Original article ISPreview UK:Read More
Network operator Openreach has today announced that they’ve extended a number of special discounts to help support ISPs as they migrate customers off the old Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). The previous offers were due to end on 31st October 2026 and will now run all the way until the final switch-off date on 31st January 2027.
Broadband, phone, telecare providers, councils and consumers are currently working feverishly to migrate 1.2 million remaining lines before the deadline (inc. 350,000 business lines). The main focus of this remains on the people who use vital home telecare systems (e.g. elderly, disabled – vulnerable users), which aren’t always compatible with newer IP-based digital phone services (telecare providers were slow to adapt).
As part of this the network operator has been providing retail internet and phone providers with free or discounted connections for migrations from WLR (inc. voice-only WLR Solus) products to modern equivalents, such as SOGEA (data-only FTTC broadband) and MPF (fully unbundled) / SOTAP lines. As above, the latest industry briefing confirms that these offers will now run right up until the deadline.