A significant change is on the horizon for phone users in the UK, as traditional copper landlines are being phased out in favor of new technology known as Digital Voice. This shift, set to take effect from January 2027, is prompting BT to launch a campaign, led by Clare Balding, urging homeowners to prepare for the transition.
Digital Voice, which harnesses broadband for making calls, not only modernizes communication capabilities but also enhances reliability and introduces new features like improved call clarity, call forwarding to smartphones, and enhanced call screening to combat scams and unwanted marketing calls.
Customers are assured that the switch to Digital Voice should not impact their phone numbers or costs, as bills are expected to remain stable. Most households will simply need to connect their existing phones to their broadband hubs, eliminating the need for engineer visits in most cases.
It is crucial for users to heed messages from service providers to prevent any disruption in essential services. Lucy Baker, Consumer Digital Voice Director at BT, emphasized the importance of embracing this technological upgrade to ensure a more secure and reliable communication infrastructure for everyone.
Digital Voice offers modern features such as Multi Call and call diversion, along with improved call quality. Users are advised to ensure they have a compatible Digital Home phone to fully benefit from the upgraded service.
Households should rest assured that the transition to Digital Voice will not complicate phone use as the service is bundled with broadband at no extra cost. Customers with special requirements, like telecare device users, are encouraged to inform their providers promptly to receive appropriate support during the switch.