AT&T Announces Plans for NumberSync, One Number for Your Multiple Devices

This morning, AT&T announced plans to launch NumberSync later this year, a network-based service that allows multiple connected devices to share the same phone number. For example, if you have a smartwatch or tablet, those devices will be able to receive calls and texts, even when not connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth. Of course, those connected devices will need to feature wireless radios, which not all of them do. 

Said to launch a little later this year, with more supported devices expected around the holiday season, NumberSync allows your friends and family to call the same number they already have to reach you, even if you don’t have your smartphone handy. If you leave your phone at home while out on a run, but have a smartwatch that features wireless radios, you will be able to receive and place calls, as well as messages. Or if you are on the couch playing with your tablet, and your phone is in the bedroom, you will still be able to take that call on the tablet without having to go fetch your phone.

AT&T states that NumberSync will soon be the norm for devices on its network, meaning you will likely hear about NumberSync from AT&T for quite some time to come. The idea itself is great, but AT&T did not announce exact pricing for each device to have its own connection on the network. It was also not disclosed if data is included, or just texts and calls, which require no actual “data.”

As more details are made available, and what devices we can expect to support NumberSync, we will let you know.

Is this a service you could see yourself utilizing? Sometimes it would be nice to leave the smartphone at home, as long as you can still contact people in case of an emergency.

Update: AT&T reached out to clarify a few points I brought up, specifically price and data. NumberSync will carry no additional charge, expect for the initial $10/month charge that AT&T already charges for connected devices on top of an existing line.

As for the data, whatever data that the connected device uses comes from the same allotment of data you already have on your plan, meaning no extra charges and no new plans for these separate devices. Everything is connected to the one price you are paying for your smartphone.

Via: AT&T