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Tech made simple: jargon-free guides for over-60s

Last checked November 2026. Offers and rules change: confirm with the provider before you rely on them.

Technology should make later life easier, not more complicated. These jargon-free guides explain what each gadget does, who it suits, what to look for and roughly what it costs, so you can buy once and buy well.

How to use these guides

Every guide in this section follows the same pattern. We start with who the product suits, explain the main types in plain English, give you a checklist to take shopping, offer a rough price guide and finish with the mistakes people most often make. Where a family member or friend can help with setting up, we say exactly what to ask them to do.

We do not recommend particular models, because they change every few months. Instead we tell you which features matter and which are just sales talk. If a word is new to you, our glossary explains it.

Three things happening now that affect almost everyone

Landlines are going digital

The old copper telephone network is being retired, and the industry expects to finish the job by January 2027. Your landline is not being taken away, but it will work through your broadband router instead of the wall socket. If you have a personal alarm or rely on your landline in a power cut, read our landline digital switchover guide before your provider gets in touch.

Older mobile phones are being left behind

The UK's 3G mobile networks have now been switched off, and the 2G networks will follow over the next few years. Any mobile phone you buy today should work on 4G. Our simple mobile phones guide explains how to check.

Scammers follow the technology

Each of these changes has been used by fraudsters as an excuse to phone people and ask for money or bank details. Genuine providers do not do this. Our guides to spotting scams and online shopping safety are worth reading alongside anything in this section.

Tip: Before you buy anything, check whether you could be paying less for the service behind it. People on Pension Credit and some other benefits can get cheaper broadband through a social tariff.

Phones

Computers, tablets and getting online

Hearing and television

Safety, company and enjoyment at home

Common questions

I have never used the internet. Where should I start?

For most people a tablet is the gentlest start: there is no keyboard or mouse to learn and the screen is big enough to read comfortably. Read our tablet guide, then online shopping for beginners. Many libraries and local Age UK branches run free beginners' sessions.

Do I need a smartphone?

No. If you only want calls and texts, a simple 4G mobile is cheaper, lasts longer between charges and is easier to use. A smartphone earns its keep if you want video calls, photos, maps, online banking or digital tickets.

Is it safe to buy technology online?

Yes, if you buy from a well-known retailer, pay by card and ignore offers that look too good to be true. You normally have 14 days to change your mind on online orders; see your consumer rights.

Can I get help paying for any of this?

There is no general grant for gadgets, but NHS hearing aids are free, social tariffs cut the cost of broadband, and some councils supply personal alarms at reduced cost. Our benefits checklist shows what else you may be missing.

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