There’s now less than a year until the UK’s ageing copper infrastructure will be switched off for good, with this major deadline set for January 2027. Once the change comes into force, homes still connected to this technology may find they can no longer make calls to friends and family. It’s clearly a big transition, but it’s something firms such as BT say needs to happen due to the old network becoming overloaded, unreliable and not meeting the connectivity standards expected in today’s digital age.

To stay connected, UK homes need to switch over to so-called Digital Voice services, which use broadband to make calls instead of copper cables.

This platform is not only more stable but also offers bonus features such as clearer calls, the ability to forward incoming calls to smartphones and better screening which can help eliminate scams and annoying marketing messages.

BT says that over three million homes have now switched to Digital Voice, but more must make the switch to avoid future issues.

“Time to Act,” BT said in an email sent to Express.co.uk.

“In the final year of the nationwide upgrade, BT is reminding customers that support is available and that failing to respond to messages from their provider may result in disruption to their phone or broadband services as the switchover deadline approaches.”

BT says it is investing heavily in its infrastructure to make sure it can support next-generation connectivity and services. Switching is pretty simple, as the majority of BT handsets are now compatible with digital landline services.

It’s been confirmed that customers will generally keep their existing number, and bills shouldn’t go up when moving over. Most homes simply need to plug their current phone into their broadband hub rather than the copper-based wall socket. If that’s not working, then a call to their provider might be needed or an engineer visit organised.

BT has noted that customers with additional needs, including those who use telecare devices or pendant alarms, should inform their provider as soon as possible so the right support can be put in place.

If you don’t think you have switched yet, time is running out, so make sure you check your phone and are using the latest technology to avoid issues in the future.

“Upgrading the UK’s digital backbone is essential to make sure everyone has the modern, secure and resilient connectivity they can trust to help them prosper in a connected world,” said Allison Kirkby, BT Group Chief Executive.

“Failing, decades-old infrastructure holds back homes, businesses and digital inclusion ambitions.

“BT is currently one of the biggest investors into UK infrastructure and will have invested more than £40bn into the country between 2020 and 2030. We know that growth and opportunity is unleashed, as a result of our investment and when people, businesses and communities connect to our digital networks.”

What is Digital Voice?

This digital calling, which connects homes via the internet, offers modern features not found on old landline services, such as Multi Call, three-way calling for conference calls, and call diversion to any other phone number, including mobile phones. The call quality should also be much improved with Digital Voice, though you’ll need a compatible Digital Home phone to take advantage.