Communications providers in the UK are replacing the technology they use to provide fixed telephone networks (landlines).

Analogue networks have been in operation for decades and have reached the end of their serviceable life. The telecoms industry is finding it difficult to source the parts required to maintain or repair connections as suppliers are no longer manufacturing them.

New digital phone lines will allow communications providers (such as BT, Virgin Media O2, Sky and Vodafone) to offer consumers and businesses clearer and better quality phone calls, as well as new features such as anonymous caller rejection or three-way calling. 

The exact migration process will depend on your communications provider and the equipment they use. Communications providers will contact their customers ahead of the migration taking place, so you do not need to take any action until your provider contacts you directly. You should look out for communications material from them and be careful not to confuse this with marketing material.

Ofcom states that communications providers should take steps to identify at-risk customers and engage in effective communications to ensure all eligible customers are protected throughout the upgrade process.

If you believe you or one of your relatives is a vulnerable consumer or depends on a landline, you should notify your communications provider so that they can advise on how the migration could affect you.

For more information and support, Ofcom, the independent regulator for telecoms, has issued guidance on how to prepare for the migration. [External Link]

The Digital Connectivity Forum – the government advisory body for the digital connectivity sector – also hosts a website that provides comprehensive information for a variety of audiences on the move to digital landlines. [External Link]

Source: UK transition from analogue to digital landlines – GOV.UK