The way we make phone calls at home is changing fast. With BT rolling out its new Digital Voice service, traditional landline setups are being replaced with internet-based calling.
That might sound a bit technical, but the reality is pretty straightforward—and there’s a little device called the BT Digital Voice Adapter that makes the whole switch a lot easier.
If you're wondering what it is, how it works, and why it matters, this guide will walk you through everything in plain English.
The Big Shift: From Copper Wires to Digital Voice
BT’s goal is to retire the old copper landline network (known as PSTN) by the end of 2025.
Instead of plugging your home phone into a wall socket, calls will now go through your broadband connection just like how we already use the internet for video calls and streaming.
The change isn’t just about modernising—it’s about better quality, more reliable service, and fewer cables. But here's the catch: most phones are still built for the old system. That’s where the BT Digital Voice Adapter steps in.
So, What Is a BT Digital Voice Adapter Anyway?
At its core, the BT Digital Voice Adapter is a simple plug-in gadget that lets your regular home phone connect to BT’s new digital voice service—without needing to plug into the router directly.
Instead of dragging your phone to wherever the BT Smart Hub 2 is sitting, you can pop this adapter into any power socket in your home, plug your phone into it, and it’ll connect wirelessly to the router. That’s it.
You keep using the same phone you’ve always had. No need to rewire anything or buy all-new equipment.
Why Did BT Create the Digital Voice Adapter?
When BT introduced Digital Voice, one of the immediate problems was that their new Smart Hub 2 router only has one phone port. That’s fine if you only use one phone, in one room. But what if you have handsets in the hallway, kitchen, or bedroom?
Instead of forcing customers to rearrange their home setup or buy a bunch of new phones, BT created the adapter as a bridge between the old world and the new. It gives people a way to keep using their existing phones—just with new tech under the hood.
How It Works: Simple and Wireless
Using the Digital Voice Adapter is surprisingly easy:
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Plug it in – Find a power socket near where you want your phone. Plug the adapter in.
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Pair it – Press the WPS button on your BT Smart Hub 2, then press the button on the adapter. They’ll pair up automatically over Wi-Fi.
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Connect your phone – Plug your phone into the adapter using the standard phone cable.
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Start calling – That’s it. Your phone is now connected to the digital voice system, and you can use it like normal.
No engineers. No phone sockets. No mess.
Why You Might Want One (Even If You’re Not Tech-Savvy)
Here’s where the Digital Voice Adapter really earns its stripes: it makes life easier for just about everyone.
No More Being Chained to the Router
Your phone doesn’t have to sit next to your router anymore. Put it wherever it’s most convenient for you—upstairs, by your bed, in the kitchen—just plug the adapter into a nearby socket and go.
Works with Phones You Already Own
This isn’t a sales pitch to make you buy new phones. The adapter is designed to work with the phones you already have. That’s a big win, especially if you’re attached to your current setup.
Perfect for Bigger Homes
If you’ve got more than one phone around the house, or if your router is in a weird spot (like under the stairs), the adapter helps keep things connected without long cables or extra sockets.
Easy to Set Up
You don’t need to be a tech wizard. The pairing process takes less than a couple of minutes, and you’ll be up and running without having to call BT support.
When You’ll Actually Need One
Let’s break it down. You’ll probably need a BT Digital Voice Adapter if:
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You don’t have a phone socket where you want to put your phone.
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You want to use more than one handset in different rooms.
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You’ve switched to BT Digital Voice but still want to use your trusty corded or cordless phone.
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Your router is tucked away somewhere, and dragging your phone next to it is a no-go.
Basically, if you're switching to Digital Voice and want to avoid the hassle of rewiring your setup, this little gadget is a no-brainer.
How to Set It Up (No Engineer Needed)
Setting up the adapter is about as easy as plugging in a lamp. Here’s what to do:
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Plug the adapter into a wall socket – Any power outlet will do. Make sure it’s near where you want the phone.
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Press WPS on your BT Smart Hub 2 – This gets the router ready to pair.
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Press WPS on the adapter – They’ll find each other automatically and pair within a minute or two.
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Plug your phone into the adapter – Use the same phone cable you’ve always used.
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Test it – Pick up the phone and make a call. If you hear a dial tone, you’re good to go.
What to Do If It’s Not Working
Sometimes, even with simple gadgets, things don’t go perfectly. Here are a few tips:
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No dial tone? Double-check that your phone is properly connected to the adapter and that the adapter is paired.
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Not pairing? Make sure both the adapter and the hub are in pairing mode at the same time. You might need to reset the adapter by unplugging it for 30 seconds.
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Poor call quality? Try moving the adapter closer to the router. Avoid using extension cords or surge protectors for the adapter.
Can’t I Just Use a Cordless DECT Phone?
You could—but there are pros and cons.
DECT phones are cordless handsets that connect to a base station. They work well with BT Digital Voice, but they require a new handset if your current setup isn’t compatible. The Digital Voice Adapter, by contrast, works with what you already have.
If you’ve already invested in good handsets, the adapter is the more affordable, easier option. It keeps things simple and cost-effective.
What Phones Will Work with the Adapter?
The great news is that most phones will work. As long as your handset connects via a standard phone cable (which almost all home phones do), it should be compatible.
Whether it’s a corded desk phone or a cordless handset with a base, you can plug it into the adapter and start calling. Features like caller ID, voicemail, and call waiting will still work—assuming your handset supports them and your BT plan includes them.
