AT&T plans copper landline phaseout across 18 states

AT&T is beginning a phased retirement of traditional copper landline networks in designated areas across Michigan, Louisiana and Alabama, following federal authorization to discontinue certain residential and business services. Nov. 15, 2026, is the earliest date service changes may begin, not a universal cutoff; approvals cover portions of telephone exchanges, so not every customer in a listed community will be affected. AT&T says the transition will take about a year and will move customers to newer options such as fiber or wireless service. The shift has raised concerns about reliable access to emergency calling, particularly for older residents, people who rely on landlines, and users of medical-alert or security devices; residents are urged to check their service and confirm that connected equipment will continue to work.