You’ve probably heard – the UK is getting rid of traditional landlines. Yes, after decades of tangled cords and unreliable phone calls, the copper phone lines we all relied on are being switched off by January 2027. On the bright side, there are plenty of alternatives available which offer clearer, cheaper, and much more flexible systems than the old system. Regardless, if you are a home user, freelancer, or a business owner juggling calls, you have options, and we will provide them for you.
Are Landlines Being Switched Off?
Yes, they are. The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is officially terminated. The system is outdated and expensive, hence BT and Openreach are planning to phase out landlines by 2027. Once that date hits, you will no longer be able to receive new landline connections and existing connections will also cease to function, unless you switch to newer technologies.
What Will Replace Landlines in the UK?
The most important one to take note of is VoIP, which stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. To put it simply, your calls will now be conducted over the Internet rather than using outdated telephone lines. If you’ve ever used WhatsApp or participated in a Zoom call, you’ve taken advantage of this technology already. VoIP is more cost-effective, has better sound quality, and is available wherever WiFi, 4G, or 5G is found. In addition, it can be accessed through a variety of devices, including desk telephones, laptops, and mobile devices. Many businesses, along with smart households who ditched landline phones a long time ago, are already using it.
Is It Worth Keeping a Landline UK?
If you are emotionally attached to your cordless phone or just want to keep a landline number, it is still a matter of time before it is out of service altogether. With full fibre broadband being more widespread throughout the United Kingdom, why cling onto obsolete technology? However, if you have vulnerable family members, telecare alarms, or devices that are reliant on landlines, you will want to ensure the correct adjustments are made before the switch.
Best Phone Alternatives After the UK Landline Switch-Off
From a VoIP phone system to adopting satellite technology, there are a range of options available when making the switch to a digital phone line (and not be left behind):
Switch Your Landline to a VoIP System
This remains your easier option. You can retain your residential or business number which will continue to function as it is, except now it will operate on the internet. Your provider might even take care of this for you — just check that you have a good broadband connection.
Get a VoIP Phone
Do you wish to retain the feeling of an old-fashioned handset while also enjoying 21st-century innovation? A VoIP phone can be plugged straight into your router or connected via wireless. They look and feel like ordinary handsets, but they come with advanced features such as voicemail-to-email, call recording, and HD audio.
Consider a Satellite Phone
These types of phones are a bit unique. However, if you are off the grid, or live in places with no signal or broadband, these can be a great back-up option. They are a little pricier, as people usually use them in rural or emergency situations, but satellite phones can be incredibly helpful in certain circumstances.
Use an Adapter to Get a Digital Phone Line
If you’ve got an older phone you don’t want to chuck, an analogue telephone adapter (ATA) lets you plug it into your broadband router and use it as a VoIP device. Think of it like giving your trusty handset a digital upgrade. Easy fix!
Ready For A Free Trial?
Thinking of switching to VoIP but don’t know where to start? Don’t forget we also offer a totally free 7 day trial. It’s the ideal way to test out everything on offer with no commitment. We don’t even ask for your credit card details, so you literally have nothing to lose.
