Is Your Business Ready for the 2027 Landline Switch-Off? Discover the Best Cloud Phone Systems for UK Companies

With the traditional phone network ending soon, UK businesses must adopt cloud telephony to remain connected and competitive—learn which systems excel in flexibility, cost, and future-proofing, and how to make the smartest switch for your needs.

Cloud Phone Systems and Hosted Telephony Options for UK Businesses in 2025

For UK businesses in 2025, the transition to cloud-based phone systems—also known as cloud telephony, hosted communication, or cloud call networks—has become important due to the upcoming retirement of the traditional PSTN/ISDN landline network in 2027. Cloud telephony can offer flexibility, scalability, and may help businesses manage communication costs efficiently.

This guide covers the characteristics of leading cloud phone systems, key providers, essential features to compare, and considerations for businesses evaluating a move to hosted communication.

Understanding Cloud Phone Systems

A cloud phone system replaces traditional, on-premise phone lines with internet-based VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services. These solutions host call management and communication features on remote servers. This setup enables users to make and receive calls, send messages, participate in video conferences, and manage voicemail using compatible devices with internet access. Typically, minimal upfront hardware is needed. These systems may offer scalability and integration with business tools, depending on the provider.

Options for Cloud Phone Systems Used by UK Businesses in 2025

Comprehensive Platform: RingCentral Ultimate

RingCentral Ultimate is often selected by businesses requiring advanced call management and multi-channel communications (voice, video, SMS, chat).
Features: Integrates with multiple CRMs (over 117), supports omnichannel communications, advanced analytics, 24/7 support, and comprehensive call management tools.
Pricing: £29.99 per user/month (March 2025).
Recommended for: Organisations needing integration capabilities, remote work support, and scalable options for customer service.

International and Enterprise-Oriented: 8x8 Work

8x8 Work is designed for businesses with international operations, providing calls to 48 countries and broad international number support.
Features: Omnichannel communication, AI-powered call routing, analytics, accessibility enhancements, and bespoke pricing.
Recommended for: Medium to large businesses with distributed or international teams.

Budget-Friendly Solution for Smaller Organisations: bOnline

bOnline is noted for straightforward pricing—unlimited domestic minutes from £13.95 per user/month. The platform highlights user onboarding and service support.
Features: Unlimited users/minutes, call analytics, call flows, basic integrations (CRM integration available for an added monthly fee).
Recommended for: Start-ups and small businesses seeking economical telephony options.

Customisable Systems for SMEs: 3CX

3CX provides customisation capabilities, allowing businesses to use their own SIP trunk and hardware, with self-hosting options both on-premises and in the cloud. Pricing is based on simultaneous calls, which may benefit businesses with many users but limited concurrent call activity.
Features: Source options include voice, video, live chat, WhatsApp, CRM integration, API support, and a free version for up to 10 users.
Recommended for: SMEs, hospitality, hotels, or organisations with large teams and lower call concurrency.

Flexible Unified Communications: Gamma Horizon

Gamma Horizon offers a unified communications platform with feature customisation and per-user pricing.
Features: Over 200 CRM integrations, mobile support, intelligent call routing, visual voicemail, and UK-based support.
Recommended for: Businesses seeking customisable features with scalable upgrades and straightforward support.

AI and Value-Focused Solutions: Vonage Max and Dialpad Enterprise

Vonage Max: Includes features for scaling, CRM integration, and spam prevention at £25/user/month.
Dialpad Enterprise: Suitable for customer service teams with high call volumes, offering advanced AI features (voice isolation, live transcription); enterprise plan typically has a 100-user minimum.

Key Features Offered by Hosted Telephony Providers

When evaluating cloud phone platforms, businesses may consider the following features, which are found among various UK providers in 2025:

Integrations: Compatibility with CRMs such as Salesforce and HubSpot, helpdesk systems, calendars, and commonly used business applications.
Omnichannel Communication: Support for calls, SMS, messaging, video conferences, and sometimes social within a unified platform.
Mobile Access: iOS and Android support enable remote or mobile employees to connect seamlessly.
Call Management: Customisable flows, intelligent routing, queuing, monitoring, and analytic tools.
AI Support: Capabilities such as live transcription, voice isolation, AI for customer self-service, predictive dialers, and data analytics.
Training and Monitoring Tools: Coaching functions, call analytics, and round-the-clock support.
Device Compatibility: Use with existing devices or the option to purchase phones designed for seamless integration.

Pricing Structures and Selection Considerations

Main Pricing Models:

Per-user Plans: Charges apply per authorised user (as seen with RingCentral, Gamma Horizon, Vonage, and bOnline). This model can suit businesses with predictable usage or call centre operations.
Concurrent Call Plans: Fees are based on the maximum number of simultaneous calls rather than total user count (examples include 3CX). This can be helpful for teams with uneven call patterns.

Estimated Costs in 2025:

Basic plans for small organisations: £7 – £15 per user/month (for entry-level plans such as bOnline or Gamma Horizon starters)
Feature-rich options: £25 – £30 per user/month (as with RingCentral, Vonage, Dialpad standard offerings)
Advanced or enterprise: Custom pricing (offered by providers like 8x8 or premium 3CX packages)

Understanding the 2027 Network Change and Planning Migration

The “Big Switch Off” in early 2027 will transition UK landlines from PSTN/ISDN to VoIP/cloud-based telephony. Moving to a suitable solution ahead of this change can help maintain service continuity and provide time for staff training and technical adjustments. Many hosted telephony providers offer number porting, user onboarding, and remote setup with prompt activation—often within a single business day.

The Installation and Migration Process

Setup: Most providers are able to activate services and onboard users quickly, sometimes within one working day.
Number Porting: Standard support is widely available.
Device Use: Businesses can typically use their current devices or choose from provider-offered phones for additional features.
Downtime Management: It is recommended to plan migrations during lower-volume periods to help minimise potential disruptions.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cloud Phone System

Smaller or new-to-VoIP businesses: Platforms like bOnline, Gamma Horizon Starter, or the free/concurrent model from 3CX may be suitable.
Larger or internationally-oriented teams: RingCentral, 8x8, advanced Gamma Horizon, or 3CX enterprise-level offerings can be considered.
Those with strong CRM or AI requirements: Options such as RingCentral, Gamma Horizon, Dialpad, and Vonage offer integration and intelligent features.
Budget-focused companies: Entry-level packages from bOnline, Gamma Horizon, or self-hosted 3CX could align with financial requirements.

Practical advice: Review integration compatibility with your current software, assess staff calling needs, and inquire about service-level agreements as appropriate.

Summary for UK Businesses in 2025

Implementing a cloud phone or hosted telephony system can help businesses manage the transition from ISDN lines effectively. Providers such as RingCentral, 8x8, 3CX, Gamma Horizon, bOnline, Vonage, and Dialpad each offer a range of options in terms of flexibility, cost, and features. Businesses are encouraged to determine their specific needs, consider trial periods if available, and migrate ahead of the 2027 network change to support ongoing operational efficiency.

Sources

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