Vodafone and telco operators BT, KCOM and Zen Internet have launched a small and lightweight broadband battery backup device that will keep users connected to WiFi for up to four to seven hours, dependent on the type of device, in the event of an emergency such as a power cut.
While traditional battery backup for WiFi devices are often too big, heavy, loud and complex to set up, this new device is compact and simple to install. In the event of a power cut, switching from mains to battery is automatic and seamless, ensuring user connectivity isn’t hindered.
Developed by Vodafone and Wire Technologies, the device will be distributed by Vodafone to all customers recognised as landline dependent free of charge. For everyone else, the device will cost £150.
The device also meets Ofcom regulation, which requires telcos to offer a solution to keep landline-dependent customers connected to vital essential services – such as medical assistance, communication with support networks and emergency information – for up to one hour during a power cut. Vodafone’s device exceeds this time requirement, by enabling up to four to seven hours of connectivity. This also supports the ambitions set out by the UK government within its Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) non-voluntary migration checklist, which was jointly agreed with telcos across industry in November last year.
UK Government Minister for Telecoms and Data, Chris Bryant, said, “Innovative solutions such as Vodafone’s broadband battery backup can provide peace of mind to landline dependent customers, ensuring they don’t lose connectivity when they need it most.
“Since stepping into office, I have made it my utmost priority to work with telecoms companies to put safety at the centre of the migration from analogue to digital landlines, and it is great to see the industry going to lengths to maximise tech innovation to boost safeguards for vulnerable people.”
Vodafone will also be white labelling the devices and offering them wholesale to other telcos.
For some, remaining connected can be a lifeline during emergencies, and it is crucial that the most vulnerable are not isolated or cut off from essential resources at these times. This will become even more evident by January 2027 when telcos begin phasing out traditional PSTN landlines and replacing them with VoIP and FTTP services instead, meaning broadband will be the only fixed connection coming into the home.
While the UK’s electricity network was relatively stable last year, major events such as Storm Darragh caused significant disruption, with around 70,000 residents experiencing a power outage as a result. A 2023 report by UKPower found that almost 66 per cent of Brits experienced a power outage in their local area, with 23 per cent reporting these taking place on an almost annual basis.
The device also features an emergency mode, which automatically reserves 25 per cent of the battery’s runtime.
The product has been developed sustainably, using 95 per cent recycled plastic.
“At Vodafone, we are committed to ensuring our customers stay connected no matter the circumstance. Our innovative broadband battery backup device for WiFi, offering an industry-leading four to seven hours of connectivity, is a testament to that promise,” said Rob Winterschladen, consumer director, Vodafone UK.
“As we manage various power cut episodes across the country and approach the significant PSTN switch off in early 2027, we recognise the vital importance of safeguarding landline-dependent customers. That is why we are proud to work with other leading telcos to ensure everyone has access to a robust solution which delivers peace of mind and uninterrupted connectivity.”
Lucy Baker MBE, BT consumer’s all-IP director, said, “BT has remained committed to providing solutions for customers with additional needs. Following an extensive review of the market we are pleased to bring our customers the latest in broadband battery backup technology which allows us to continue to meet our policy objective of protecting telecare users and vulnerable customers”
David Barber, strategy director, Zen Internet, said, “This is a great example of how, with industry collaboration, we can find solutions to a common challenge, one the industry itself has arguably created. How digital voice products will continue to work during a power outage has been a real concern for many. It is so pleasing to see that positive steps have been taken to work together to protect the vulnerable.
“This new device is a vast improvement on anything that was available in the market, and essentially, is easy to install, to further support vulnerable consumers through the withdrawal of the traditional landline.”
Ian Shepherdson, chief technology officer, KCOM said, “This takes another significant step forward through our partnership with Vodafone. The new devices will offer even greater reassurance for our voice customers relying on telecare devices and demonstrates our dedication to delivering the best possible service.”