A new Censuswide survey conducted on behalf of broadband ISP Zen Internet, which involved 2,000 nationally representative UK consumers aged 16+, has revealed that 34% of respondents are still “unaware” of the upcoming switch from the old Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) to IP-based digital phone (VoIP etc.) services.
Just to recap. The big switch-off was last year delayed to 31st January 2027 in order to give broadband ISPs, phone providers, telecare operators and consumers more time to adapt (details). But the main focus of this delay was the 1.8 million people who use vital home telecare systems in the UK (e.g. elderly, disabled, and vulnerable people), which aren’t always compatible with the replacement VoIP / IP-based digital phone services (i.e. for everybody else the deadline is still technically Dec 2025).
However, Zen’s survey found that over half (52%) of UK households still use a landline, with 15% relying on it exclusively — a figure that rises to 20% in rural areas where broadband and mobile connectivity is often not as good. In addition, some 66% of respondents remain concerned that older relatives and friends may feel lonelier and more isolated if deprived of their landline, which is of course an entirely avoidable outcome.
Summary of Key Points from Zen’s Survey
➤ Over 55s might typically rely more heavily on a traditional landline phone for keeping in contact with the outside world, but they are the least informed about the digital shift (39%), while Londoners are the most aware (70%). In contrast, regions like the East Midlands and North East are the least informed (both 55%).
➤ 48% of people believe that having a landline number makes businesses more credible, while 35% feel less inclined to trust a company with only a mobile number.
➤ Beyond trust, respondents felt that landlines offer practical benefits, including: Reliable connectivity when mobile reception is poor (41%), a preferred medium for connecting with older family members (39%) and better call quality than mobile phones (28%). The latter is debatable.
➤ Younger demographics (25-34 years old) are increasingly choosing to retain a landline when the switch off happens (44%).
➤ 17% said landlines offer a more personal experience than a mobile, although that is also very debatable.
➤ 53% said they prefer to explain things verbally in phone calls.
➤ 32% plan to keep a landline.
Generally speaking, those with older landlines should have already been contacted by their broadband or phone provider about the coming change, assuming they haven’t already been switched (many have). But if not, then it’s probably wise to contact your ISP and ask what approach they’ll be taking, which is particularly important if you’re somebody in a more vulnerable group (for the best support, your provider needs to know).
Naturally, Zen Internet has a vested interest here, as they’re in a position to help with such transitions. But at the same time, it doesn’t hurt for end-users to take a few minutes in order to ensure they’re prepared for and familiar with the change. For many people, they’ll just end up plugging a handset into the back of their broadband router instead of a wall socket, but others may have more complex needs and requirements to consider.