until they are sent. Once the message is delivered, it’s removed from Apple’s servers.

If your plans change or you need to deliver the message sooner than expected, the process is simple. Here’s how to reschedule the message:

• Navigate to the Messages app and select the conversation containing the scheduled message.
• Scroll down to locate the scheduled message if it’s buried under other sent messages.
• Tap Edit next to the scheduled time above your message. You’ll see two options:
• Tap Edit Time, choose a new time, and tap outside the scheduler to confirm the update.
• If you want the message to go out immediately, tap Send Message to bypass the scheduled time.

Watch the following video from Apple’s YouTube support channel to learn more.