Digital Switchover - Changes to telephone landlines
The UK's telephone network is changing. Between now and 2025 most telephone providers will be moving their customers from old analogue landlines over to new upgraded landline services using digital technology.
This means services that rely on the old landline system such as home phones and healthcare devices will be switched over.
How will it affect me and what do I need to do?
The good news is your landline isn't going anywhere and for most consumers and businesses this change will be straightforward. In fact, many customers are already making the switch when they upgrade to full fibre broadband.
Your telecoms provider such as Virgin Media, O2 or BT should contact you before the switchover to check in and discuss what you need to do to make sure your service isn't affected. However, we're encouraging everyone to know what to expect.
If you have an internet connection, the change may be as simple as plugging your phone into your broadband router rather than the socket on the wall.
If you have other devices connected to your phone line, such as alarm systems, your alarm service provider might need to upgrade your device to make sure it is compatible.
If you are unsure about how a device in your home or business might be affected, it is recommended you contact the equipment supplier or device manufacturer to find out whether it will still work on a digital phone line.
In an emergency
Digital landlines cannot carry a power connection, so in the event of a power cut they will not work. If you have a mobile phone this can still be used, but if you've no other means of calling the emergency services your telecoms provider will offer a solution to allow calls to be made to emergency services.
If you're worried about your devices that depend on the old landline, please contact the company who provide them. They will be able to give you more information.
You should tell your telecoms provider now if you have no other way of making emergency calls.
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