We grew up with them. Our parents grew up with them. Perhaps their parents and even grand-parents grew up with them. But we are nearing the end of the line; the landline that is, as telecommunications continues to outgrow its outlet-bound roots. But the traditional telephone won't be disappearing without a fight from those who truly appreciate it, and very much need it.
Detroit News reports that state regulators and a seniors group are banning together to block an effort sanctioned by AT&T (News - Alert) to cut off service to traditional phone lines with 90 day’s notice, effective in three years. AT&T, Michigan's largest phone service provider, argues that winding down on the landlines would help it embrace new technologies as well as to remain competitive in the space. However beneficial the move would be for the mega firm, the shutdown would pose as a brutal shock to those who depend on landlines, namely senior citizens.
Melissa Seifert, government affairs director for AARP in Michigan points out that many seniors rely "on the safety net" offered by traditional phone lines. Moreover, companies like Lifeline (Medical Alert), which services the elderly and disabled, actually require users to have a landline in service in order to be able to become a member. Either Lifeline and its peers would have to immediately change this pre-requisite, or they'd have to start providing their own alternative to landlines. The point is, appreciating landlines is not just a matter of nostalgia or habit, for many it's more akin to a matter of life or death.
“Our concern," Seifert continues, "is whether [the telecommunications firms are] leaving behind people who rely on services like a dialysis machines or Lifeline (Medical Alert) that require landlines.”
Matt Resch, AT&T Michigan public affairs director, suggests that the termination of landlines is not so dramatic, stating: “It’s really more for a streamlining of the process, a bureaucratic streamlining."
The drop in traditional landline users is impressive. In Michigan, there are more than 60 percent less users (2.6 million) in 2012 than there were in 2000 (6.6 million). While evidently, the majority does not require landlines, many people and their families still do.
Edited by Rory J. Thompson