Many businesses and elderly people still rely on landlines and are struggling to adapt. Some alarm systems, emergency services, and payment terminals still use PSTN and need upgrades. The switch requires stronger broadband infrastructure, which is not yet in place everywhere.

PSTN Switch-Off Cost Impact

The move to digital phone lines (VoIP) means businesses and individuals must upgrade their systems, which can be expensive.

PSTN Switch-Off (Biggest Telecom Change by 2025)

What Is PSTN?

PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) is the traditional copper-based phone system used in the UK for decades. BT Open reach is switching off PSTN by December 2025, meaning all homes and businesses must switch to VoIP (Internet-based phone systems)

The UK Government Announcement

Broadband Speed Crisis

Slow & Inconsistent Speeds

Many areas in the UK still suffer from slow broadband speeds, especially in rural regions where full-fibre rollout is delayed. Copper-based ADSL connections are outdated and can’t handle modern internet demands. Even in cities, network congestion during peak hours slows down speeds.

Broken Promises on Gigabit Broadband

The UK government promised gigabit broadband (1 Gbps) coverage for all by 2025 but delays and funding issues have slowed progress. Full Fibre (FTTP) is available to only ~20% of businesses (as of early 2024), far from universal coverage.

Service Crisis (Customer Support & Reliability)

Frequent Outages

Major providers like BT, Virgin Media, Sky, and TalkTalk have suffered regular service outages, leaving customers frustrated. Storms, network failures, and infrastructure problems often cause broadband blackouts.

Poor Customer Service

Many UK broadband and phone providers have been criticised for long wait times, unhelpful support, and unresolved complaints. The Ofcom (UK regulator) 2023 report showed that customer satisfaction in the broadband sector is lower than ever.

Hidden Fees & Poor Transparency

Some companies increase prices mid-contract, forcing customers to pay more unexpectedly. Providers often advertise "fast speeds", but real-world speeds are much lower, leading to complaints.

Price Crisis (Rising Costs & Unfair Pricing)

Broadband & Phone Bills Have Increased Sharply

Since 2022, broadband and phone prices have increased by 10-15% per year, higher than inflation. Many providers tie price increases to CPI inflation + 3.9%, leading to continuous bill hikes.

Loyalty Penalty (Existing Customers Pay More)

Customers who stay with the same provider often pay much higher prices than new customers who get introductory deals. Ofcom has pushed for reforms, but many companies still charge unfair loyalty fees.

Mobile Network & 3G Shutdown Issues

3G Shutdown Impact (2024-2025)

The UK’s major mobile networks (EE, Vodafone, Three, O2) are shutting down 3G services by 2025. Older devices, including some medical alarms, payment machines, and rural network setups, will stop working.

5G Rollout Delays & Coverage Gaps

5G was supposed to revolutionise mobile internet, but rollout delays and lack of coverage in rural areas mean many people still don’t have reliable mobile data.

Conclusion: The UK’s Telecom Sector Needs Urgent Fixes

🚨 Broadband speeds need faster rollout of Full Fibre (FTTP) and better rural coverage.

🚨 Customer service & pricing need stronger regulation to stop unfair price hikes.

🚨 The PSTN switch-off should have better support for elderly and vulnerable users.

5G expansion should be prioritised to prevent mobile signal gaps.