Instagram is still viewed primarily as a feed of algorithmically suggested photos, but the app is also very popular for messaging. If you want to save yourself some of the stress of sending a birthday message to a friend as part of a recent update, you can do so now Schedule Instagram messages in advance. Scheduled messages cannot include media such as GIFs, photos, or videos, but you can schedule them up to 29 days in advance in both the Android and iOS versions of the app.
What are Instagram DMs?
If you’ve been using Instagram as a repository for your smartphone photos, you may have missed the launch of Instagram Direct Back in 2013, a direct messaging system was integrated directly into the Instagram app for sharing photos and videos with friends and family.
Meta has changed and connected the look, location, and functionality of Instagram DMs over the years Messenger in 2020and more recently adding Location sharing features in November 2024. Adding scheduled messages makes Instagram more compatible with messaging tools like iMessage and Gmail.
How to schedule an Instagram message
You can access DMs by tapping the arrow or chat bubble icon in the top right corner of your feed. To schedule a message, select an existing chat or create a new message by tapping the new message icon in the top right. Then fill in the text field with what you want to say and tap and hold on the blue arrow icon to the right of the text field.
Instagram will then bring up a series of dials that allow you to set the date and time you want your message to be sent. When you’re satisfied, tap the blue Send button at the bottom of the menu and the message will be scheduled.
How to delete a scheduled Instagram message
If you change your mind about a scheduled message, you can delete it directly from your chat. In a chat, tap the small “Scheduled Messages” text above the text field. Then tap and hold the message you want to delete. Tap “Delete” in the drop-down menu that appears to remove the message.
How to edit an Instagram scheduled message
If you want to edit your message instead of deleting it, things get more complicated. It became possible Edit normal Instagram messages in March 2024, but editing a scheduled message is currently not possible. However, there is a way to achieve the same effect if you’re willing to put in a little more work.
First, open the chat that contains the scheduled message you want to edit. Then tap “Scheduled Messages” at the bottom of the screen above the text box. Find the message you want to edit, then tap and hold on it. Tap “Copy” in the menu to copy the text to your clipboard. Then repeat the process and tap “Delete.”
Paste your copied message into the text field of your existing chat or a new message. Edit it as you wish, then tap and hold the blue arrow to the right of the text box to schedule it again for the date and time you want. Tap the “Submit” button at the bottom of the menu to schedule the appointment.
