A major change is coming to the way we all keep in touch with friends and family. From January 31, 2027, homes across the UK will be moved away from traditional copper-based wires (PSTN) and switched to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) instead. This more advanced VoIP platform uses the internet to make phone calls. That means users get better reception, clearer voice technology and features such as spam call protection and the ability to forward incoming calls to other numbers.

The transition has been coming for some time; it appears millions might not be aware or ready for the sizable update.

That’s according to a new report from the team at Phonely, who say 58.7 per cent of UK adults aged over 50 appear blissfully unaware of the upcoming switch-off. That’s despite years of industry warnings and a deadline extension to 31 January 2027.

Phonely is now warning that this low awareness could lead to a surge in late switching during 2026, potentially causing equipment shortages, engineer backlogs, delays in rural installations and increased pressure on providers.

“With less than a year until the UK’s analogue landline network is permanently switched off, new research suggests millions of over-50s still don’t know it’s happening,” Phonely explained.

For a generation that values stability and reliability, the shift represents a significant change. And with the January 2027 deadline approaching, experts warn that waiting may no longer be an option.

Explaining more, Bryn Thompson, Director at Phonely, said: “The extension to 2027 has created a false sense of security. The fact that nearly six in ten over-50s still don’t know this is happening should concern everyone involved. If the majority wait until they’re forced to move, we risk chaos at the eleventh hour.”

And Dan Skipper, Chief Executive Officer of Age UK Norwich, added: “These changes prompt many questions for residents, and a lack of awareness may create unnecessary concern or worry, particularly for older people who are not online and rely on their landline for social connection and safety. Speak to your telephone provider to understand your options for switchover, and to make sure they’re aware if you have a telecare alarm or if you may need additional support.”

What Is Changing and how to switch?

The UK’s copper-based Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is being retired and replaced with digital Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services.

After 31 January 2027, traditional analogue landlines will stop working. Calls will instead run through broadband connections.

While younger households have largely moved to mobiles, many over-50s, particularly in rural areas, still rely heavily on their landline for daily communication, emergency contact and telecare alarms.

In some areas, it remains the most reliable form of connection.

Your provider should be in touch to confirm the switch-over and explain how to do it. It won’t cost anything extra, and the only thing you need is a broadband connection and a modern landline phone. Internet connectivity has raised concerns, as some older consumers still don’t have web access. A solution for this issue is still being considered ahead of the 2027 switch-off, but it’s worth talking to phone providers if you are concerned.

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