Mobile operator EE last week began informing users of their Smart Number (Shared Number) service that they will discontinue support for Apple’s iPad and MacBook devices on 9th December 2024. The service gives customers the ability to make and receive calls and texts using the same number across multiple devices.
The Smart Number service was originally launched back in June 2018 (here), although users of this feature were recently surprised when they received the following message (credits to one of our readers, Charles, for sharing): “We wanted to let you know that, from 09 December, you’ll no longer be able to use your EE shared number service on MacBooks and iPads. Watch functionality, along with the Apple-provided iCloud number-sharing function, won’t be affected. We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused by this update.”
ISPreview understands that individual users and call volumes for this service have been low for a number of years, which probably helps to explain why EE might wish to move away from it. Customers affected by the change may of course be able to use the iCloud service, housed within Apple, as an alternative.
An EE spokesperson told ISPreview:
“From 9th December 2024, the ability to use our shared number service on MacBook and iPad devices will longer be available on the EE network. We’re committed to offering a range of services for our customers so always review our portfolio on a regular basis. Any customers affected by this update have been notified via SMS.”