How much longer will landlines be available? Full details

The big question on everyone’s mind is: will landlines be available in the years to come? With the UK’s move towards digital voice services, it’s time to get the full picture. Let’s dive into what’s happening with our trusty and much-loved landlines and when you can expect changes.

The countdown to digital

Mark your calendars: January the 31st 2027 is the big day. That’s when the UK will say goodbye to the old Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) for good. After this date, traditional landlines as we know them will stop working. Instead, we’ll all be using internet-based phone services that use VoIP technology.

But don’t panic! This change isn’t happening overnight. Many areas are already making the switch. And you should know that at the close of 2023, phone companies stopped selling & providing new PSTN services. They’re now focusing on digital voice options.

What if you move house whilst on a PSTN contract?

Worried about your landline if you’re planning to move? Here’s some good news: if you stay with the same provider, they’ll likely move your number to their digital voice service. This means you can keep your familiar phone number, even if you move to a different part of the country. It also means that you will be switched from the PSTN over to a digital landline.

This is a big change from the old system. With PSTN, your phone number was tied to your location. Now, with digital voice, your number can follow you wherever you go.

Switching providers for a better price? Here’s what you need to know

Thinking about changing your phone company? Be aware that most providers won’t offer you PSTN services. Instead, they’ll move you straight to their digital phone line provision. This means switching providers will speed up your move to digital voice, as well as save you money. Not only that, you’ll benefit from better call quality and more features than old-school landlines.

Protecting vulnerable customers

Ofcom, the UK’s communication regulator, knows this change might worry some people. They’ve introduced new rules to protect vulnerable customers. Phone companies must make sure these customers aren’t forced to switch without proper safety measures in place.

These measures include:

• Making sure customers have a reliable internet connection
• Providing a backup power supply for emergencies
• Ensuring easy access to emergency services

Why digital voice is the future

While change can be scary, digital voice has some great benefits:

• Clearer calls
• Useful features like voicemail, call forwarding & scam protection
• The ability to keep your number when you move

Plus, there are now lots of ways to get internet for your home VoIP service. From superfast fibre to satellite or 4G and 5G routers, you have options even if you live in a remote area.

The UK’s digital voice rollout

The switch to digital voice is happening gradually across the UK. While the final deadline is January 2027, many areas are already making the change. For example:

• Salisbury was one of the first areas to go fully digital in December 2020
• Parts of Suffolk, including Mildenhall, started their switch in early 2022
• By mid-2023, many urban areas had begun the transition

Remember, your phone provider will contact you well before any changes happen in your area. They’ll explain what you need to do and answer any questions you might have.

Wrapping up: The future of landlines

So, will landlines be available in the future? Yes, but not as we know them today. By January 2027, all UK landlines will be digital landlines. This change brings new features and flexibility, like scam protection, clearer calls and keeping your number when you move.

If you’re worried about the switch, remember that help is available. Your phone company can guide you through the process and ensure you stay connected. Our friendly experts at Phonely are always on hand to help you make the switch too.