Landline phones will switch off across Britland in 100 days, no extensions – Openreach

Britain's largest telecoms company, BT Group, announced on January 31, 2027, that it will officially switch off its legacy phone network, known as the public switched telephone network (PSTN), in 100 days. The government-run infrastructure arm, Openreach, warned that any customers still on PSTN connections risk disruption when these are retired.

The switch-off will affect both businesses and consumers, including point-of-sale terminals, fire and security alarms, and personal care alarms for the elderly and vulnerable. Openreach's infrastructure relies on copper cabling, which is being phased out in favor of all-digital, high-speed fiber-optic networks. Many households have already abandoned landline handsets for mobile phones, but for those who still prefer a landline, the changeover requires connecting the phone to a broadband router for a Digital Voice service.

Openreach has been preparing for this move for nearly a decade, previously postponing the deadline once at the government's request. Telecoms analyst Paolo Pescatore urges Openreach and providers to launch a more coordinated campaign to reach customers directly, using TV, billboards, newspapers, letters, calls, and door-to-door support, especially for older and vulnerable individuals.

Caroline Abrahams, director of Age UK, emphasizes the urgency of the issue, stating that many people have made the transition without major problems, but those relying on their landline or TeleCare should not be left behind. Openreach provides information on its webpage, advising consumers to contact their service provider immediately to prevent service interruptions.

The company also warns that businesses delaying migration risk significant disruption and unnecessary costs, as they may struggle to secure engineering support before the deadline.