The end of the road for landline - or is it?

UK communications providers are in the process of upgrading the technology used for fixed telephone networks (landlines), with the transition expected to be largely complete by January 2027. We've cut across the hype to see what this means - if anything - for your business.

In November 2017, the telecoms industry announced plans to phase out analogue telephone networks like the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), which supports many traditional phone services. The Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), another technology used for telephone services, is also being retired.

The industry aims to have most customers transitioned to new digital technology by January 2027. This upgrade will involve shifting landline services to digital platforms using internet connections, such as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Digital Voice, or All-IP telephony.

What are the implications for businesses?

For most consumers and businesses, the transition should be seamless. Importantly, no one will lose access to landline services due to this upgrade, as there will still be an option for a ‘landline only’ service for those who do not wish to purchase a full internet package. Furthermore, communications providers will remain subject to the same regulatory obligations as they are today.