Openreach warns UK businesses over impending analogue phone network switch-off

Openreach has warned that fewer than 100 days remain before the United Kingdom permanently turns off its analogue phone network on 31 January 2027, Euronews reported. [1]

According to Euronews, the BT Group network operator said approximately one million copper-based lines are still active. This includes 300,000 lines located at business premises. [1]

Euronews reported that Openreach warned failing to transfer these systems to digital alternatives poses severe operational, safety, and compliance risks. Non-phone equipment relying on the network includes card payment terminals, lift emergency phones, fire alarm panels, security systems, and door entry units. [1]

An alarm is a mechanism that gives an audible, visual, or combination signal to alert individuals to a problem requiring urgent attention. [2]

Euronews reported that businesses face rising costs and disrupted services if they delay updating their systems, as European Union authorities push to retire copper networks across the block by 2035. [1]