AT&T Will End Ohio Copper Landline Service by 2027

The telecommunications company plans to phase out legacy copper voice technology in Ohio by September 2027.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Telecommunications

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of weathered copper wires and a utility box, representing the phase-out of aging telecommunications infrastructure. — AT&T will discontinue its legacy copper-based landline network across Ohio by September 2027 as it migrates customers to modern voice technologies. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Starting September 1, 2027, AT&T will discontinue copper-based landline services across Ohio. The company announced the transition in 2024 as it seeks federal regulatory approval to retire the aging network.

Why it matters

AT&T reports that copper technology is outdated, difficult to maintain due to water damage, and increasingly prone to copper theft. The provider is transitioning its remaining customers to modern alternatives to ensure continued service.

Only 2% of AT&T customers currently utilize legacy copper voice technology. To replace these connections, the company is offering the AT&T Phone - Advanced device, which includes a 24-hour backup battery for power outages.

The players

AT&T

This major telecommunications corporation provides mobile and fixed-line services to millions of customers across the United States.

The details

AT&T will contact customers via mail, email, and phone to manage the transition to newer technology. The company intends to retire its copper network across most of its footprint by the end of 2029.

AT&T announced the landline retirement plan in 2024.
The transition will take effect in Ohio on September 1, 2027.
AT&T aims to finish exiting most of its copper network by the end of 2029.

The Tech Race

This move represents a broader industry shift away from legacy PSTN infrastructure toward digital and wireless communication systems. By replacing aging copper lines, providers are eliminating maintenance-heavy systems in favor of more scalable, modern network technologies.

Customers currently relying on copper landlines will need to transition to alternative services like AT&T Phone - Advanced to maintain connectivity. Residents should prepare for communication from the provider regarding equipment upgrades and service adjustments before the September 2027 deadline.

The takeaway

Legacy copper networks are increasingly being decommissioned in favor of more reliable digital alternatives. Customers should review their current service plans and prepare for transitions as providers modernize their infrastructure.