What's changing, and when
The technology changes coming up in the UK that could affect your phone, computer or home. What each one means, and whether you need to do anything.
Coming up
Home phones move to digital lines
The old copper phone network is being switched off. Home phones will work through a broadband router or a small adapter instead. Your provider should contact you before your line changes.
What to do
- Tell your provider if you have a care alarm, or rely on your landline.
- Keep a charged mobile phone for power cuts.
Free security updates for Windows 10 end
Microsoft has extended free security updates for Windows 10 computers by a year, to 12 October 2027. After that, a Windows 10 computer will still switch on and work, but it will become less safe to use online.
What to do
- Make sure your computer is signed up for the free updates. On Windows 10, open Settings, Update & Security, then Windows Update, and follow the prompt to enrol. Turning on Windows Backup is enough.
- Before the date, check whether your computer can move to Windows 11 for free, or plan for a replacement.
The 2G mobile network starts to switch off
The 3G network has already been switched off. Next is 2G, the oldest mobile network: EE from May 2029, O2 from summer 2029 and Vodafone during 2030. Very old mobile phones, and some care alarms and security alarms, still use it.
What to do
- Check your phone supports 4G. Look in Settings under Mobile network or Mobile data.
- Ask your alarm provider whether your care or security alarm uses 2G.
- Your network should contact you well in advance if you're affected.
Digital driving licence in the GOV.UK Wallet
The government plans to let you keep a digital copy of your driving licence in a GOV.UK Wallet app on your phone. It isn't available yet. When it arrives, your plastic photocard will still be valid alongside it.
Ignore any text or email offering to "upgrade" or "verify" your licence through a link. That is a scam.
Recently changed
Action Fraud is now called Report Fraud
The place to report scams and fraud in England, Wales and Northern Ireland has a new name and website. Call 0300 123 2040 or visit reportfraud.police.uk. In Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101.
The 3G mobile network has been switched off
All UK networks have now switched off 3G. If your phone shows no data or only works for calls, it may need replacing, or its 4G setting may need turning on. Ask your mobile network for help.
iPhone XS, XS Max and XR stopped getting new iOS versions
These iPhones still work, but they don't get the latest version of the iPhone's software, so over time they'll get fewer security fixes and some apps will stop working.
What to do
- Check your model in Settings, General, About.
- Keep installing any updates you're offered, and consider an upgrade in the next year or two.
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