The era of traditional copper landlines hanging above UK streets is coming to an end, as the nationwide transition to “Digital Voice” services is scheduled for January 2027. This marks the phasing out of the old copper-wire phone network, with households shifting towards making calls through their broadband connections.
The shift represents a significant transformation in UK communications, aiming to expedite the move away from outdated infrastructure. BT’s Openreach network is actively implementing its “Stop Sell” initiative to cease offering new copper-based broadband and phone services in affected areas. This initiative impacts providers like BT, Sky, Plusnet, and TalkTalk.
Notices for the Stop Sell program have already been rolled out in various parts of the UK, and Openreach has announced further expansion affecting 238 exchange locations and approximately 1.69 million premises. Customers seeking to upgrade, switch, or acquire new services will be required to transition to full fiber broadband and digital phone services instead of relying on the legacy copper network.
According to Openreach, the Stop Sell policy is triggered when a majority (75%) of premises connected to a specific exchange can access ultrafast Full Fiber. This shift aims to move customers to newer, more advanced technologies that offer faster and more reliable services. By early June, the Stop Sell rules will be in effect across 1,432 exchanges nationwide, impacting around 14.2 million properties.
James Lilley, Openreach’s Managed Customer Migrations Director, emphasized the importance of the Stop Sell program in driving the UK towards a modern full fiber future. As the capabilities of copper for modern communications diminish, the focus is on transitioning individuals to future-proof technologies. This transition also streamlines network maintenance and reduces costs in preparation for 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 via broadband technology. This digital calling service offers modern features like Multi Call, three-way calling, and call diversion to mobile phones. The call quality is expected to be significantly enhanced with Digital Voice, but a compatible Digital Home phone is necessary to leverage these benefits.
Upgrading to Digital Voice for most households will not change how they use their phones, as the cost of the new service is bundled into a single package price that includes broadband. There are no additional charges for Digital Voice services.