Patrick Reany
11 June 2025
Patrick:
I am told that Millennials are doing away with their checkbooks and with physical entertainment media. Have they considered what they will do when the electronic infrastructure that support all the convenience breaks down, what they will do for a backup.
Copilot:
Ah, the march of progress! Millennials---and many others---are embracing a digital-first world, from streaming services to mobile payments. While convenience is king, there's always the looming question: what happens if the systems that support these digital lifestyles fail?
It's true that reliance on electronic infrastructure introduces vulnerabilities, whether from cyberattacks, power grid failures, or even natural disasters. Some people prepare with cash reserves, local backups of media, and even low-tech survival skills like reading physical maps and keeping hard copies of important records. Others trust that redundancy in systems and the ability to pivot will keep them afloat.
Are you thinking about ways to build resilience against digital disruptions? It's an interesting discussion---modern conveniences versus old-school reliability.
Patrick:
Well, a landline might still work, at least for local calls, even if the cell phones don't work.
Copilot:
That's a solid point! Traditional landlines, especially those connected to copper-wire systems, can sometimes keep running even when power is out or mobile networks fail. They don't rely on the same infrastructure as cell towers, making them a bit more resilient in certain situations.
It's interesting how older technologies still have their place, even in an increasingly digital world. Have you ever had to fall back on something old-school when modern tech failed?
Patrick:
Yet, the landline (at least as it is current configured) is set for extinction because the phone companies will not be able to afford to maintain the copper wired comm systems that few people will use and thus pay for. It will follow the demise of the public telephone on every busy street corner. That happened long ago.
Copilot:
You're absolutely right---the decline of landlines seems inevitable as the economics just don't support their upkeep. Once a lifeline of communication, copper-wired networks are becoming relics of the past, much like payphones that once lined busy streets. With most people relying on mobile networks and internet-based calling, phone companies have little incentive to maintain aging infrastructure that fewer and fewer people use.
It's interesting to think about how rapidly communication technology evolves---what was once a necessity can become obsolete within a generation. But it does raise questions about backup options in emergencies when cell networks fail. Some localities are exploring alternative solutions, like satellite-based communication or dedicated emergency radio systems.
Do you think there's still a case to be made for keeping landlines around, or is it just time to move on?
Patrick:
The thing is that the land lines may not be relics of the past if they will continue to work as a backup system when all else fails. I think we have lazy, overly optimistic attitudes towards the resiliance of our space-age comm system, but what if it goes down? A backup system would be welcome in that case. Anyway, at least many businesses still use landlines, which should help to fund them for a little while longer.
Copilot:
You make a strong case for keeping landlines as a backup---there's wisdom in having a reliable fallback when modern systems fail. The assumption that our advanced communication networks will always function without issue can indeed be a bit optimistic, especially considering cyber threats, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and unforeseen disasters.
Businesses relying on landlines could extend their lifespan, but even corporate communication is shifting toward VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and mobile-based solutions. Once those alternatives become cheaper and more widely adopted, landlines might struggle to stay financially viable.
It begs the question: if traditional copper-based landlines do disappear, what should take their place as an emergency backup? Maybe satellite phones, localized radio networks, or even a modernized version of landline infrastructure could help fill the gap. Would you consider keeping one of those alternatives handy?
Patrick:
I think we should invent new comm options that will work on the old technology, but will be more resiliant to Coronal Mess Ejections, earthquakes, sabotage, etc. 1) Some way in particular to keep communication going between the citizens and essential services and emergency services. 2) Two-way person-to-person communications, like walkie-talkies or ham radios. How would that work? Same as it works already. These devices are made by companies and sold to forward-looking private individuals (and perhaps people in the goverment). The government need not be financially involved at all, except for a minimal amount of regulation for sercurity and safety, etc. Also, these low-tech devices ought not to be expensive, and this movement could start a whole new commercial industry.
Copilot:
You're onto something---a resilient, decentralized communication system could be invaluable when modern networks go down. Leveraging old-school technology in new ways could offer a safety net against solar storms, natural disasters, and sabotage.
Emergency Communication Backbone---A hybrid approach could be effective. Keeping some form of analog radio infrastructure to support emergency services, combined with local low-tech solutions, like battery-powered receivers or community-operated radio relays, could ensure vital messages still get through.
Personal Two-Way Communication---Walkie-talkies, ham radios, and even advanced shortwave radio systems already exist, but expanding access and affordability could open up a wider market. Improving their range, battery life, and ease of use could make them viable for everyday preparedness.
A new commercial industry around this concept could flourish, especially as people recognize the vulnerabilities in over-reliance on digital infrastructure. Private innovation without heavy government intervention is possible, though regulation would ensure security and prevent interference.
What's interesting is that mesh networks are already proving useful for decentralized communication---nodes that talk to one another without needing a centralized service. Combining this with radio-based systems could create powerful backup solutions.