BT has announced the definitive timetable for the nationwide landline switch-off, confirming that all UK customers will be moved from the traditional copper-wire network to digital services by 2027. The transition, which began in 2023, will see the complete retirement of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) within the next three years.
Staged Rollout Across the UK
The switch-off will occur in a phased manner, with different regions transitioning at different times. Openreach, the digital network division of BT, has already begun contacting customers in areas where the upgrade is imminent. The company has stated that it will provide at least 12 months' notice before any individual line is migrated, ensuring that households and businesses have ample time to prepare.
According to BT, the move is necessary because the copper network is now outdated and increasingly expensive to maintain. The company has emphasised that the new digital service, which operates over fibre-optic cables, offers faster and more reliable connections, as well as improved voice quality. However, the transition has raised concerns among some consumer groups, particularly regarding vulnerable individuals who may rely on landlines for emergency calls.
Protections for Vulnerable Users
BT has assured that vulnerable customers, including the elderly, those with medical alarms, and people with disabilities, will receive additional support during the transition. The company has pledged to provide battery backup units for customers who lose power during an outage, ensuring that their landline service continues to function. Furthermore, BT has stated that it will not force any customer to switch before they are ready, and that it will work with charities and local authorities to identify those who need extra help.
The switch-off has already been completed in several pilot areas, including Mildenhall in Suffolk and Salisbury in Wiltshire, where the new digital service has been operational since 2023. Feedback from these trials has been largely positive, with most customers reporting no noticeable difference in call quality. However, some issues have been reported, particularly with devices that are not compatible with the new system, such as older cordless phones and fax machines.
Impact on Businesses and Emergency Services
Businesses are also being urged to prepare for the change, as many rely on landlines for their operations, including payment terminals, alarms, and CCTV systems. BT has advised companies to check their equipment and to contact their service provider if they are unsure whether their devices will work with the new digital network. The company has also highlighted that the switch-off will not affect broadband services, as these are already delivered over fibre in most areas.
Emergency services have confirmed that they are working closely with BT to ensure that the transition does not compromise public safety. Calls to 999 will continue to be handled in the same way, and BT has stated that it will maintain a dedicated team to resolve any issues that arise during the migration.
Final Deadline and Next Steps
BT has now set a final deadline of 2027 for the complete switch-off, after which no landline services will be available over the copper network. Customers who have not yet been contacted will receive a letter in the coming months outlining the next steps. BT has encouraged all customers to respond promptly to any communication from their provider to ensure a smooth transition.
The switch-off is part of a broader industry-wide initiative to modernise the UK's telecommunications infrastructure, which also includes the rollout of full-fibre broadband. BT has stated that the new digital landline service will be more resilient and future-proof, and that it will enable the introduction of new features such as advanced call blocking and enhanced security measures. As the deadline approaches, the company has reiterated its commitment to supporting all customers throughout the process.
