Apple launches iPhone Handoff to share one phone number across two devices

Apple has launched "iPhone Handoff" in iOS 27, a feature that enables users to share a single phone number across two different iPhones. The system facilitates a seamless transition between devices by designating one as the "main" and the other as a "companion."

Announced alongside the debut of the iPhone 18 Pro and the foldable iPhone Duo, the system allows users to switch between two iPhone models while maintaining the same phone number. Users can manage this configuration directly through the Cellular menu within the Settings app. At launch, carrier support is limited to T-Mobile in the United States and Deutsche Telekom in Germany.

A shift in cellular identity

For years, Apple's Handoff technology has allowed users to move active tasks—such as emails or web browsing—between an iPhone, iPad, and Mac. This update marks the first time the company has extended the concept to cellular identity between two iPhones. Previously, power users carrying multiple devices were forced to manage separate phone numbers or undergo the manual process of porting a number from one device to another to maintain a single point of contact.

Apple first teased the capability in June during WWDC 2026, signaling a move toward deeper integration for users who operate multiple handsets simultaneously.

Impact on power users

This integration removes a significant friction point for professionals and enthusiasts who utilize specialized hardware alongside a daily driver. By allowing a secondary device to act as a companion, Apple provides a level of multi-device cellular integration that the company claims surpasses current Android capabilities. This is particularly relevant with the introduction of the iPhone Duo, as users can now maintain a consistent identity while switching between a standard slab phone and a foldable form factor.

What to watch

While the feature is now live for select users, the primary limitation remains carrier adoption. With only T-Mobile and Deutsche Telekom providing initial support, the global utility of iPhone Handoff depends on how quickly other major telecommunications providers implement the necessary backend infrastructure. It remains to be seen which other carriers will join the rollout in the coming months to expand the feature's reach.