Verizon to Charge $10 Monthly for iPhone Handoff, Double T-Mobile's Price

Verizon plans to offer Apple's iPhone Handoff feature for iOS 27, but it will charge subscribers $10 per month, according to Engadget. The carrier says the service is "coming soon" to its network and also announced the iPhone Duo. T-Mobile already offers the feature in the US at $5 per month and Deutsche Telekom provides it in Germany.

iPhone Handoff allows two devices to use the same eSIM number, provided both run iOS 27 and are signed into the same Apple ID. The devices cannot use the number simultaneously; the user must choose which iPhone is actively using the shared line at any given time. Switching primary devices is possible whenever needed, and calls, messages, and Find My data automatically move to the iPhone in use. iCloud backups are synced across both devices.

To set up the feature, users go to Settings > Cellular > Set up Cellular or Add eSIM on the newer phone, then select iPhone > Continue > Transfer. To switch between the two iPhones, the user unlocks the device they want to start using. A message reading "Switched to this iPhone" appears at the top of the screen. Apple recommends setting passcodes on both iPhones to control which one is actively using the number.

The cost difference between Verizon and T-Mobile is notable. Verizon's price is twice that of T-Mobile's US offering for the same feature. Engadget's report does not explain the reason for the pricing gap, nor does it detail any additional benefits Verizon might provide.

For daily use, the feature could simplify carrying two iPhones, such as one for work and one for personal use. Instead of juggling two numbers or forwarding calls, a user can move the same number between devices as needed. The automatic transfer of calls, messages, and Find My data means the active phone stays current without manual reconfiguration.

The limitation is that only one phone can use the number at a time, so the user must decide which device is primary at any moment. This could be inconvenient if someone wants to receive calls on both phones simultaneously, but it aligns with the design of a handoff feature rather than a multi-device ring service.

The setup process appears straightforward, relying on existing eSIM settings. The passcode requirement adds a layer of security, ensuring that only the user can switch the active device.

Who should consider this? People who already own two iPhones and want to share one number might find the feature useful, but the monthly fee from Verizon is higher than T-Mobile's. The value depends on how often the user needs to switch devices and whether the convenience justifies the cost. Engadget's report does not include details on device compatibility beyond iOS 27 and same Apple ID, nor does it mention availability dates or regional restrictions for Verizon's offering.

The announcement also included the iPhone Duo, but the source material does not describe what that product is. Without further information, it is unclear how the Duo relates to Handoff or whether it is a separate service.

Overall, Verizon's pricing makes iPhone Handoff a premium option compared to T-Mobile. The feature itself addresses a specific need for users managing two iPhones, but the $10 monthly charge may deter some. As with any carrier service, users should check coverage and terms before subscribing.