With its latest update, Instagram is adding a much-needed feature that many users have been asking for quite some time - the ability to schedule direct messages on the platform. The feature is currently rolling out to all users and will allow them to schedule messages up to 29 days in advance. However, it comes with the caveat that you will only be able to schedule text messages and will not be able to send photos, videos, or GIFs in this manner.

  1. To schedule a Direct Message on Instagram, open the app and tap on the 'Messenger' icon at the top right.
  2. Then tap on the chat for which you want to schedule a message.
  1. Type your message in the text box and then press and hold the 'Send' button.
  2. Now, you can select the time when you want to schedule the message and then tap on the 'Send' button.
  1. When you open a chat with scheduled messages, Instagram will show you how many messages are scheduled.
  2. You can also tap on the notification for a scheduled message and then copy it or choose whether to send it immediately or delete it.

Things to know

  • Message scheduling is already rolling out to all Instagram users and should be available on your device. If it isn't yet available, you will have to wait for an update to the app to get the feature.
  • Right now the feature is only available on the smartphone app and not on the web interface. Meta has not clarified when it will be available on the web.
  • Meta has also added several other features to Instagram to improve users' DM experience, such as the ability to edit messages, create nicknames, share live locations, and draw over photos.
  • Along with message scheduling, Instagram will also be introducing the ability to schedule posts for creators.