Set up Auto Reply to Text on Android? Top 4 Apps to Try
Ethan Ray Updated on Aug 22, 2025 Filed to: Android Tips
"Anybody used and can recommend android application with SMS autoresponder functionality? I'm on vacation or sick leave and I set autresponder because I want to inform specific group of contacts when i receive sms from them." -- from Reddit.
Ever been stuck in a meeting, driving, or travelling when a text arrives - and then want to let others know you were unavailable? We've all been there. That's where SMS auto-reply comes in handy.
However, the bad news is that Android devices do not come with a native auto-reply feature. Even so, there are a lot of third-party SMS auto reply apps to get the work done on Android.
Here, I've tested several popular options and handpicked the top 4 choices for you. Check them out below!
👍Editor's Recommendation:
If you want a hands-off way to auto-reply while driving on the road, opt for No Texting While Driving.
For those who need to schedule auto-replies for certain times of the day or week, I'll recommend Auto Text.
For those who need to send auto reply across multiple platforms, including social apps, IM Auto Reply would be a solid option.
If you're someone that often switches devices, Auto Message is ideal because it support cloud backup and sync.
Top 4 SMS Auto Reply Apps for Android
Without further ado, let's look at the best SMS auto reply apps for Android on the market and how to use them to set up auto-reply on your device!
Note: The following apps are free to use in their basic versions, though they do include ads. Since I wasn't able to check the pricing for their premium plans, I haven't listed that information here.
1No Texting While Driving!
As its name implies, this SMS autoresponder is ideal while you're driving. Just touching the "Activate" button, the app sends replies showing you're driving automatically.
This feature can also be turned on automatically each time you connect your phone to your car's Bluetooth. Though its default auto-reply message template is set for drivers, you can tweak the SMS auto-reply content to suit your case.
Pros
Bluetooth auto activation
Human-like default auto-reply
Allows to choose who can receive the auto reply
Cons
No option to schedule auto-reply
Limited customization
Compatibility: Regular SMS, Google RCS, WhatsApp, Messenger, and Telegram.
How to use the app to send an auto reply on Android:
Step 1.Download and install the app on Google Play Store.
Step 2.Launch the app and grant it all the necessary permissions.
Step 3.Click the "Menu" icon at the top left corner.
Step 4.Under "Reply," configure the auto-reply messages based on your needs.
Step 5.After that, go back to the homepage and tap "Touch to Activate."
2Auto Text
Auto Text is not just an SMS auto-reply app for Android. It also allows users to send bulk messages and forward texts automatically. Unlike No Texting While Driving, this app lets you create multiple auto-reply templates in advance.
Auto Text also gives you extra control. For instance, you can schedule specific periods for the SMS auto-reply to activate based on your routine. That's a big plus if you want the auto-reply to kick in during daily work hours.
It also keeps a history of sent replies within the app, which can be handy for future reference. The auto-reply feature works, but it sends duplicate responses when I tested it, resulting in double charges.
Pros
Allows multiple response templates
Can schedule delay auto reply
Flexible to customize when to reply
Supports Google backup
Can perform multiple tasks simultaneously
Cons
Limited features on free version
Compatibility: Regular SMS, Google RCS, WhatsApp, WhatsApp Business, Messenger, Telegram, Instagram, and Viber.
How to use the app to send an auto reply on Android:
Step 1.Once you've downloaded the app, open it.
Step 2.On the homepage, tap the + button and select "Auto Reply."
Step 3.Select "SMS" and grant all the necessary permission
Step 4.Input the auto-reply message template and configure related settings, such as when to reply, who can receive this, and much more.
Step 5.Then, click the "Done" icon to finish the process.
3IM Auto Reply
IM Auto Reply is different from other apps in our list. It allows you to set contact exceptions when setting up auto reply on Android. Moreover, you can set up a custom reply list based on keywords in the received messages, separating how you respond to different cases.
Though this auto responder can set only one response at a time, it logs and keeps all auto reply templates that you created, so you can choose them next time. This makes it surpass the No Texting While Driving app.
