A significant shift is imminent in how UK households stay connected with their loved ones. Starting in January of the upcoming year, consumers nationwide will transition from the traditional copper-wire phone lines, known as the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), to the innovative technology of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).
VoIP, a more contemporary system, utilizes internet connections for making phone calls instead of the old-fashioned analogue wiring. The switch to VoIP offers advantages such as enhanced call clarity, more dependable connections, and additional features like protection against spam calls and call forwarding capabilities.
Despite the long-planned nature of this transition, a substantial number of individuals seem unaware of the impending change. According to a recent report by the telecoms team at Phonely, 58.7% of UK adults aged over 50 are uninformed about the forthcoming discontinuation of traditional landlines, even with industry warnings and the extended deadline until January 31, 2027.
Phonely cautions that this lack of awareness may lead to a surge in last-minute upgrades in 2026, potentially causing issues like equipment shortages, delays in installations in rural areas, engineer backlogs, and heightened pressure on telecom providers.
“With less than a year until the UK’s analogue landline network is permanently switched off, new research suggests millions of over-50s still don’t know it’s happening,” stated Phonely. As the 2027 deadline approaches, experts advise against delaying the switch.
Bryn Thompson, Director at Phonely, remarked, “The extension to 2027 has created a false sense of security. The fact that nearly six in ten over-50s still don’t know this is happening should concern everyone involved. If the majority wait until they’re forced to move, we risk chaos at the eleventh hour.”
Dan Skipper, Chief Executive of Age UK Norwich, added, “These changes prompt many questions for residents, and a lack of awareness may create unnecessary concern or worry, particularly for older people who are not online and rely on their landline for social connection and safety. Speak to your telephone provider to understand your options for switchover, and make sure they know if you have a telecare alarm or may need additional support.”
The transition from the UK’s copper-based PSTN network to digital VoIP services is underway. After January 31, 2027, traditional analogue landlines will cease to function, necessitating calls to be made through broadband connections.
While many younger households have already shifted to mobile phones, a significant portion of individuals over 50, especially in rural areas, still rely on their landlines for daily communication, emergency contact, and telecare alarm systems. In some regions, landlines remain the most reliable means of staying connected.
Telephone providers are expected to reach out to customers directly regarding the switch and explain the necessary steps. The transition itself should not incur additional costs. In most cases, households will only require a broadband connection and a phone compatible with the new system.
However, the dependency on internet access raises concerns, particularly for older consumers who are not yet online. Solutions for those without internet access are being explored before the 2027 deadline. Individuals worried about the transition are advised to contact their phone provider to explore available options.