Apple is making it easier to use the same phone number across two iPhones with a new iOS 27 feature called Handoff.
The feature, uncovered in more detail by X user @itspdfu, allows a phone number to be associated with two iPhones. The SIM or eSIM remains installed on one device, while the cellular connection can be handed over to the other.
The switch is surprisingly simple. Once Handoff is enabled on both iPhones, unlocking one device makes it the active phone. That iPhone can then use the cellular connection for calls and mobile data.
The feature does require carrier support. T-Mobile in the US is one example of a carrier supporting the feature, meaning availability will depend on individual operators and markets.
This could be particularly interesting with Apple’s expected first foldable iPhone. A foldable iPhone would offer a much larger screen, making it useful for multitasking, reading, gaming and watching videos. But users may not always want to carry a larger and potentially more expensive device.
With Handoff, you could keep the foldable for situations where its large screen matters and switch to a regular iPhone when you want something smaller. There would be no need to maintain a second phone number or manually move an eSIM between devices.
There are other practical uses too. You could take an older iPhone for a hike or a trip instead of risking your expensive primary phone. Someone who owns multiple iPhones could also keep one as a dedicated work or travel device while still receiving calls on the same number.
This makes Handoff more useful than a simple eSIM transfer. Apple’s existing eSIM transfer tools move a number from one iPhone to another, but the old device no longer has that cellular connection. Handoff is designed around switching between two paired devices instead.
The biggest limitation will be carrier support. Apple can include the feature in iOS 27, but operators still need to enable the required network support. This could mean the feature is initially limited to a relatively small number of markets.
Still, the idea points to an interesting change in how Apple treats the iPhone. Instead of tying a phone number to one physical device, Handoff makes the number feel more like a service that can follow you between compatible iPhones.
And with Apple’s foldable iPhone expected to arrive soon, that could make owning two very different iPhones a lot more practical.
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