Openreach Confirms January 31 2027 PSTN Cutoff with No Deadline Extensions

Openreach distributed a letter to communications providers stating that all remaining analog PSTN lines terminate on January 31 2027. The move completes the shift to all-IP fiber networks. Systems dependent on copper lines, including fire alarms, point-of-sale terminals, and telecare devices, face disconnection unless migrated. Openreach previously delayed the date once at government request to protect vulnerable users.

Data from prior migration phases show most residential lines converted to Digital Voice over broadband routers. Remaining connections consist of complex business and care-alarm installations. Openreach reports that last-minute migrations increase engineering costs and risk service gaps. SOTAP fallback equipment will be installed in exchanges for customers without fiber.

Low public awareness persists despite decade-long planning. Charities note that elderly users and those with dementia require repeated direct outreach. Businesses delaying action face higher disruption risk. The pattern matches earlier copper retirement programs where provider coordination gaps left isolated users without service until weeks before cutoff.

Next steps include targeted provider campaigns and on-site support for non-responders. Openreach directs remaining customers to contact their service provider immediately for migration scheduling.