With the UK’s Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) due to be switched off on 31 January 2027, new research suggests many landline users are still unsure about what the change will mean for them.
According to the research by Community Fibre, 45% of people surveyed do not fully understand what they need to do to ensure their phone service continues to work after the analogue network is switched off.
While the migration is well underway, 53% of respondents who have yet to switch said they had taken no action to prepare, the data revealed.
This comes as only 12% had checked whether equipment connected to their phone line would continue to work.
The PSTN switch-off is not limited to traditional voice services. A range of devices that rely on analogue phone connections, including telecare alarms, personal emergency pendants and security systems, may also need to be upgraded or replaced.
Almost a quarter of those surveyed said they, or someone they know, uses a personal or telecare alarm that could be affected by the transition.
Meanwhile, 71% said they would be concerned if a device in their home, or the home of someone they know, stopped working.
Nearly half of respondents were unaware that the PSTN switch-off could affect devices other than telephones before taking part in the survey.
Despite the shift towards mobile communications, the research suggests the landline remains important to a significant proportion of households.
Some 49% said it was important in an emergency, while more than a third said it provided peace of mind and 36% said they rely on their landline when their mobile phone has no signal.
The research also found that 47% of respondents who lack confidence about the switchover believe they have not seen enough information about it.
A further 33% said they are confused about what changes they need to make.
Community Fibre broadband expert, Peter Rampling, said: “The switch from analogue to digital phone services is a nationwide change that is affecting millions of households. But unfortunately, many of those needing to switch may not be offered the best available full fibre service by their existing provider, so it’s important to explore what else is out there before committing.
“Whether you’re sorting your own line or helping someone else to do it, shopping around and switching provider makes absolute sense during a cost-of-living crisis and can save money and effort in both the short and the long run.”
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