Pros
Contact exceptions
Keyword triggers reply
Supports auto reply to groups in social apps
Cons
Limited features for both the pro and free versions
How to use the app to send an auto reply on Android:
Step 1.Open the app once downloaded from Play Store.
Step 2.Grant all the relevant permissions including access to notifications.
Step 3.On the homepage, input your desired auto reply messages.
Step 4.Configure the reply rules to suit your comfort.
Step 5.At the top of the screen, select SMS or other apps.
Step 6.Press the "Power" icon at the top right to activate it.
4Auto Message
Auto Message is a platform that sends automatic replies not only when an SMS is received but also when a call is rejected or ignored. One feature I really appreciate about the app is the cloud sync with a Google account, which makes it easy for users to access their auto-reply settings on any device, wherever they are.
The app is also versatile, supporting SMS forwarding and SMS scheduling. With it, you can also schedule when each SMS auto-reply task will activate and deactivate.
Pros
Versatile and multifunctional
Cloud backup and sync
Flexible to customize when to reply
Cons
Requires constant signing in
Limited platform support
Compatibility: Regular SMS and WhatsApp
How to use the app to send an auto reply on Android:
Step 1.Install the app from Play Store and open it.
Step 2.From the menu list, tap "Settings."
Step 3.Log in using Google account.
Step 4.Back to the homepage, tap the + icon and select "Auto Reply > Reply SMS/Calls."
Step 5.Input your desired auto response message and customize other settings.
Step 6.Complete the task by pressing "Save" in the top right.
Tips for Effective Auto-Replies on Android
Sending auto-replies is easy, but making them actually work for you takes a little finesse. A boring "I'm busy" might do the job, but it won't always leave the best impression.
So, here are some simple tips to keep things clear, polite, and even a bit personal.
Schedule Auto Reply Wisely
It would make sense to schedule the auto reply to fit your daily routine or current situation. And avoid activating auto reply all day. Only activate it when you're not available, for instance, while driving, during work or meetings, or on vacation.
Keep It Clear and Concise
Your reply doesn't have to be overly complex or filled with irrelevant details. Just make it clear and concise so that people can read it quickly.
However, no auto-response app offers a one-size-fits-all reply; you'd better customize your auto replies to make them more personal before activating it.
Include an Expected Response Time
You can also include an expected response time. Doing this shows your politeness and provides reassurance in an emergency because it will let the recipient know when you're going to reply.
For instance, set your auto response as "I'm currently in a meeting and will reply by 3 PM."
Avoid Possible Message Delays
Let's assume you promised to contact someone by 3 PM in the auto reply, but your auto-reply is delayed until 4 PM due to a poor signal or network. This may confuse the recipient or make your response look robotic. So, to prevent delays, make sure your phone is always connected to a strong network signal.
Bonus: Safety & Focus While Driving for Teens
Let's face it, most teens, even with an auto-reply app on their phone, might still be tempted to use their device while driving. As a parent, you need to look beyond auto-replies and find a solution that truly keeps your little ones focused on the road.
This app comes with a focus mode and an app blocker. These two features work in synergy to eliminate all distractions from the smartphone and ensure your child remains safe while driving. It also includes location tracking, so you can ensure they're safe on the road.
To change quick reply messages on the Messages app, you'll need to:
Step 1.Tap the three dot and then "Settings."
Step 2.Select "More settings" in the menu.
Step 3.Then, go to "Quick responses." You'll see different quick responses. Tap on any and you can edit it.
Can Google assistant send text messages?
Yes, Google Assistant can send text messages to any of your contacts. All you need to do is grant it the necessary permissions and give it a clear and concise prompt. For instance, you can say, "Hey Google, send a message to Sarah."
Can Android Auto read text messages?
Yes, Android Auto can read text messages aloud while driving. When a new message arrives, just tap on the "Play Aloud" button on the dashboard.
Ethan Ray is a tech-savvy content creator with a deep passion for the Android ecosystem. With over 4 years of experience in writing in-depth tutorials, how-to guides, and app reviews, he has helped thousands of users get the most out of their Android devices.
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