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TypeSafe AI's Jev Fuels Debate Over Fast, Non-Generative Decision ModelsiPhone Handoff lets two iPhones share one number, but only T-Mobile and Telekom support it so farWired or fixed wireless? How to choose home internet based on connection typeSeoul Stocks Open Higher on Chip Gains as Early-September Exports Jump 78%Apple's Ternus Calls iPhone Duo a Jobs Ideal; Google Gemini Test Hit Three Real FirmsCarPlay Now Supports ChatGPT, Claude and Other AI Chatbots by Voice
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iPhone Handoff lets two iPhones share one number, but only T-Mobile and Telekom support it so far

Apple's iOS 27 iPhone Handoff allows two iPhones to share one mobile number and carrier account. T-Mobile in the US and Telekom in Germany are the only confirmed carriers, with T-Mobile charging $5 monthly.

AI News Feed · 2026-09-21 10:37

Carrier support is limited. According to Engadget, only T-Mobile in the United States and Telekom in Germany have confirmed support so far, and T-Mobile charges an additional $5 monthly fee. The carrier requirement is one limitation of the feature. Engadget also reported that iPhone Handoff does not switch a paired Apple Watch between devices, and that some wallet items such as IDs and passes will not work. Most other features work across both phones.

Setting up iPhone Handoff requires two devices running iOS 27 or later. Both must be on the same Wi-Fi network and signed into the same Apple Account for iCloud, FaceTime and iMessage, Engadget reported. One phone serves as the primary phone and holds the main eSIM while managing carrier settings; the other is the secondary phone. Each phone's eSIM can also be used if both are from supporting carriers.

To set it up, users place the two iPhones next to each other and unlock one. They then open Settings, go to Cellular, and tap Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM, or iPhone Handoff if a number is already set up on the device. They choose Use Number on This iPhone and Another, tap Continue and follow the on-screen prompts to assign one device as the main iPhone, according to Engadget.

When it is time to replace one iPhone with another, the eSIM must be transferred to the new device. Apple says that disabling Handoff completely requires contacting the carrier, Engadget reported.

Using iPhone Handoff is meant to be as simple as picking up an iPhone and unlocking it. A small notification appears in the Dynamic Island just below the Wi-Fi indicator to show that the device is activated for iPhone Handoff, according to Engadget. The publication described the feature as niche but potentially useful for people moving between an old and a new iPhone, traveling with an older or less valuable device, or using a more portable or cheaper iPhone alongside a $2,000 iPhone Duo. Professionals who use different devices for work and personal life may also find it useful.

Editor's Summary

Apple's iOS 27 iPhone Handoff lets two iPhones share one number and carrier account, with calls, messages, payment cards and most apps working across both devices. T-Mobile in the US and Telekom in Germany are the only confirmed carriers so far, and T-Mobile adds a $5 monthly fee. The feature requires iOS 27, the same Wi-Fi network and Apple Account, while carrier support and some wallet and Apple Watch functions remain limited.