How to send an automatic text on iPhone 13: A step-by-step guide

|

Ted Stinson

Sending an automatic text on your iPhone 13 can be a real lifesaver when you’re busy or need to send a message at a specific time. This feature allows you to schedule texts to be sent at a later time or date, ensuring that you don’t forget to send an important message. It’s like having a personal assistant right in your pocket! And the best part? It’s pretty easy to set up.

Step by Step Tutorial on How to Send an Automatic Text on iPhone 13

Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about what we’re going to do. We’ll be using the Shortcuts app, which is built into your iPhone 13, to create an automation that sends a text at a time you specify. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Open the Shortcuts App

Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone 13. It’s the app with the icon that looks like two squares stacked on top of each other.

This app comes pre-installed on your iPhone, so you don’t need to download anything new. If you can’t find it, swipe down from the middle of your home screen and type "Shortcuts" into the search bar.

Step 2: Create a New Automation

Tap on the "Automation" tab at the bottom of the screen, then tap on the "+" icon in the top right corner to create a new automation.

This is where the magic happens. Automations are essentially a set of instructions that tell your iPhone what to do and when to do it.

Step 3: Choose "Create Personal Automation"

On the New Automation screen, select "Create Personal Automation."

Personal Automations are automations that only run on your device, as opposed to Home Automations that can control smart home devices.

Step 4: Set the Trigger for Your Automation

Choose the trigger for your automation. This could be a certain time of day, an event in the calendar, or even when you stop an alarm.

For sending an automatic text, you’ll likely want to choose "Time of Day." This allows you to specify the exact time you want the text to be sent.

Step 5: Select the Action for Your Automation

After setting the trigger, tap "Add Action" then search for and select "Send Message."

The "Send Message" action is what tells your iPhone to send a text. You’ll be able to choose who the text goes to and what it says in the next step.

Step 6: Customize the Message

Type out the message you want to send and select the recipient. Then, tap "Next."

Make sure you have the correct contact selected – you wouldn’t want to send a "Happy Birthday" text to your boss instead of your friend!

Step 7: Review and Enable Your Automation

Review your automation to make sure everything looks right. Toggle off "Ask Before Running" if you want the text to send without asking you first, then tap "Done."

And that’s it! Your iPhone will now send the text at the specified time without you having to do anything else.

After completing these steps, your iPhone will automatically send out the text at the time you’ve set. This can be incredibly handy for things like reminding a friend about a meeting, sending a birthday wish right at midnight, or confirming an appointment. Just remember that your phone does need to be turned on and have a network connection for the text to send successfully.

Tips on How to Send an Automatic Text on iPhone 13

  • Make sure the Shortcuts app has access to send messages. You can check this in the Settings app under "Shortcuts."
  • If you want the automation to repeat, you can set it to do so in the trigger settings.
  • You can create multiple automations for different messages and times.
  • If you change your mind, you can easily disable or delete the automation in the Shortcuts app.
  • Remember, automations will only work if your phone is on and connected to a network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I send automatic texts to multiple people at once?

Yes, you can add multiple recipients in the "Send Message" action of your automation.

Does my phone need to be unlocked for the text to send?

No, your phone can be locked, but it does need to be turned on and have a network connection.

What happens if I’m on a phone call when the text is scheduled to send?

The text will still be sent as long as you have a network connection.

Can I include images or attachments in automatic texts?

Currently, the "Send Message" action only supports text. However, you can use other apps or services to send images or attachments automatically.

Can I use this feature to send WhatsApp messages or messages in other apps?

No, the automation feature for automatic texts only works with the iPhone’s native Messages app.

Summary

  1. Open the Shortcuts app.
  2. Create a new automation.
  3. Choose "Create Personal Automation."
  4. Set the time of day trigger.
  5. Add the "Send Message" action.
  6. Customize the message and choose the recipient.
  7. Review and enable your automation.

Conclusion

Setting up automatic texts on your iPhone 13 is a breeze with the built-in Shortcuts app. Whether you’re scheduling reminders, birthdays wishes, or just trying to be more organized, this feature can save you time and ensure you never miss sending an important message. Plus, with the ability to customize messages and recipients, the possibilities are nearly endless. Just remember to double-check your automations and keep your phone connected to a network. Now that you know how to send an automatic text on iPhone 13, you’ll be a messaging pro in no time!