Apple last week launched a new iPhone Handoff feature, which lets you use a single phone number across two iPhones. The number intelligently moves between each iPhone based on whichever one you pick up.
iPhone Handoff requires support from cellular carriers, and it sounds like AT&T isn’t interested in adopting the feature.
Will AT&T support iPhone Handoff?
As reported by CNET, AT&T seemingly has no plans to support iPhone Handoff. According to the report:
“While we see that there could be potential in capabilities like iPhone Handoff,” the spokesperson replied, “our focus remains on delivering innovations that make life simpler and keep customers connected with confidence.” They then pointed to “existing eSIM activation and transfer options across compatible devices.”
This will be upsetting news AT&T subscribers. The carrier’s emphasis on “existing eSIM activation and transfer options” seemingly indicates it doesn’t have a complete grasp on how iPhone Handoff works, and why it’s significantly more seamless than manually moving an eSIM back and forth between two iPhone models.
I’ve been using iPhone Handoff for the last week while testing the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, and it really does feel like magic. As Apple promised, my number instantly switches to whichever iPhone I pick up.
Top comment by IndomitableSlake
This won’t be as severe as GM’s CarPlay moment, but it’s in the same category.
It is a bummer that T-Mobile is charging $5 per month for iPhone Handoff, though it’s not necessarily surprising. It’s still significantly cheaper than having a second cellular plan altogether.
As of right now, T-Mobile is the only carrier in the United States to support iPhone Handoff. Apple says that Verizon will add support by the end of the year, “with more carriers to follow.” Outside the United States, Telekom Germany is a launch partner for the feature. Apple says EE will add support by the end of the year.
Have you tried iPhone Handoff yet? Is it a feature you’ll use on a regular basis? Let us know down in the comments.
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