Apple makes it easy for iPhone owners to answer calls and texts using an iMac, an iPad, and even an Apple Watch. In fact, any modern Apple device with a screen has this ability. This means an iPhone can stay in a pocket, bag, or facedown on a desk while a call is taken elsewhere. An SMS text message that is commonly used by Android smartphones is supported on these Apple devices, allowing easy communication without picking up the iPhone.

The iPhone supports real-time text (RTT), which combines voice and text during calls without the need for teletype (TTY) devices. This enables easy use of an iPhone for communication with those with hearing impairments. Apple also supports RTT with its Continuity features, allowing most newer iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices to access and respond to a call without needing to pick up the iPhone. Using RTT with a larger on-screen keyboard or a physical keyboard might make typing much faster and easier.

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As Apple explains, Mac computer owners that also use an iPhone have the ability to pick up phone calls via their computer. Each device should be signed in using the same Apple ID in FaceTime and the same network must be used, connecting via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. The iPhone needs to be set up to allow 'Calls on Other Devices,' which is a toggle switch in the Phone section on the Settings app. To accept calls on a Mac, the FaceTime app preferences have an option to accept 'Calls From iPhone.' With an iPad or iPod Touch, this is found in the Settings app under the FaceTime section. After this brief bit of preparation, phone calls will ring on all devices that have been enabled. Outgoing calls can also be made by using the FaceTime app and selecting a contact number or typing it in. Phone calls ring on a paired Apple Watch by default and calls can be placed via the Phone app. With any of these devices, communication is routed just like real phone calls and uses cellular minutes unless using a carrier that supports Wi-Fi calling. Apple also explains that sending and receiving texts on another Apple device is also possible.

Apple Device SMS Text & Compatibility

Apple iPhone SMS texts via Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch

Answering iPhone calls on an iMac or an iPad is very convenient, particularly when referencing information on those devices for the call. Texting is also possible and allows the use of the larger keyboards that come with bigger devices. While Apple's relatively new QuickPath technology makes swiping in text messages on an iPhone faster, autocorrect can still be a problem. SMS texts will appear in the Messages app on every device that is enabled in the Settings. iMessages are also possible through this app, which is specific to other Apple device users and counts as data rather than a text message in carrier plans. iMessages have special features, such as end-to-end encryption, so it's usually a good idea to leave the iMessages toggle enabled.

In order to accept iPhone calls and SMS texts on another Apple device, iOS 8.1 or newer is required on an iPhone. Also, an activated cellular plan is necessary since the iPhone is used to route communication from the Mac, iPad, or Apple Watch. Any iPad or iPod touch with iOS 8 or later and any Mac computer or MacBook with OS X Yosemite or newer is compatible. An Apple Watch with watchOS 5 or newer can also answer iPhone calls and respond to SMS texts. This is another example of Apple's tight integration of operating systems and devices making the whole greater than the sum of the parts for those that own more than one of its products. Taking iPhone calls and texts on an iMac or other Apple device is a convenient and inviting perk that makes the experience feel more cohesive and worthwhile.

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Sources: Apple 1, 2