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Apple’s iPhone Handoff Feature Launches with iOS 27, T-Mobile Adds $5 Monthly Fee
By Drooid · · How we work
New iPhone Handoff Feature Introduced with iOS 27
Apple announced iPhone Handoff as part of iOS 27, a capability that lets a single eSIM number be used on two iPhones. The feature will first be offered to T-Mobile customers in the United States and to Deutsche Telekom subscribers in Germany. Apple states that the two devices cannot operate with the same number simultaneously; users select which phone is active and can switch at any time. Calls, voicemail, messages, Find My, iCloud data, and supported third-party apps automatically follow the active device.
T-Mobile’s Additional $5 Monthly Charge
T-Mobile has disclosed that subscribers who wish to enable iPhone Handoff will be billed an extra $5 per month. The carrier’s announcement ties the fee directly to the use of the dual-device eSIM functionality. No other carriers have been mentioned as offering the feature or a comparable charge.
How the Feature Works Across Devices
Activation requires both iPhones to run iOS 27 and be signed into the same Apple ID. Users can set up Handoff through the Settings app on an existing device or during the initial setup of a new iPhone by navigating to Cellular -> Set up Cellular or Add eSIM, then selecting the partner iPhone and following on-screen prompts. After unlocking the chosen device, a banner reading “Switched to this iPhone” confirms the active line.
Potential Impact on Users and Carrier Landscape
The ability to share a single number across two iPhones may simplify device upgrades and reduce the need for separate plans, but the added $5 monthly cost could deter price-sensitive customers. Analysts note that the fee reflects carriers’ broader trend of monetizing advanced eSIM features, while Apple’s rollout—scheduled for September 14—positions the company to capitalize on growing consumer interest in seamless multi-device experiences.
