Apple, known for its device integration, announced a new feature during the launch of the new iPhones this Wednesday (10th): the ability to use a single eSIM on two iPhone devices simultaneously.
This functionality, called iPhone Handoff, was presented in the context of the iOS 27 updates, expected to be released next week. According to Kaiann Drance, Vice President of Product Marketing, the feature allows 'using a single phone number between two iPhones,' and is 'instantly activated on either of the chosen iPhones.'
Currently, iPhone Handoff is only available to users of iPhones with T-Mobile carriers in the United States and Telekom in Germany. Although new providers may add support in the future, there is no confirmed information regarding its implementation in Brazil.
Details provided on a support page indicate that with Handoff active, calls, voicemail, messages (including iMessage, RCS, and SMS), and the Find My function are immediately shared with a second device. This second device will receive a 'complementary eSIM' that shares the same number as the original, already registered on another iPhone.
Similar to transferring files or screen between an iPhone and a MacBook or iPad, the goal is to simplify the use of the chip across two different phones; simply unlocking the phone activates the mobile network. A notification on the Dynamic Island will signal this migration. From that point on, activities linked to the number, such as messages and calls, will be directed only to the device currently in use, and the data allowance will be split between the two devices.
Apple emphasizes that the device designated as primary should be the most used, as certain carrier functionalities and services are centralized on it. Additionally, pairing with other accessories, such as Apple Watches, does not happen automatically.
The eSIM sharing will be managed in the iPhone's network settings. A test conducted by a MacRumors user, simulating two iPhones, demonstrated the activation procedure through the phone's settings screen. The system allows the user to define which device will be primary and which will be secondary, and the data is transferred automatically after activation.
Apple also informed that iPhone Handoff can be activated from the initial setup of the iPhone by including the option 'Use number on this phone and on another.' Users who use two eSIMs on the same phone can also take advantage of Handoff, provided both numbers are from carriers that support the system.