A programmable cellular telephone activates selected functions based on a user modifiable schedule, The user stores schedule information in a schedule table for automatic function activation/deactivation. A controller controls all cellular telephone functions, and comprises a memory and a clock. The controller also comprises an automatic scheduler which activates and deactivates cellular telephone functions according to the entries in the schedule table. Cellular telephone functions are activated and deactivated either manually or when the automatic scheduler is enabled and the real time corresponds with the scheduled time in the schedule table. By using the scheduler, a user can select time periods when calls are receivable without having to remember to turn on the cellular phone, extending battery life and minimizing unwanted interruptions.