Do you still use an analogue landline?

Analogue phone systems are built on traditional copper wire and use the so-called Plain Old Telephone system

The UK’s telephone network is being upgraded which means that by December 2025, traditional landline phones are set to be switched off in favour of a digital network.

The technology we currently use to make calls on landlines, called ‘analogue’, is being replaced with an internet-based version, called an ‘IP network’.

Landlines will still exist, and you can still have a phone line in your home – but the system that underpins it will be different.

What do I need to do?

Phone providers have already started work on switching over the network, but you don’t need to do anything until they get in touch with you.

For many people, the change will be as simple as plugging their phone into their broadband router but if your phone handset is very old, you might need to change it. Your phone provider will be able to advise you.

What if I don’t have the internet at home?

Under the new system, you won’t be able to make calls without an internet connection at home.

If you already have broadband, you can use that. If not and you don’t want a high-speed internet connection, you should be given the option to use a simple internet connection just for making calls.

What happens if there’s a power cut?

If there is a power cut it’ll mean you can’t make phone calls and so if you don’t have a mobile, live somewhere where there’s no or poor signal, or depend on your landline, for example because you’re disabled, your home phone provider should offer you a solution like a battery-operated handset. This will mean that you can make emergency calls during a power cut.