Last Updated on November 28, 2024 by Tim FitzGerald
What is the Digital Switchover?
It is the switching over of the ‘old’ analogue phone system, to a new digital system, using the internet – called Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).
Why is this happening?
It is a ‘Whole Industry’ change (not just BT) completing by January 2027.
Parts of the current system are over 100 years old and running out of spare parts – essentially, the old system is no longer sustainable.
What is involved?
Most people will just be able to unplug their landline from the old socket and plug it into their broadband router.
BT will give 4 weeks’ notice so that you can advise them of any issues you may have.
BT and Virgin Media advise that most handsets will still work. If you have a very old handset, contact them to check.
Potential issues/solutions
- Your phone will no longer work if there is a power cut or if your broadband connection goes down.
- Most people will have a mobile phone that they can use as a backup.
- If you do not have broadband then BT will fit it for you at no cost.
- If you do not have a mobile phone, BT offer a hybrid phone – it has a battery and uses a mobile signal, in the case of a power cut.
- If you do not have a mobile phone signal in your home, BT offers a ‘battery backup’ unit to keep your broadband and phone working.
- Virgin Media offer an ‘emergency backup’ line (which includes a battery) if you are in an area with a mobile phone signal. If not, contact them.
People with Additional Needs
This category will include (but not be limited to):
- Where people don’t have a mobile phone signal
- Where people don’t have a mobile phone
- Vulnerable people e.g. over 75’s or those with disabilities
- Where people have a ‘telecare’ pendant alarm
Advise BT or Virgin Media and they will put back your switch date to allow time to sort out any issues*
BT Process
- You will be contacted at least 4 weeks before the proposed switch.
- Let BT know if you have any additional needs or questions.
- Your switch date can be put back and a BT engineer will help get you set up.
- You will not be left without a phone connection.
The target end date is January 2027.
Virgin Media Process
- Virgin Media will also contact you in advance by mail and email, but they do not give a timescale.
- Virgin Media will also delay people with additional needs and send an engineer to help them, as required.