Landlines in the UK are going digital

As the switch to digital landlines becomes commonplace across the UK Audley Villages speaks to BT about the impact. The below article is sponsored content. We hope you find it helpful.

Landlines in the UK are going digital

Are you ready?

The UK’s landlines are getting an upgrade and soon most phone calls will be made over a broadband line. This is an industry-wide switch, impacting all landline providers in the UK, not just BT.

The good news is the landline is here to stay and you’ll still be able make calls the same way as you do today but using different technology.

Digital landlines are easier to maintain, more reliable and provide a better service for customers. Your phone number won’t change, and more than 99% of handsets work with the new system.

For most customers, the move to Digital Voice, BT’s new home phone service is as simple as plugging your phone into a router rather than the phone socket on the wall.

Moving to Digital Voice is free for all customers and offers enhanced scam protection. More than 2.4 million scam calls and almost 17.7 million nuisance calls have been blocked since May this year.

Supporting customers every step of the way

BT has worked closely with its Digital Voice Advisory Group, an association made up of charities and representative groups, who have been advising on the needs of customers most affected by the switch and, as a result, we are taking a number of steps to give customers the best possible experience.

If you identify as vulnerable or need additional support, please contact your phone company to let them know. BT customers can call 0330 1234 150.

If you use a healthcare alarm, or medical pendant, such as something you press for help in an emergency, or burglar alarm reliant on the landline, inform your phone company and check your equipment provider about any needed upgrades before the switch.

Ensuring no one is left behind

BT wants to reassure customers with additional needs, they will be able to take advantage of free additional support options. This includes free battery back-up units or hybrid landline phones, that can switch to a mobile network in the event of a power cut and lets you contact emergency services.

BT is also working with the power companies to establish processes which help them to restore power in a timely manner.

If you don’t have broadband

Don’t worry if you don’t have broadband, BT will be offering a dedicated landline service, allowing customers to use their landline in the same way they do today.