Openreach is calling on comms providers to accelerate migration to digital networks as ahead of the January 2027 PSTN switch-off deadline, warning of mounting costs, security risks, and missed growth opportunities facing laggards.
Fri, 17/05/2024 - 10:09
In a statement BT has confirmed that it expects to have migrated all customers off the PSTN by the end of January 2027, following a two year delay.
This latest development follows an industry-wide pause to non-voluntary All-IP migrations due to the risk of personal alarm failures as a result of going digital.
It is estimated that circa 1.8 million people in the UK are reliant on personal alarms and telecare devices with most using BT’s network. The concern is that network outages and power cuts could put this at-risk group in jeopardy.
BT since rallied the industry to drive All-IP compatibility testing and has invited device manufacturers, distributors, providers and other impacted businesses to compatibility test their tech against All-IP parameters in a bid to reboot PSTN switch off planning.
At the time a BT Group spokesperson told us: "The current pause will have an impact on the timing of the overall programme but we are working to minimise any delays as the switch to digital landlines is a necessity given the increasing fragility of the analogue landline network.”
