Landline telephone services in the UK are switching to a fully digital network. This means phone calls will be carried out over the internet (instead of analogue landlines). This is what's known as the digital switchover.
The switchover is happening because analogue telephone lines are becoming harder and more expensive to maintain, and the UK needs a modern digital system that can handle communications via mobile phones, laptops, tablets and other electronic devices.
The digital switchover is planned to be completed by the end of 2025 - for some providers it has been extended now to 31st January 2027.
How will it affect me? What do I need to do?
For most consumers and businesses, this change will be straightforward.
If you already 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 need to upgrade your phone system, your provider may need to arrange for a telephone engineer to come to your home to install a new system.
If you have other devices connected to your phone line, such as an alarm and healthcare system, including Linkline1, your alarm or healthcare system provider might need to upgrade your alarm device to make sure it's compatible. If you're unsure about how a device in your home or business might be affected, contact the equipment supplier or device manufacturer to find out whether it will still work on a digital phone line.
Who will contact you, and when?
Your Telecomms provider (eg Virgin Media, O2, Vodafone, Talk Talk/ BT etc) will contact you ahead of the switchover, between now and December 2025, to let you know what you need to do to make sure your service isn't affected. You do not need to take any action until your provider contacts you directly.
Further information
- Government - What the retirement of analogue phone lines means for you
- Which? - Guidance about digital voice and landline switchover for residents
- Bionic - A guide on the digital switchover and what to expect
- AGE UK - Frequently asked questions about what the switchover means for residents
- Landlines Go Digital - Useful information for residents about the switchover
- Public Switched Telephone Network charter
- Digital Phones for Home and Business (Openreach)
