Schedule iPhone Text Messages to Send at a Specific Time
Whether you’re sending birthday wishes at midnight, reminders early in the morning, or business messages during work hours—timing matters. While Apple doesn’t natively support scheduled text messages in the Messages app, there are workarounds using the Shortcuts app and reliable third-party apps.
This guide walks you through both approaches to automatically send scheduled iPhone text messages.
Method 1: Schedule iPhone Texts Using the Shortcuts App
The Shortcuts app, built into iOS, can automate actions on your iPhone, including sending messages. While it won’t allow one-off scheduling (e.g., send a text once at a future time), it works perfectly for repetitive messages sent daily, weekly, or monthly.
Steps to Schedule Repeating iPhone Messages:
Open the Shortcuts App (pre-installed on iOS).
Tap Automation at the bottom.
Tap Create Personal Automation (or the + icon).
Choose Time of Day.
Set your desired send time.
Choose how often: Daily, Weekly, or Monthly.
Tap Next.
Tap Add Action.
Search for and select Send Message.
Tap Message to write the text you want to send.
Tap Recipients to choose who will receive it.
Tap Next, review everything, then tap Done.
⚠️ Important: This automation repeats. To stop it after one send, you’ll need to manually delete it by swiping left on the automation list.
Method 2: Use Third-Party Apps to Schedule One-Time Texts on iPhone
If you’re looking to schedule one-time messages (like birthday greetings or meeting reminders), Apple’s Shortcuts app isn’t enough. Fortunately, several apps in the App Store can help.
Best Third-Party Apps to Schedule iPhone Text Messages
Here are top-rated apps for iPhone text scheduling:
| App Name | Key Features | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled App | Plan messages, get reminders to send them manually. Some integrations (like WhatsApp) | Free w/ in-app purchases |
| Moxy Messenger | Allows full auto-send of messages | Paid |
| Textee | Offers reminders and scheduled message drafts | Free |
| AutoSender | Sends real scheduled SMS automatically via a server | Subscription-based |
| Reminderbase | Schedule and manage both texts and email reminders | Freemium |
Note: Apple restricts full auto-sending of SMS via third-party apps, so many apps use notification reminders to prompt you to tap ‘Send’ when the time comes.
iOS 18 and the Future of Message Scheduling (2025 Update)
With iOS 18 expected to drop later this year, rumors suggest enhanced automation controls, including deeper integration of Shortcuts with Messages and Reminders. While Apple hasn’t officially announced built-in scheduled texting, these updates could open new doors.
Until then, combining the Shortcuts app for repetitive messages and third-party tools for one-time messages gives the most complete solution.
Pro Tips to Maximize Message Scheduling
Use Siri Shortcuts to quickly trigger automations.
Set up contact groups to send mass scheduled texts (great for teams or family).
For business, use apps that offer automatic sending with cloud support (e.g., AutoSender).
Test your automation or app once before relying on it for critical communication.
Final Thoughts
While iPhones don’t yet natively support one-off message scheduling, you have robust workarounds using Apple’s automation tools and trusted apps. Whether you’re trying to send a birthday wish at midnight or ensure client reminders go out without fail, you can now schedule iPhone text messages with ease.
FAQ: Schedule iPhone Text Messages
Q: Can you schedule a one-time text message on iPhone without an app?
A: No. Apple does not yet allow one-time future scheduling via the Messages app. You’ll need a third-party app or a manual reminder workaround.
Q: Are scheduled texts sent automatically via Shortcuts?
A: Yes, if it’s a recurring automation. But for one-time messages, Shortcuts lacks a built-in single-use feature.
Q: Are there privacy concerns with third-party text scheduling apps?
A: Always check app permissions. Choose apps with good reviews and clear privacy policies.