Apple in iOS 27 introduced iPhone Handoff, a new eSIM feature that allows using the same phone number on two iPhones and seamlessly swapping between them. The number is only active on one iPhone at a time, distinguishing it from having two independently active lines. It also differs from Apple's existing Handoff feature for continuing app tasks on another Apple device.

Both iPhones must be running iOS 27 or later, connected to Wi-Fi, sharing the same Apple Account, and using Messages in iCloud for messages sync. They must be signed into FaceTime and iMessage with the same Apple Account. iPhone Handoff works with Dual SIM as long as both eSIMs are from carriers that support the feature. Both eSIMs must be set up for iPhone Handoff separately, one at a time.

Once set up, both eSIMs switch together simultaneously when unlocking the iPhone. Which Carriers Support iPhone Handoff? iPhone Handoff is available through T-Mobile in the United States and Telekom in Germany. Verizon (U.S.) and EE (U.K.) will support iPhone Handoff later this year.

AT&T has so far not committed to supporting iPhone Handoff, with a company spokesperson recently pointing to the carrier's existing eSIM activation and transfer options instead. How Much Does iPhone Handoff Cost? T-Mobile is charging customers $5 per month to use iPhone Handoff. In Germany, Deutsche Telekom is charging €6.95 per month for iPhone Handoff, but only on plans that do not already include multi-SIM functionality.

An added multi-SIM costs €6.95 per month (one is included with the current Magenta Mobil L plan and two with XL). No other carriers have announced pricing yet. How Do You Set It Up? iPhone Handoff can be enabled when setting up a new iPhone.

At the "Set Up Cellular" screen, choose "Use Number on This iPhone and Another," then follow the prompts on both phones. If both iPhones are already set up, open Settings Cellular on the phone you want to add. Tap Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM, choose Use Number on This iPhone and Another, and follow the prompts.

You then get to choose which device is your main iPhone (ideally, the one you use most often) and which is your secondary iPhone. After setup, unlock either phone to make your number active on it. What Should You Know Before Switching? If you have an Apple Watch, it won't switch its pairing to the other device when your phone number moves, so make sure you pair it with the iPhone you expect to use most.

Also, some Wallet items, including certain transit passes and IDs, may only work on one device at a time. Carrier account management and some services like Call Forwarding and Caller ID will remain tied to your main iPhone. Can I Replace an iPhone That Uses iPhone Handoff? Yes, but you need to transfer the eSIM from either iPhone to the replacement device.