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If you're wondering, what is Apple Handoff, it's a very simple and convenient way to work on the same project on any of your Apple devices. This means you can start working on one device, and transfer to another device to continue working. Here's how to use Handoff.
Why You'll Love This Tip
- If you have multiple Apple devices, take advantage of them by using Handoff to work seamlessly between them.
- Start a project on one device and finish it on another nearby device.
- You can use Handoff with your Mac, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Watch.
How to Set Up Apple Handoff
First, be sure to check out Apple's Continuity system requirements. Handoff is a newer feature that may not be compatible with older devices. If you like tips about using your Apple devices, be sure to check out our free Tip of the Day! Here's Handoff on iPhone:
Important Note:
- To use this tip, you'll need an iPhone 5 or newer running iOS 8 or later. Your Mac should be running macOS Yosemite or later. All Apple Watch models can use Handoff.
- First, make sure all your Apple devices are signed in with the same Apple ID.
- Next, make sure they are all connected to Wi-Fi.
- Then, turn on Bluetooth for all devices and ensure they are within 33ft (10m) of each other.
Set Up Handoff on iPhone and iPad
- On your iPhone or iPad, tap Settings.
![On your iPhone or iPad, tap Settings.]()
- Tap General.
![Tap General.]()
- Tap AirPlay & Handoff.
![Tap AirPlay & Handoff.]()
- Toggle Handoff on. It will be green and to the right when enabled.
![Toggle Handoff to on. It will be green when enabled.]()
Set Up Mac Handoff
- On your Mac, open System Settings.
![On your Mac, open System Settings.]()
- Click General.
![Click General.]()
- Click AirDrop & Handoff
![Click AirDrop & Handoff]()
- Toggle Allow Handoff between this Mac and your iCloud devices on. It will be blue and to the right when enabled.
![Toggle Allow Handoff between this Mac and your iCloud devices on. It will be blue when enabled.]()
Set Up Handoff on Apple Watch
- On your iPhone, open the Apple Watch app.
![On your iPhone, open the Apple Watch app.]()
- Tap General.
![Tap General.]()
- Toggle Enable Handoff on. It will be green and to the right when enabled.
![Toggle Enable Handoff to on. It will be green when enabled.]()
How to Handoff from iPhone to Mac
To see an example of what Handoff looks like from the Mac to iPhone, follow the steps below. But remember that you can use Handoff with any of your devices as long as you've followed the steps above. Do note that Handoff doesn't work with everything, but as of fall 2022 Handoff is supported by the following apps:
- Calendar
- Contacts
- Keynote
- Maps
- Numbers
- Reminders
- Safari
- Pages
For this example, I will be using the Chrome app on my iPhone to transfer to my Mac.
- On your iPhone, open an app that supports Handoff.
![On your iPhone, open an app that supports Handoff.]()
- On your Mac, you will see that app appear in the Recent Apps section of the Dock with a small icon indicating what device you are using it on. Click it.
![On your Mac, you will see that app appear in the Recent Apps section of the Dock with a small icon indicating what device you are using it on. Click it.]()
- It will automatically open to that page on whatever app you're using.
![It will automatically open to that page on whatever app you're using.]()
And there you have it! Now you can start a project on your iPhone and, when it gets more complicated than you first anticipated, easily transfer it to your Mac or iPad to work on a bigger screen. Or, maybe you started your Apple Maps journey on your Mac and want to take it on the go with your iPhone. Either way, Handoff has you covered.
