Apple in iOS 27 introduced iPhone Handoff, a new eSIM feature that lets you use the same number on two iPhones and swap seamlessly between them. The number is only active on one iPhone at a time, so it’s not like having two independently active lines.
It is also different from Apple’s existing Handoff feature for continuing an app task on another Apple device. Here’s what you need to know about the new iPhone Handoff feature.
What’s moving between the two iPhones?
When you change phones with iPhone Handoff, your calls, voicemails, messages (including iMessage, RCS, SMS and MMS) and Find My Location are moved to the active iPhone. You will see a “Switched to this iPhone” message on the screen to confirm the change.
Other data synced to iCloud will be automatically updated on your devices and third-party apps work on both devices, although some third-party apps may require a separate connection or take time to sync. Any banking apps you use may also ask you to approve access on the other device.
What do you need to transfer your iPhone?
Both iPhones must be running iOS 27 or later. They must also be:
- Connected to Wi-Fi
- Share the same Apple account
- Use Messages in iCloud to sync messages
- Signed in to FaceTime and iMessage with the same Apple account
iPhone Handoff works with Dual SIM as long as both eSIMs are from carriers that support iPhone Handoff. Both eSIMs must be configured separately for iPhone Handoff, one at a time. Once set up, both eSIMs switch simultaneously when you unlock your iPhone.
Which carriers support iPhone transfer?
iPhone Handoff is available through T-Mobile in the United States and Telekom in Germany. Verizon (US) and EE (UK) will support the iPhone Handoff later this year.
AT&T has not yet committed to supporting the iPhone Handoff, with a company spokesperson recently highlighting the carrier’s existing eSIM activation and handoff options.
How much does it cost to transfer an iPhone?
T-Mobile charges its customers $5 per month to use the iPhone Handoff.
In Germany, Deutsche Telekom charges €6.95 per month for iPhone Handoff, but only on plans that don’t already include multi-SIM functionality. An additional multi-SIM costs €6.95 per month (one is included with the current MagentaMobil L plan and two with XL).
No other carrier has yet announced their prices.
How to configure it?
iPhone Handoff can be enabled when setting up a new iPhone. On the “Set up cellular network” 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. Faucet Configure cell phone Or Add an eSIMchoose Use the number on this iPhone and anotherand follow the instructions. You can then choose which device is your primary iPhone (ideally, the one you use most often) and which is your secondary iPhone.
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After setup, unlock either phone to activate your number.
What do you need to know before making the switch?
If you have an Apple Watch, it won’t switch its pairing with the other device when your phone number changes, so be sure to pair it with the iPhone you plan to use the most. Additionally, some wallet items, including some travel tickets and IDs, can 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 primary 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. The steps below should be followed when your new iPhone is placed next to your existing devices that use iPhone Handoff.
- On your new (replacement) iPhone, open the Settings app.
- Faucet Cellular then press Configure cell phone Or Add an eSIM.
- Select an iPhone and tap Continue.
- Faucet Transfer. (If your carrier doesn’t support eSIM transfer from a companion iPhone, you need to sign up for iPhone Handoff again: On your iPhone you’re transferring the eSIM from, tap Continueand follow the on-screen prompts.)
- Faucet Continue.
- Follow the on-screen prompts on both devices.
The eSIM will deactivate on the old iPhone you transferred from.
What if I want to stop using iPhone Handoff?
If you want to stop using iPhone Handoff at any time, you should contact your carrier. Simply removing an eSIM from your iPhone won’t stop the carrier from charging you for the service.
