Page updated 08/05/2026

What is happening to landlines?

The UK’s telephone network is changing. Towards the end of 2025 most telephone providers switched their customers from old analogue (copper-based) landlines to new upgraded landline services using digital technology.

If you call a communications provider (ie BT) today to set up a new phone line, you will find that you cannot have a phone-line only deal because of this change. Communications providers will now suggest deals that include broadband, as all phones will need the internet to work after 2025.

You can download Starting Point’s free user guide (1,937 KB) to find out more.

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