iPhone Handoff is one of the new features in iOS 27. It lets two iPhones share a single phone number, so you can switch between them without moving a SIM or giving people a second number. It needs support from your carrier. In the U.S., T-Mobile has it now, Verizon plans to add it by the end of 2026, and AT&T hasn't committed.
How iPhone Handoff works
You set up one iPhone as your main phone and a second as a companion. After that, whichever one you unlock becomes the active phone, and your calls, texts, voicemail and Find My location follow it. Only one phone is active at a time.
It's aimed at people who own two iPhones for different jobs, such as an iPhone Duo for everyday use and a Pro Max for photos, or an older phone kept for camping and travel.
Which carriers support it
| Carrier | Status | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile | Available now | $5/mo |
| Verizon | Coming by the end of 2026 | Not announced |
| AT&T | Not supported, no date given | N/A |
T-Mobile says the second iPhone can use the same number for calls, texts and cellular data. Hotspot, Scam Shield and T-Satellite also work on eligible plans.
What AT&T said
An AT&T spokesperson told CNET: "While we see that there could be potential in capabilities like iPhone Handoff, our focus remains on delivering innovations that make life simpler and keep customers connected with confidence." That doesn't rule it out later, but there's no date.
AT&T already offers eSIM transfer, which moves your line from one iPhone to another, and NumberSync, which lets other devices use your number. Neither does what Handoff does. eSIM transfer is a one-off move, and NumberSync doesn't make a second iPhone your active phone.
If you want Handoff now
T-Mobile is the only U.S. option today, at $5 a month on top of your plan. If you're on AT&T and Handoff is the reason you bought a second iPhone, test T-Mobile's network first with its free trial, which runs alongside your current line. We haven't seen any prepaid carrier confirm support yet.
Every carrier trial still running, with length, data and what each one requires.
See all free trials →
Jean Gilles has researched personal finance, consumer technology, and wireless pricing for over a decade. He founded ShopCellPlans in 2019 and writes every review on the site.
Frequently asked questions
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