When Will POTS Lines Go Away?
The public switched telephone network (PSTN) is quickly becoming obsolete, as people increasingly use mobile devices and VoIP services to make calls and communicate over the internet. This transformation has been further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading many to ask: when will POTS lines go away for good?
The Decline of POTS
Over the past two decades, the use of traditional POTS lines has been steadily declining. This is due to a number of factors, such as the rise in mobile devices, the proliferation of VoIP services, and the fact that landline phones can often be more expensive than their wireless counterparts.
Moreover, the growth of fiber optic networks has made it easier for internet services like Skype and FaceTime to work. This in turn has made it increasingly difficult for companies to justify the cost of setting up and maintaining the same landline networks.
The End of POTS Lines?
Experts predict that POTS lines will be a thing of the past within the next 10-20 years, as more people switch to mobile and internet-based services. At the same time, landline phone companies will continue to make service upgrades to meet customers’ needs and ensure reliable connections.
In addition, companies are beginning to invest in new technologies like 5G that will help improve the speed and reliability of internet connections. This could have the effect of making POTS lines even more irrelevant over time.
What Does This Mean?
Ultimately, the death of POTS lines is inevitable, given the trend towards mobile and internet-based communication. That being said, the process will likely take some time to fully play out.
- In the meantime, it’s important for companies to keep an eye on trends and make sure their services meet customer needs.
- Investments in new technologies like 5G should also be considered, to ensure their services are competitive and reliable for the future.
The bottom line is that POTS lines are on their way out, and companies need to be prepared for this inevitable transformation.
