Over 40 million Americans still rely on landlines for communication needs. The
FCC Order 19-72 allows phone companies to phase out copper wire service and replace it with digital home phone service. However, internet-based phones are unreliable and do not work during a power outage. The rise of wireless landline service at such a time has given traditional landlines a new lease on life. Wireless landlines combine a landline’s reliability and wireless freedom into one. So, what are wireless landlines? Why are they unique? Why are they becoming popular? Exploring the advantages of this new technology can help users make informed decisions around their communication needs.
What is a Wireless Landline?
Wireless landlines allow you to make and receive calls through a cellular network. It eliminates the need for copper cables or the internet. You only need a landline base and a power outlet to set up your phone. Connect the landline base to a power outlet and plug your phone into the base. Your phone is ready for use.
Why Wireless Landlines Are Better Than Traditional Landlines
Wireless landline phone service is a better and improved alternative to traditional copper wire landlines. Here’s why:
1. Mobility
Traditional landlines require rewiring and new phone jacks if you have to move their location. However, you can move wireless landlines with ease. You only need a power outlet at the new location to connect the landline base. Once you connect your phone and turn on the base, it is ready for use. You do not need to rewire the lines or install new phone jacks. This mobility can be very convenient for people who want to set up a home office and need a reliable phone connection.
2. Easy Setup
Installing a traditional landline is a huge task. A traditional landline connects to the network through copper cables. Therefore, you need a technician to install your phone, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Setting up a wireless landline phone takes less than 30 seconds. Plug in the landline base, connect your phone, and turn it on. Wait 5 minutes to complete the setup, and your phone is ready for use.
3. Resilience
When regular lines go down, phone companies may take forever to fix them. It can be challenging for technicians to find the source of the problem when copper cables are hidden in walls or underground. On the other hand, wireless landlines connect to cell towers with power backups. These cell towers can be restored quickly in the event of a natural disaster. For instance, Florida restored cell towers first when Hurricane Ian hit in 2022. That’s why wireless landlines are very reliable during emergencies and difficult situations.
4. Regular Maintenance
Traditional landline systems need regular upkeep to keep them working. In case of problems with the lines, they need to be fixed or replaced during maintenance. The FCC deregulated landlines in August 2022, meaning phone companies no longer have to maintain copper lines. When you call your phone company for a repair, be prepared to face delays before the lines are fixed. Wireless landlines are easy to maintain. Only the landline base and the phone need maintenance. In case of issues, they are usually easy to troubleshoot.
5. Number Portability
When you move houses, you cannot take your regular landline number. Your number remains at the place where you used to live. But with a wireless landline, you can take your number wherever you go, as long as you are within the coverage area.
6. Call Quality
Traditional landlines often have annoying static and noises during calls as the lines are old and worn out. New-age internet-based phones are no better. Call quality on these phones depends on internet strength. So, you need a high-speed internet for good call quality and clarity. But wireless landlines have excellent call quality as they connect to cell towers. Extensive cell coverage ensures that there’s hardly any interference. The superior call quality and clarity help older folks and first responders who rely on clear communication.
7. Integration With Other Smart Devices
Traditional landline systems need more functionality. They can only help you make or receive calls. Wireless landline systems offer more features and capabilities. You can sync them with your smartphones or tablets to give you a new level of freedom. Imagine syncing your landline with your smartphone. Every time someone calls your home number, your smartphone will ring too. So, you can run errands or leave the house without worrying about missing important calls.
Conclusion
The rise of wireless landline technology has led to a new era in
communication, offering a new and improved alternative to traditional landlines. Wireless landlines are reliable, affordable, and offer excellent call quality. As wireless landlines grow popular, people need to understand the technology better. It can help them make informed decisions around their communication needs.