In the UK, the traditional copper landlines that hang above the streets are being phased out in favor of “Digital Voice” services by January 2027. This move signifies the end of the old copper-wire phone network, with homes transitioning to making calls through their broadband connections.
This shift represents a major transformation in UK communications, aimed at expediting the transition away from outdated infrastructure. BT’s Openreach network is implementing the “Stop Sell” program to cease offering new copper-based broadband and phone services in affected regions. The program has already been introduced in various parts of the UK and is now expanding to cover 238 exchange locations and approximately 1.69 million premises.
Following the implementation of these changes, customers seeking to upgrade, switch, or sign up for new services will be required to switch to full-fiber broadband and digital phone services instead of relying on the legacy copper network. According to Openreach, the “Stop Sell” initiative is triggered when a majority of premises within a specific exchange have access to ultrafast Full Fiber, prompting the transition to newer digital services.
By early June, the “Stop Sell” regulations will be enforced in 1,432 exchanges nationwide, affecting around 14.2 million properties. James Lilley, Openreach’s Managed Customer Migrations Director, emphasized that this program is crucial in advancing the UK’s shift towards a modern full-fiber future. The focus is on migrating customers to more advanced and reliable digital technologies, reducing the maintenance complexities and costs associated with maintaining both old and new networks before the nationwide shutdown of the legacy copper-based Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) in less than eight months.
Digital Voice is BT’s advanced home phone service that operates through broadband technology, offering modern features like Multi Call, three-way calling, and call diversion to various phone numbers, including mobile phones. The service ensures improved call quality, although users will need a compatible Digital Home phone for optimal benefits. Upgrading to Digital Voice for most households will not impact their phone usage habits, as the cost of the service is typically bundled with broadband charges, with no additional fees required.
