Vodafone and leading telco operators BT, KCOM and Zen Internet are to launch a small and lightweight Broadband Battery Backup device that will keep users connected to Wifi for up to 4 to 7 hours – dependent on your router – 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, a UK-based manufacturer of data transmissions products and components for data centres and other critical IT networks, Vodafone will be distributing the devices 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 far exceeds this time requirement, by enabling up to 4 to 7 hours of connectivity. This also supports the ambitions set out by the UK government within its PSTN non-voluntary migration checklist which was jointly agreed with leading telco’s across industry in November last year.
“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.”
UK Government Minister for Telecoms and Data Chris Bryant
Vodafone will also be white labelling the devices and offering them wholesale to other telco’s so that they too can adhere to the conditions set out by Ofcom.
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 Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and Fibre to the Premises (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% of Brits experienced a power outage in their local area, with 23% reporting these taking place on an almost annual basis.
The device also features a unique emergency mode, which automatically reserves 25% of the battery’s runtime. This is particularly useful for those who experience a power cut unknowingly overnight and require reliable connectivity first thing in the morning.
The product has been developed sustainably, using 95% 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 4 to 7 hours of connectivity, is a testament to that promise. 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.”
Rob Winterschladen, Consumer Director, Vodafone UK
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.”
Vodafone will also be providing its Broadband Battery Backup device to KCOM, the leading internet provider in Hull and East Yorkshire, who have already migrated 60,000 customers to fibre voice services.
Ian Shepherdson, Chief Technology Officer, KCOM said: “In 2019, KCOM proudly established Hull and East Yorkshire as the first full fibre region in the UK. Since then, transitioning our customers to this next-generation full fibre network from legacy copper lines has been a pivotal programme. We’ve developed a sector-leading model for migrating voice services ensuring a smooth and reliable transition for customers. 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.”
KCOM will use the devices to provide a longer-life battery for ‘at risk’ customers who have their voice service migrated and delivered via the full fibre network. While not providing full internet connectivity because of the way KCOM’s network is configured, the devices will provide up to 12 hours emergency cover for voice calls in the event of a power cut or similar event.
Vodafone Business will also be making the Broadband Battery Backup available to business customers in the near future.
Stay connected even during power outages with the Broadband Battery Backup for WiFi from Vodafone. For more information, visit Vodafone’s accessories website here.
