Apple will introduce iPhone Handoff when iOS 27 arrives on September 14, letting people use one mobile number across two compatible iPhones. T-Mobile plans to charge US customers $5 per month for the service, while Deutsche Telekom will support it in Germany.
The feature targets people who carry two Apple handsets but want to retain a single number, as first reported by 9to5Mac. On eligible plans, the shared line supports calls, messages, cellular data, hotspot access, Scam Shield, and T-Satellite.
One number moves between paired iPhones
Users can configure the system during iPhone setup or later in Settings. Both devices must run iOS 27 or later, use the same Apple Account, and have Wi-Fi, FaceTime, iMessage, and Messages in iCloud enabled.
- Only one paired phone can be active for the shared number at any time.
- The primary and secondary roles switch when the user unlocks the other device.
- Dual SIM works when both eSIM providers support the capability.
The active-device limit means this is not a way to operate two phones simultaneously on the same number. Instead, it gives users a more direct way to move their mobile service between a personal and work device, or between phones used for different parts of the day, without changing numbers or manually transferring a physical SIM.
Some Apple services will remain tied to one device
Wallet payment cards and car keys can work on both handsets. Some transit passes, identification cards, and corporate badges may remain limited to one device, however. Apple Watch connections also will not automatically move when a user switches the active phone, which could add a manual step for people who regularly alternate devices.
Apple has not said which carriers will join T-Mobile and Deutsche Telekom after launch. It also has not specified whether every eligible T-Mobile plan will receive the $5 monthly option, or when the service will become available in either carrier’s customer accounts.
This article was produced with AI assistance from multi-source reporting and is published under our editorial standards.
