Consequences of impending landline switch off revealed in new survey

A new survey by Zen Internet has revealed alarming statistics about public awareness and preparedness surrounding the impending landline switch off.

Rochdale residents are being urged to prepare for the biggest overhaul of the UK’s telephone network in decades, as new research reveals a worrying lack of awareness about the impending landline switch-off.

The survey commissioned by Zen Internet has found that a third of Brits (34%) remain unaware that the traditional Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be retired in favour of Digital Voice technology.

The transition, which must be completed by January 2027, means all landline services will be delivered via broadband rather than traditional copper phone lines.

The research highlights widespread concern for elderly and vulnerable people who may be at risk of isolation once the switch takes place. More than two-thirds (66%) of respondents worry that older relatives and friends will feel lonelier without access to their landline.

Richard Tang, CEO of Zen Internet, is calling for greater awareness and early action.

He said: “Our research shows that millions of people across the UK, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, are unaware of the switch-off of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), also known as the traditional landline.

“The traditional landline telephone service will be switched off completely by January 2027. While the transition may seem daunting, you can still have a landline service and keep your landline number, but this will be provided digitally by your broadband provider. It is best to switch over sooner rather than later, and we have already supported many of our customers to make the switch to Digital Voice.”

He added: “Our goal is to ensure that no one is left behind in this shift, particularly our elderly and vulnerable communities. Awareness and early action are key.”

Landlines Still Play a Key Role

Despite the rise of mobile phones, landline usage remains high in UK households. More than half (52%) of homes still use a landline, with 15% relying on it exclusively – a figure that rises to 20% in rural areas.

The survey also reveals that landlines are seen as a sign of trust, with 48% believing businesses appear more credible if they have a landline number, while 35% say they are less likely to trust a company that only provides a mobile number.

Beyond trust, landlines provide practical benefits:

• 41% say they offer reliable connectivity when mobile reception is poor.
• 39% prefer using them to connect with older family members.
• 28% say landlines offer better call quality than mobiles.

With younger age groups (25-34 years old) also showing a preference for keeping landlines post-switch (44%), the research suggests that Digital Voice will continue to play an important role in UK telecommunications.

Residents are encouraged to take early steps to ensure they remain connected once the transition takes place. Steps include:

• Checking equipment to ensure compatibility with Digital Voice technology. A compatible telephone or router may be needed.
• Educating older family members about the switch to ensure they are prepared and do not lose access to vital communication.

As the UK marks 40 years since the retirement of its iconic red telephone boxes, the latest change in telecommunications highlights the need to embrace new technology while ensuring no one is left behind.