Spike in Demand for Pagers, Radios, and Landlines Hits Moscow Amid Communication Issues

• March 12, 2026

Recent disruptions affecting mobile and internet services in Moscow and several other Russian cities have triggered a notable increase in demand for more traditional communication devices. Between March 6 and March 10, the sale of household two-way radios, pagers, and landline telephones in the Russian capital rose sharply, according to data provided by the Wildberries marketplace and reported by BFM.ru.

Growing Popularity of Analog Communication Tools

The sales statistics reveal that household two-way radios saw a 27% growth in turnover during this period. Pagers experienced an even more dramatic resurgence, with their sales jumping by 73%. Meanwhile, landline telephone purchases increased by roughly 25%, highlighting a broader shift in consumer behavior amid connectivity concerns.

The resurgence of these legacy communication devices appears to be directly correlated with ongoing issues affecting the reliability and availability of mobile networks and internet access. In an environment where communication infrastructure is strained or temporarily incapacitated, consumers have gravitated towards technologies that offer more consistent and secure connections, even if they are considered outdated by modern standards.

This trend underscores the importance of redundancy in communication channels, especially in urban areas where dependence on mobile internet is usually high. Devices like pagers, walkie-talkies, and landline phones can function independently of mobile network towers and can be crucial when mobile broadband services are compromised.

While the adoption of such technologies may seem like a step backward, it reflects a pragmatic response to real-world challenges. These devices offer simplicity and reliability—qualities highly valued during periods of unstable mobile service. Their use spans various user groups, including emergency responders, security services, and individuals seeking dependable alternatives for daily communication.

The Wildberries marketplace plays a significant role as a sales platform, with its data providing insights into shifting consumer preferences in Moscow’s tech and communication sectors. However, exact sales volumes or broader geographical patterns beyond Moscow and a few other cities were not detailed.

The sudden market shift also raises questions about how telecommunication infrastructure resilience can be enhanced to prevent future reliance on older communication technologies. Moreover, it reflects a global imperative to strengthen network reliability amid increasing societal dependence on digital communications.

As more individuals turn to traditional devices, retailers and manufacturers may experience renewed interest in producing or stocking such equipment. This could influence the future availability and development of analog communication tools.

Overall, the Moscow case exemplifies how communication challenges can rapidly alter consumer behavior, prompting a reevaluation of technology usage trends and emphasizing the continued relevance of legacy systems in modern urban settings.

Moscow has seen a surge in sales of pagers, walkie-talkies, and landline phones amid recent mobile network disruptions.