The feature arrived in brief at WWDC and was shown in more detail during Apple’s September 9 event. Once configured, Handoff allows calls and messages to arrive on either iPhone, lets some Wallet payment cards be available on both devices, and integrates with most apps and iCloud so the active, unlocked handset becomes the working device.
Handoff requires two iPhones running iOS 27 or later, both signed into the same Apple account for iCloud, FaceTime and iMessage, and connected to the same Wi‑Fi network. One handset is designated the primary device and controls the carrier settings and main eSIM, although it is possible to use each phone’s eSIM if both are on participating carriers. Activating the feature is meant to be simple: place the two phones next to each other, unlock one, open Settings then Cellular and follow the prompts to assign the number to both devices.
Support is limited at launch. So far only T‑Mobile in the US and Telekom in Germany have confirmed they will enable iPhone Handoff. T‑Mobile charges an additional $5 monthly for the capability. Apple also notes several limits: Handoff does not automatically move a paired Apple Watch between devices, some Wallet items such as IDs and passes are not supported, and if you permanently replace a phone you must transfer the eSIM to the new handset. To fully disable Handoff, users must contact their carrier.
The feature will appeal to people migrating between old and new phones, travellers who prefer carrying a cheaper spare device, and professionals who switch regularly between work and personal handsets. For most iPhone owners the practical barrier remains carrier participation and the need to manage eSIM transfers when changing devices.