Where You Can Get One
BT usually provides one adapter free of charge when you switch to Digital Voice. If you need more, you can buy them from:
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The BT Shop
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Amazon UK
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High street stores like Argos and Currys
Just make sure you’re getting the official BT Digital Voice Adapter. Third-party adapters probably won’t pair with the Smart Hub 2, and it’s not worth the hassle.
Optimal Placement for Best Performance
The beauty of the Digital Voice Adapter is that it allows flexibility in phone placement, but that doesn’t mean you can just plug it in anywhere. Here are a few tips for the best results:
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Stay within 10–15 meters of the BT Smart Hub 2 for the strongest connection.
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Avoid thick walls, microwaves, and large metal objects, as they may interfere with the signal.
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If using multiple adapters or phones in the house, strategically place them on opposite ends for complete coverage.
Using Multiple Handsets with One Adapter
Wondering if you can connect more than one phone to a single adapter? Unfortunately, each BT Digital Voice Adapter supports only one phone. However, you can:
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Use a cordless phone system with multiple handsets, all connected to a single base station.
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Purchase additional adapters for multiple standalone handsets.
BT allows up to five Digital Voice handsets or adapters connected to one Smart Hub 2, offering plenty of room for expansion in larger homes.
Voice Quality: What to Expect
One of the main advantages of BT Digital Voice is crystal-clear HD call quality. Compared to traditional analog phone lines, digital voice calls are:
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Clearer and crisper
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Less prone to static or line noise
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More stable, with fewer dropped calls
If you notice reduced call quality:
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Ensure the adapter is within range of the hub.
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Reboot the Smart Hub 2 and adapter.
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Avoid placing the adapter near other wireless devices that could cause interference.
Switching From Traditional Landline to Digital Voice
Making the switch is easier than many expect. BT is phasing out old copper-based lines, and new customers are automatically being put on Digital Voice.
Here’s what typically happens:
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You’ll receive notification of your upgrade to Digital Voice.
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BT sends you a Digital Voice Adapter (if needed).
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Your old landline will stop working, but your phone number stays the same.
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After plugging in and pairing the adapter, your home phone resumes full functionality via the internet.
Tip for peace of mind: Keep an eye on any BT letters or emails that notify you of an upcoming switch. The transition date is usually mentioned clearly.
Troubleshooting Common BT Digital Voice Adapter Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here are common problems and their fixes:
Adapter Won’t Pair
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Ensure the Smart Hub 2 is on and working.
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Check that WPS is activated when trying to pair.
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Try moving the adapter closer to the hub.
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Restart both the hub and adapter.
No Dial Tone
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Confirm the phone is properly connected to the adapter.
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Check if the adapter light is solid blue.
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If not, re-pair the device.
Poor Voice Quality
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Minimize interference from walls or appliances.
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Keep the adapter in line of sight with the hub.
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Move to a less crowded electrical outlet.
BT Digital Voice During Power Cuts
It’s important to remember that Digital Voice depends on electricity and your broadband connection. In the event of a power cut:
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The adapter and Smart Hub 2 will stop working.
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You won’t be able to make or receive calls.
Safety recommendation: BT advises users to have a mobile phone as backup in case of emergencies, especially in households with vulnerable individuals.
For those with health-related alarm systems or critical care devices, BT offers additional support and alternative setups to ensure connectivity during outages.
Can You Use the Adapter With Other Routers?
No. The BT Digital Voice Adapter is exclusively compatible with the BT Smart Hub 2. It won’t work with third-party routers or other BT hubs like Smart Hub 1.
If you’re using a custom router setup for advanced features, you’ll need to keep the Smart Hub 2 connected alongside it or use it as the primary device for voice services.
The Future of Home Calling
With BT leading the switch to all-IP telephony, the Digital Voice Adapter acts as a bridge between the old and new. It keeps legacy phones relevant while offering the advantages of next-gen voice technology.
Some of the future-facing features of Digital Voice include:
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Voicemail to email
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Call divert and call blocking
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Integration with smart home services
BT continues to roll out updates that enhance Digital Voice, meaning the service will only get better over time.
Common Questions About the Digital Voice Adapter
Do I need Wi-Fi for the adapter to work?
Yes. It connects wirelessly to the BT Smart Hub 2, which uses your broadband connection to handle calls.
Can I use it with a non-BT router?
No. It only works with BT Smart Hub 2 and BT’s own Digital Voice service.
How many can I have at once?
Up to five adapters can be used with a single BT Smart Hub 2.
Can I connect a fax or alarm system to it?
Maybe, but it’s hit or miss. Most older alarm systems and fax machines weren’t built with digital voice in mind. Check with the manufacturer or BT before relying on it.
Conclusion Is It Worth Getting a BT Digital Voice Adapter?
If you’re using BT Digital Voice, the adapter is an incredibly handy piece of kit. It makes the switch from landline to digital smooth, painless, and—most importantly—affordable.
You don’t need to overhaul your home phone system. You don’t need to run new cables. You just plug it in, pair it up, and get on with your day.
Whether you’re keeping a phone by the bed, want a handset in the kitchen, or just prefer not to rearrange your furniture to be closer to the router, the Digital Voice Adapter gives you the freedom to stay connected—your way.
To wrap it up:
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The BT Digital Voice Adapter lets your old phones work with new digital systems.
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It’s easy to install and doesn’t require any extra wiring.
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It works wirelessly, giving you the freedom to place phones wherever you like.
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It’s an essential bit of gear if you’re upgrading to BT’s Digital Voice and want a smooth transition.
In a world where everything is going digital, this is one change that won’t make your life harder. In fact, it just might make it a whole lot easier.
