Slack scheduled messaging comes to PC and phones — here's how it works

Slack
(Image credit: Snappa)

Popular workplace chat app Slack is launching a new messaging feature that allows users to schedule messages at a specific date and time. Say goodbye to random work notifications when you're not on the clock.

Widely used as by businesses, important messages can now be scheduled to send at any time in the future. The feature is gradually being rolled out to both the desktop and smartphone app, so expect the function to appear soon. 

According to the announcement, users will also be able to view, edit and manage the scheduled messages, including having the ability to immediately send the message and to cancel or reschedule it. 

How to schedule a message on Slack 

Once the feature pops up on the platform, you'll finally be able to send messages in the future. Sort of.

To schedule a message on a desktop, click on the "compose button" to start a new message, or open a conversation where the message will be sent.

From there, type the message you want to send and click on the "˄" arrow symbol that should be placed next to the paper plane icon used to send messages. You will then be able to choose a date and time from the list or select "Custom time" to set.

On the smartphone app, navigate to the home tab and click on the "compose button" or simply open an existing conversation. Once you've typed the message, tap and hold the paper plane icon to bring up the scheduled messaging feature. Like the desktop platform, you'll be able to pick a date and time.

Slack isn't the only messaging platform with newly introduced features, as Microsoft Teams is rolling out a new layout in Teams Rooms, along with improvements for its video chat meetings. 

Darragh Murphy
Editor

Darragh Murphy is fascinated by all things bizarre, which usually leads to assorted coverage varying from washing machines designed for AirPods to the mischievous world of cyberattacks. Whether it's connecting Scar from The Lion King to two-factor authentication or turning his love for gadgets into a fabricated rap battle from 8 Mile, he believes there’s always a quirky spin to be made. With a Master’s degree in Magazine Journalism from The University of Sheffield, along with short stints at Kerrang! and Exposed Magazine, Darragh started his career writing about the tech industry at Time Out Dubai and ShortList Dubai, covering everything from the latest iPhone models and Huawei laptops to massive Esports events in the Middle East. Now, he can be found proudly diving into gaming, gadgets, and letting readers know the joys of docking stations for Laptop Mag.