To schedule a text message on an iPhone, you have two main methods depending on your iOS version and whether you want to send an iMessage or SMS:

Scheduling a Text with iOS 18 or Later (iMessage only)

• Open the Messages app and select the conversation or start a new one.
• Tap the plus (+) icon next to the text field.
• Choose Send Later.
• Select the date and time you want the message to be sent.
• Type your message and tap the send button.
• The message will appear with a dashed border and the scheduled send time above it.
• The message will be sent automatically at the scheduled time, even if your devices are offline

Note: This feature only works with iMessage (blue bubbles) and requires iOS 18 or later. The recipient can be on any device, but SMS scheduling is not supported this way

Scheduling a Text Using the Shortcuts App (Works for SMS and iMessage, iOS

13+)

If you want to schedule SMS or are on iOS versions before 18, use the Shortcuts app:

• Open the Shortcuts app.
• Tap the Automation tab at the bottom.
• Tap Create Personal Automation (or the plus icon if you have existing automations).
• Select Time of Day and set when you want the message sent.
• Choose if it repeats daily, weekly, or monthly.
• Tap Next , then tap Add Action.
• Search for and select Send Message.
• Enter your message and select the recipient(s).
• Tap Next , then disable Ask Before Running to send automatically.
• Tap Done to save the automation

This method allows scheduling texts beyond iMessage and works on older iOS versions but requires setting up an automation.

Summary

Method| Works For| iOS Requirement| Notes
---|---|---|---
Messages app "Send Later"| iMessage only| iOS 18+| Simple UI, scheduled messages encrypted
Shortcuts app automation| SMS & iMessage| iOS 13+| More complex setup, supports SMS scheduling

Use the Messages app method if you have iOS 18 or later and want to schedule iMessages easily. Use the Shortcuts app for SMS or if you have an earlier iOS version