Apple has introduced a new feature in iOS 27 called “iPhone Handoff.” It lets you switch between two iPhones and keep the same phone number on both devices.
During the WWDC 2026 keynote in June, Apple mentioned this feature, showing it on a slide with many other new features for iOS 27 and related updates. However, they did not provide any more details at that time.
Today, MacRumors forum member pdfu shared a video showing how the feature works. The video uses two simulated iPhones running in Xcode 27’s Device Hub.
You can set up “iPhone Handoff” in the Settings app under the Cellular menu. During setup, you choose which iPhone will be your main device and which will be the companion device.
According to Apple, your main eSIM stays on the main iPhone, and the companion iPhone gets a companion eSIM. This lets you switch between devices while keeping the same phone number.
You manage all cellular settings on the main iPhone. Location sharing depends on which iPhone is currently using the phone number.
Besides needing two iPhones with iOS 27, “iPhone Handoff” will likely need support from your carrier. The forum post says T-Mobile in the U.S. and Deutsche Telekom in Germany could be among the first to offer it.
After three months of beta testing, iOS 27 is expected to launch later this month. We will probably learn more about this feature soon.
