Apple is rolling out a new software capability called iPhone Handoff, allowing users to share a single phone number across two iPhones without swapping physical SIM cards, forwarding calls, or paying for a secondary cellular line, according to reports from MacRumors.
How iPhone Handoff Works Across Two Devices
According to MacRumors, the feature is included in iOS 27 after a brief preview during the WWDC keynote. A demonstration shared by MacRumors using simulated iPhones in Xcode 27’s Device Hub outlines the setup process. Users can configure the feature directly from the Settings app under the Cellular menu. During setup, users designate one iPhone as the primary device and the second as a companion device. The primary eSIM profile remains on the main iPhone, while a linked companion eSIM is generated for the second phone.
Centralized control remains anchored to the primary device. According to MacRumors, all cellular plans and account settings are managed exclusively from the main iPhone. Furthermore, location sharing automatically follows whichever iPhone is actively carrying the line at that moment, meaning contacts viewing a user’s location in Find My see the active phone’s location.
Carrier Support and Release Timeline
Running iOS 27 on both devices is a prerequisite, but the feature also relies heavily on telecom carrier infrastructure, mirroring how cellular provisioning works for the Apple Watch, according to MacRumors. Tech.sportskeeda.com notes that carrier bundles for T-Mobile in the US and Deutsche Telekom in Germany show early support, though enrollment is not yet active. Apple previewed the software update during its June keynote, with a public rollout expected following a beta testing period, as reported by MacRumors and Gadget Hacks.
Pro Tip: When the feature rolls out publicly, setting up iPhone Handoff will require navigating to your Settings, selecting Cellular, and designating your primary and companion devices according to the on-screen prompts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is iPhone Handoff in iOS 27?
According to MacRumors, iPhone Handoff is an iOS 27 feature that lets users share a single phone number across two iPhones using a primary eSIM and a linked companion eSIM.
Do I need a second cellular plan to use two iPhones with one number?
No. According to MacRumors, the feature lets you share a single phone number across two devices without paying for a second cellular line.
Which carriers are expected to support iPhone Handoff?
Early findings cited by tech.sportskeeda.com indicate that carriers such as T-Mobile in the US and Deutsche Telekom in Germany are among the first showing support in carrier bundles.
How do I set up iPhone Handoff?
According to MacRumors, setup takes place in the Settings app under the Cellular menu, where you designate one iPhone as the main device and the second as a companion device.
What are your thoughts on sharing one phone number across two iPhones? Let us know in the comments below, and subscribe to our newsletter for more iOS 27 updates.
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