The PSTN Switch Off Delay – 2025 to 2027
BT Group’s recent announcement about the delay of the 2025 PSTN switch off to January 2027 is a significant development for businesses across the UK. Initially set for 2025, this extension provides an essential buffer for consumers and businesses to transition from analogue to digital landlines seamlessly.
Understanding the PSTN Switch Off
BT Group’s decision to phase out the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is driven by the need to replace ageing and outdated technology with more reliable and efficient digital alternatives. This move is part of a broader strategy to build and connect customers to future-proof, full-fibre broadband.
Why the Delay?
The revised timeline comes after BT Group introduced several enhancements to protect vulnerable customers and those with additional needs, such as telecare users. Ensuring these individuals are not left behind in the digital transition is a priority. This delay allows more time to implement safeguards and ensure that all necessary support structures are in place.
Key Changes and Improvements
1. Enhanced Support for Vulnerable Customers: Telecare Protection: BT Group has restarted the migration for zero-use landline customers with broadband, following a pause to address vulnerabilities. The introduction of the Government’s Charter ensures that telecare users receive the support they need during the switch. In-home Support: Starting in Spring 2025, BT Consumer will provide in-home support for telecare users, ensuring their devices work correctly post-switch.
2. Gradual Migration Approach: Non-voluntary Migrations: From April 2024, non-voluntary migrations for non-vulnerable customers with no landline use in the past 12 months will resume. This will expand in Summer 2024. Interim Landline Service: For landline-only customers and those with special connectivity needs, a dedicated service will be available, ensuring continued connectivity until a digital solution is ready or until 2030.
3. Collaboration and Industry Efforts: Telecare Action Board (TAB): Formed by BT Consumer, the TAB brings together around 30 organizations from various sectors to protect telecare users during the transition. Data Sharing: Local authorities and telecare providers are urged to share information on telecare lines to facilitate smooth transitions.
What This Means for Your Business
For businesses, this delay is an opportunity to ensure a smooth transition to digital landlines. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Review Your Technology Footprint: Identify all equipment still connected to the PSTN and plan for necessary upgrades to digital alternatives. This includes alarms, payment terminals, lifts, fax and emergency lines (and many more).
2. Engage Early with a New Provider: Tech IP encourages early engagement to test existing equipment and ensure compatibility with digital lines. Utilize Tech IP’s free quoting services to ensure you have everything prepared for a seamless transition.
3. Future-proof Your Operations: Moving to digital networks not only ensures compliance but also enhances efficiency. Embrace this transition to gain a competitive edge with the latest modern technology.
Towards a Full Fibre Future
The extension to 2027 underscores BT Group’s commitment to ensuring that all customers, especially the most vulnerable, are not left behind in this transition. This nationwide upgrade to full-fibre broadband will provide more reliable and resilient connectivity, supporting the UK’s digital goals.
At TechIP, we are here to support your business through this transition. With a huge variety of blogs and customer case study examples ready for you to delve into.
For more detailed information about the industry-wide change, visit the UK Government’s guide.
Contact us to learn more about how we can help you navigate the switch and ensure your operations remain uninterrupted and future-ready.
Phone: 0345 389 2310
Email: enquiries@tech-ip.co.uk
