Concerns Rise Over Digital Switchover Impact on Landline Users
The transition from traditional copper cable landlines to digital broadband connections is causing concern among users, particularly in remote areas. The switchover, which is part of a major technological upgrade, involves replacing the public switched telephone network (PSTN) with digital lines. This change affects approximately 3.2 million homes still connected to the PSTN, which is scheduled to be switched off by January 2027. Users in remote areas, like Robert Dewar from the Scottish Highlands, report losing all communication during power outages, as digital lines rely on home electricity. Vulnerable customers, including the elderly and those without mobile coverage, face challenges in maintaining connectivity during emergencies. Ofcom has urged telecom companies to support these customers, but concerns remain about the adequacy of backup solutions and the potential for communities to be cut off during widespread power failures. 
