All UK homes are facing a once-in-a-generation change to the way they make phone calls. The dramatic shift is all down to ageing copper technology being switched off and replaced by digital VoIP calls that use the internet to help Brits keep in touch.
It's a huge upgrade that's slowly being rolled out nationwide and we now know the next areas that will be transferred from older technology to new broadband calling.
BT has just confirmed that it will begin the next chapter of its copper switch-off in Greater London.
Customers will begin being informed soon with many then expected to see the changes take place during November and December.
Although the thought of killing off old landlines sounds pretty scary, BT is promising that the majority of users simply need to unplug their current phone from the landline socket and pop into the back of their broadband router instead.
"The landline is here to stay, and for the majority of customers, making the switch simply involves plugging your phone into a broadband router instead of into a wall-mounted phone socket, bringing new benefits such as advanced spam call blocking," BT explained.
"This once-in-a-generation upgrade to future-proof the UK’s landlines is essential and will replace technology that is fast becoming obsolete."
The biggest worry will be for those who don't have broadband as the new system won't work without an internet connection. Luckily BT says it won't be forcing anyone to make the switch just yet if they fall under the criteria such as those who don't have a mobile signal or only have a landline and no broadband.
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Customers over the age of 70 are also not initially being proactively switched to Digital Voice.
BT’s regional approach will be supported by general awareness communications, and advertising campaigns, delivered across local, regional and national media to explain to customers the simple steps required to make the move to Digital Voice. There will even be drop-in sessions to ask questions and voice concerns - you can find out when these are taking place here.
Speaking about the changes, Vicky Hicks, Senior Engagement Manager at BT, said: “BT customers in Greater London will benefit from a tried and tested service, with around two million BT customers already having made the switch and benefitting from the many advantages of digital home phones from advanced scam call filtering capabilities to crystal-clear call audio.
“For almost everyone, moving to Digital Voice will be a simple and free transition with no home installation work required. If you feel you need additional support with the transition or you think you are vulnerable, please do tell us. We will be with you every step of the way.”
All the UK’s landline providers will have to switch off landlines by December 2025 when the sun will set on the traditional service for good. It’s already the case that if you want to sign up for a new landline contract and your home has access to broadband, you’ll have to switch to a new digital landline.