While traditional battery backups are often big, heavy, loud and complex to set up, this new Broadband Battery Backup is compact and simple to install.
- Vodafone, BT, KCOM and Zen Internet are bringing a Broadband Battery Backup device for WiFi routers to market. It is capable of powering a router for up to 4-to-7 hours.
- Ahead of the PSTN switch off in 2027, this device will help protect landline-dependent customers from disconnection during emergencies such as power cuts.
- The product was born out of regulation from Ofcom that requires telcos to keep landline customers connected for up to an hour in the event of a power cut. The device exceeds Ofcom’s requirements as it provides up to 4-7 hours of connectivity.
- 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.
- Vodafone is also making devices available for wholesale to other Internet Service Providers (ISPs) so that they too can adhere to the conditions set out by Ofcom.
- Vodafone will provide the devices to new and existing landline-dependent customers free of charge.
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.
Your landline is changing: Everything you need to know
The UK is switching off its old analogue landline telephone network. If you have a landline from Vodafone, here’s how this affects you.
Developed by Vodafone and Wire Technologies, a UK-based manufacturer of data transmission 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 telcos across the industry in November 2024.
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.
This kit can help you weather power cuts
Prepare for possible electricity outages with these tips and gear, tiding you over until the power comes back on, including a handy power backup for your Vodafone home broadband router.
“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 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.
Full Fibre broadband: Everything you need to know
Full fibre broadband is in the news a lot, but there are crucial differences between the types you can get. We explain what those are and why it matters.
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.
How Vodafone prepares its network for storms and heatwaves
Bad weather can affect Vodafone's mobile network, so the company has technology and procedures in place to lessen the impact of such disruptive events and ensure any repairs are done as quickly as possible, despite the many challenges facing engineers in the field.
“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,” 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”.
Everything you need to know about charging your gadgets
There's no such thing as an 'Android charger' or 'iPhone charger' and that's a good thing. Here's how you can charge your phone using your laptop charger and other powerful tips.
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.
Could you be eligible for a priority fault repair?
Vodafone believes everyone has the right to be connected, and that connectivity is particularly important for vulnerable customers.
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.
-Ends-
Notes to Editors
Vulnerable customers that fall into this regulation are those who are dependent on their phone line to contact emergency services, have telecare devices/alarms or customers that live in a low mobile coverage area.
Vodafone Broadband Battery Backup for WiFi Key Features
- Ability to power both router and ONT/Modem simultaneously
- Long runtime – 7 hours for 25W router/4 hours for 55W router
- Compact size, lightweight and easy to install
- Emergency mode – saves 25% of the battery capacity, which can be accessed in an emergency
- USB-C charging port – for charging mobile phones or tablets
- Time remaining indication in hours and minutes
- LED light indicator
- Audible alarm indicator
Technical Specifications
- Dimensions (mm): 100x100x62
- Case Construction: ABS Fireproof Rated Plastic
- Output Current: 3.5A (max)
- Output Voltage: 12V(max)
- Capacity (Watt-hours): 56Wh
- Battery Cell: Lithium-ion (6 x 2600mAh)
- USB Type C
- Display: LCD screen with time indicator
- Power Button: Red/Green/Blue/White LED
- Fully Certified: UK & EU markets
