The Digital Landline Switchover UK: What It Means for You (And How to Stay Safe)

By 2027, UK landlines will go digital. Here’s how to prepare with help from the government and providers like Phonely.

What Is the Digital Landline Switchover?

The digital landline switchover in the UK is a major national change. By 31 January 2027, traditional copper phone lines also known as the PSTN will be switched off across the UK. From that point on, all calls will be made over a broadband connection using Digital Voice otherwise known as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).

While the technology behind your calls is changing, the goal is simple: better reliability, higher call quality, and a more future-proof network.

Who’s Behind the Landline Switchover?

This landline switchover is an industry led project backed by OFCOM the UK Government through a dedicated campaign site: digitalphoneswitchover.com.

The website is part of a nationwide awareness campaign helping residents especially those most vulnerable understand the switchover, know what to expect, and take the right steps to stay connected and safe.

If you’re looking for clear, non-salesy advice about how the digital switchover UK affects you, this is the official source to trust.

Why Is the UK Switching?

The PSTN network is over 100 years old. Faults are rising fast (up 45% in 2024), and maintaining the copper infrastructure is no longer sustainable. Many parts simply can’t be replaced.

Moving to digital isn’t optional it’s an urgent requirement to keep the UK communicating.

This change also aligns with the UK Government’s goal to roll out full-fibre broadband across the country, giving everyone access to faster internet and more advanced services.

Who Needs to Prepare?

If you have a landline in the UK, you will be affected.

This includes:

• People with bundled phone + broadband
• Around 1 million voice-only customers
• Older adults or those using telecare alarms
• Anyone without mobile coverage or digital access

For these groups especially, the switchover could create serious disruptions if left unchecked. That’s why the government and providers are urging people to prepare now—not later.

Key Dates to Know

Special Warning: Telecare & Personal Alarms

One of the biggest risks in the digital landline switchover involves telecare devices. These include:

• Fall detectors
• Personal safety alarms
• Monitored smoke alarms
• Emergency lift lines

Many of these devices were built for analogue lines and may stop working without notice after migration. That’s why the government-backed site digitalphoneswitchover.com/telecare/ exists—to help carers, families, and local authorities take urgent action.

If someone you care for uses a telecare device, don’t wait:

1. Contact your landline provider to flag the device
2. Check with the alarm supplier to confirm compatibility
3. Request backup power options if needed

Providers must follow a checklist before switching anyone using telecare. That includes in-home testing and free safety upgrades.

Phonely: Making the Switchover Simple

At Phonely, we’ve helped thousands of households prepare for the digital switchover many with complex needs or long-time landline habits.

• ✔️ Keep your landline number
• ✔️ Friendly help setting up
• ✔️ Scam-blocking CallGuard technology
• ✔️ UK-based phone support

We know how daunting change can feel especially when it affects people you love. That’s why we handle the techy stuff, so you don’t have to.

Final Word: Don’t Wait to Switch

The digital switchover UK is happening. For some, it’s already here.

Don’t wait for your line to go dead. Be proactive. Start talking to your provider, check your devices, and visit the official UK Government campaign site:
👉 https://digitalphoneswitchover.com

And if you want a provider who’ll treat your landline like a lifeline, Phonely is here to help, call us on 0800 112 5000 for friendly advice