The Best Second Phone Number App for iPhone

The Best Second Phone Number App for iPhone

Getting a second number on your iPhone doesn’t mean buying another device or adding another line. A second phone number app lets you make calls and send texts using a separate number, so you can keep your personal contact information private.

This can be incredibly helpful for dating, selling items online, or connecting with people you don’t know all that well. But not every app offers the same experience. Some prioritize affordability, while others give you more flexibility to choose, manage, or change your number.

Knowing what each app offers, and where it falls short, can make choosing the right one much easier. Here’s how the top options compare when it comes to features, pricing, and everyday use:

Quick Comparison: Second Phone Number Apps for iPhone

Second phone number apps vary in what they offer, from free calling and texting to additional number management and communication features. Here’s how some of the leading options for iPhone compare:

What to Look for in a Second Phone Number App for iPhone

A second phone number app should do more than give you another number. It should be easy to use, offer the features you actually need, and give you control over how you manage your calls and texts.

Calling and Texting Features

Some apps offer basic calling and texting, while others include voicemail, spam filtering, and additional tools for managing conversations. Check which features come with the plan you’re considering and whether the plan limits calls or messages.

Number Management

Being able to choose an area code, keep the same number, or change your line later can make a difference. Some providers also let you manage multiple second numbers, although this may require a separate subscription and isn’t guaranteed across platforms.

Privacy Controls

A separate number lets you communicate with new contacts without sharing your primary contact number. Look for features that help you manage unwanted calls, block contacts, and change your second number without affecting your primary line.

iPhone Compatibility and Ease of Use

Check that the app supports your iPhone’s iOS version and makes it easy to access calls, messages, and notifications. Recent App Store reviews can also highlight recurring reliability or usability issues.

The Best Second Phone Number Apps for iPhone

Burner: Best for Flexible Number Management

Burner is a second-number app that lets you call and text from a separate number, keeping your personal number private. It’s especially useful for online dating, marketplace listings, and situations where you want people to reach you without giving out your primary number.

One of Burner’s advantages is the control it offers over that second number. You can choose from available area codes, manage conversations separately, and replace your second number without changing your personal one. Burner also offers features such as custom voicemail greetings and spam blocking to help you manage incoming calls.

Burner has paid plans, so it may not be the right fit if you’re looking for a completely free second number. However, if you regularly share your contact information and want more control over those interactions, it’s a practical option.

Hushed: Best for Multiple Phone Number Options

Hushed is another second-number app that lets you add additional phone numbers for calling and texting. It offers numbers from different locations, including the United States and Canada, so it's worth considering if you have a specific area code in mind.

Hushed also supports multiple numbers on one account, so you can keep conversations separate without switching between apps. Depending on the plan, features may include voicemail, call forwarding, and customizable voicemail greetings.

Pricing is worth paying attention to. Hushed offers different plans and number packages, and the amount of calling or texting included can vary. Some options are better suited for occasional use, while others are designed for keeping a number longer. Check the renewal terms and number expiration policies before signing up.

Google Voice: Best for Google Account Integration

Google Voice offers a second phone number for calling, texting, and voicemail, with a free personal option available to eligible users in the United States. It’s particularly convenient for people who already use Google services and would prefer to manage their other number through their existing Google account.

One useful feature is voicemail transcription, which lets you read messages instead of listening to each recording. Google Voice also offers spam filtering and the ability to access calls, texts, and voicemail across supported devices.

There are a few limitations to consider, though. Google Voice’s personal service is primarily available in the U.S., and signing up generally requires an existing phone number for verification. Google also has inactivity policies that can affect whether you keep your assigned number, so it’s worth reviewing those terms if you don’t plan to use it regularly.

TextNow: Best for a Free Second Phone Number

TextNow is an option for iPhone users who want another phone number without committing to a monthly subscription. Its free service includes calls and texts to numbers in the U.S. and Canada, making it especially appealing for occasional use or anyone trying to keep costs down.

The tradeoff is that the free version includes advertisements, and certain features require an update. TextNow also offers paid options for users who want to remove ads or access additional features.

One important thing to consider is number retention. TextNow may reclaim free numbers that haven’t been updated regularly, so it’s not necessarily the right choice if you plan to leave your second number inactive for long periods. If keeping the same number matters, review the current activity requirements and paid number-retention options before signing up.

How to Get a Second Phone Number on iPhone

Once you’ve chosen an app, getting a second number on your iPhone is pretty straightforward. The exact steps vary by provider, but here’s what the process generally looks like:

1. Download the app: Find your chosen second phone number app in the App Store and install it on your iPhone.
2. Create an account: Follow the sign-up instructions. Some providers may require you to verify an existing phone number or email address.
3. Choose your second number: Browse the available numbers and select an area code if the app allows it.
4. Set up your preferences: Review notification permissions, voicemail settings, and any available call management features.
5. Start calling and texting: Once your number is active, you can share it with new contacts and manage conversations through the app.

Frequently Asked Questions About Second Phone Number Apps for iPhone

Can You Have Two Numbers on One iPhone Without Dual SIM?

Yes, a second phone number app lets you use another number on your iPhone without setting up Dual SIM or adding another carrier line. You can manage calls and texts through the app while still using your primary number.

Can You Use iMessage With a Second Phone Number App?

Generally, no. Most second phone number apps handle texting within their own apps rather than through Apple’s iMessage service. To use a phone number with iMessage, it typically needs to be associated with an eligible cellular line on your iPhone.

Will a Second Phone Number App Work If You Switch iPhones?

Many services let you sign in to your account on a new iPhone and keep using your existing number. However, number retention and device-switching policies vary, so check your provider’s requirements before changing devices.

Can You Use a Second Phone Number for Apple ID Verification?

Not necessarily. Apple has specific requirements for trusted phone numbers used for two-factor authentication, and some app-based numbers may not reliably receive the verification messages you need. Don’t make a second-number app your only recovery method unless you’ve confirmed it works with your Apple Account.

Get a Second Phone Number for Your iPhone With Burner

Burner makes getting a second number on your iPhone simple. No additional device or carrier line required. Just choose your number and start calling and texting while you keep your personal contact information private.

With features like spam blocking, custom voicemail greetings, and flexible number management, Burner gives you more control over who can reach you and how you handle your conversations. It’s a practical option for dating, online marketplaces, and anywhere you’d rather not share your personal number.

Get your second iPhone number with Burner today.