Is it true that AT&T will let me have a copper landline again?

[susanjom]

Rumor has it (or rather an AT&T tech just told me) that AT&T would enable me to have both fiber for internet and copper for a landline. If that's true, why can't Sonic?

I am very uneasy about not having a real landline, and paying for battery back-up for the pseudo-landline feels like a bad choice.
I was very unhappy with AT&T, but I would be very interested in getting my copper landline back.

Please explain this to me.

[joeyyung911]

Because AT&T is the incumbent, they own the copper not Sonic. I don't think Sonic has ANY business relations with AT&T anymore (except for existing customers with their service).

[susanjom]

That doesn't answer my question

[joeyyung911]

Okay...Sonic doesn't own ANY copper lines. You want them to run their own copper?

[susanjom]

Ah, right. My apologies. I do remember that.

The AT&T lines are there, and Sonic would have to pay them to continue using them, and apparently I'm the only client who wants to keep the copper. I don't understand why no one else minds losing their copper lines, but it is what it is.

[dane]

The FCC in 2020 set aside the requirement for incumbent carriers to continue to provide copper loops to competitive carriers like Sonic. That's now in a wind-down phase, no new loops can be ordered, and with the final requirement existing regulated loops ending in February of 2025, if memory serves. We've provided our remaining DSL customers updates on this in recent months, setting expections for what's likely to occur in the coming years. (Short version: we don't expect the loops to be taken away, but we do expect continued price increases.)

Regarding landline reliability, I'd suggest that fiber is very reliable as a landline phone solution, but it does require a battery backup or other power backup in the home in order to work. With a good battery you can get days of reliability, and then consider a small generator. Enough to run an extension cord to the fridge, plus power your essential electronics.

[susanjom]

Thanks, Dane.
I will probably just get rid of my landline altogether, and have Sonic continue to carry my internet.
I can always charge my cell phone off my car battery, so I guess I have at least some connectivity even when the power is off.