Apple has simplified the process of using two iPhones with a single number.

Apple has simplified the process of using two iPhones with a single number.

      Rachit Agarwal / Digital Trends

      Using two iPhones has usually presented a clear problem: your phone number is generally associated with just one of them. You can transfer an eSIM between devices, employ different workarounds, or simply accept that one phone will be your primary iPhone while the other mainly connects to Wi-Fi. Apple seems to have a much more streamlined solution set to arrive in iOS 27.

      A new feature called iPhone Handoff will allow you to switch between two iPhones while maintaining the same phone number on both devices. Apple initially hinted at this feature during WWDC 2026 in June, but it was easily overlooked as it was showcased alongside many other new features for iOS 27. Now, a video shared by MacRumors forum user pdfu demonstrates how the feature is expected to operate, using two simulated iPhones in Xcode 27’s Device Hub.

      One number, two iPhones

      Configuring iPhone Handoff appears to be quite simple. You’ll find the option within the Cellular section of the Settings app, where you can set one iPhone as your main device and the other as your companion device. The primary eSIM resides on the main iPhone, while the second phone receives what Apple refers to as a companion eSIM, allowing the same number to function across both devices.

      Pdfu / MacRumors

      Crucially, this process does not seem to involve cloning your cellular setup onto a second phone. The primary iPhone still manages the cellular settings, and the companion device is essentially linked to it. Apple will also manage location sharing dynamically; instead of permanently linking your location to the main phone, your shared location will vary depending on which iPhone is currently using the number. This could make it feel more seamless to switch phones, particularly if you frequently alternate between a personal device and a work phone.

      Your carrier still needs to cooperate

      There is one limitation: Apple cannot implement this independently. In addition to requiring two iPhones running iOS 27, iPhone Handoff will likely depend on carrier support. The forum post suggests T-Mobile in the US and Deutsche Telekom in Germany might be among the first carriers to adopt this feature, although Apple has yet to provide an official list. Consequently, availability may differ significantly based on your location and network provider.

      Rachit Agarwal / Digital Trends

      We shouldn’t have to wait long for more information. Apple is anticipated to launch iOS 27 later this month following approximately three months of beta testing, which should clarify which carriers and iPhones will support Handoff upon release. While it may not be significant for everyone, for those who regularly carry two iPhones, having the ability to use either without considering which phone holds your number could be among the most beneficial updates in iOS 27.

      Shimul is a contributor at Digital Trends, boasting over five years of experience in the technology sector.

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Apple has simplified the process of using two iPhones with a single number.

iOS 27 may simplify the process of managing two iPhones. With iPhone Handoff, you can alternate between devices while maintaining the same phone number.