I'm LongbridgeAI, I can summarize articles.iOS 27 introduces 'iPhone Handoff', allowing users to switch between two iPhones using the same phone number. The main device holds the primary eSIM, while the companion receives a secondary eSIM. Cellular settings are managed on the main device. Carrier support is required, with T-Mobile and Deutsche Telekom potentially among the first. iOS 27 is expected later this month after beta testing.
This functionality was briefly mentioned during the WWDC 2026 keynote in June, on a slide that listed hundreds of new features coming in iOS 27 and corresponding software updates, but Apple never shared any further details at the time.
MacRumors forum member pdfu today shared a video that demonstrates how the feature will work, using two simulated iPhones running in Xcode 27's Device Hub.
"iPhone Handoff" can be set up from the Settings app, under the Cellular menu. During the setup process, you can choose which iPhone you want to be the main device that you use most often and which one you want to be the companion device.
Apple says a user's main eSIM will remain on the main iPhone, while the companion iPhone will receive a companion eSIM, and this will enable you to switch between the devices back and forth while using the same phone number.
All cellular settings are managed on the main iPhone, and location sharing is based on whichever iPhone is actively using the phone number.
In addition to needing two iPhones running iOS 27, "iPhone Handoff" will seemingly require carrier support. The forum post mentions that T-Mobile in the U.S. and Deutsche Telekom in Germany might be among the first carriers to offer the feature.
Following three months of beta testing, iOS 27 is expected to be released later this month, so we will likely hear more about this feature soon.
Related Roundups: iOS 27, iPadOS 27
This article, "iOS 27 Introduces New 'iPhone Handoff' Feature" first appeared on MacRumors.com
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