Vodafone has unveiled a new back-up battery capable of powering WiFi routers for up to 7 hours in the event of a power cut.
The battery has been developed and released to support the switch off of Openreach’s Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), which is used by most phone companies in the UK to deliver phone services, in January 2027.
From that date all residential and business fixed-line phone services will be provided over broadband.
While the move will modernise the UK’s phone services and deliver a marked improvement in call quality for many users, it’s also given rise to concerns about the ability to remain in contact should a property experience a power cut.
The new battery, which has been developed by Vodafone and Wire Technologies, will address that concern by keeping the router powered up.
Vodafone will supply it free of charge to new and existing landline-dependent customers free of charge, while the network’s other customers can purchase the device for £150.
Additionally, Vodafone has agreed to supply the battery on wholesale terms to BT, which has dubbed its broadband phone service ‘Digital Voice’, plus KCOM and Zen Internet to ensure their customers have the same guarantee of connectivity.
Vodafone Business will also be making the broadband battery backup available to business customers “in the near future”.
Rob Winterschladen, Consumer Director, Vodafone UK, said: “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.”
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