Blog · 4 min · Last reviewed 5 Jul 2026
Digital Voice explained for UK homes
In short
Digital Voice is the UK's replacement for the old copper landline. Here's how it works, what it means for alarms and telecare, and how to be ready.
By January 2027, every UK landline moves off copper and onto Digital Voice — calls delivered over your broadband line.
What changes for you
- Your phone plugs into the router, not the wall socket.
- Call quality is often clearer.
- In a power cut, the phone won't work unless you have a battery backup unit.
What to check now
- Alarms and telecare pendants: some old models call an emergency line via copper tones. Ask your provider if it's Digital-Voice-ready. See Digital Voice: alarm systems and medical devices.
- Fax machines, care line boxes, some door entry systems: same check.
Vulnerable-customer protection
If you or someone in the home relies on the landline for a medical or care service, tell your provider — Ofcom rules require extra support and free backup batteries where appropriate.
OCCTA's position
We offer Digital Voice as a standard add-on. We won't cut anyone over without checking their situation first.
Was this helpful?
Still need help?
Check availability at your address, or talk to a human.
Related
This guide is for general information only. Your accepted Contract Summary, Contract Information and OCCTA terms apply to your service.