AT&T Moving Away from Copper Landlines in Tennessee

According to media reports, AT&T is moving customers away from older copper landlines and onto newer technology as the company phases out much of its copper network in Tennessee.

Reports indicate the Federal Communications Commission has granted AT&T permission to wind down most of its copper network in the state by the end of 2029.

The issue gained attention after an Antioch customer reported that a damaged home phone line would be upgraded rather than repaired due to the age of the line and the cost of repairs.

AT&T says it is notifying affected customers throughout a year-long transition process through letters, email, text messages, and phone calls. The company says newer technology offers improved reliability and better protection against robocalls.

The transition has raised concerns among some customers, particularly older adults and residents in rural areas who rely on traditional landline service. Representatives with AARP say customers should contact their telephone provider to learn how the change may affect their service, including whether they can keep their current phone number and how 911 service will be handled.

According to reports, the current copper landline service costs approximately $72 per month before taxes and fees, while the replacement service is listed at approximately $45 per month before taxes and fees.