How prepared does everyone feel for the PSTN Switch-Off?
The launch of FUSION IoT represents an incredible opportunity to transform business connectivity. With the PSTN Switch-Off scheduled for 2027, that’s the perfect opportunity for Gamma’s partners to help with that shift.
Through the Internet of Things (IoT), those customers can future proof their network and devices, while partners open new revenue streams and markets.
Remember the little ‘things’
The headlines around the PSTN Switch-Off tend to be around broadband and phone lines. Dig a little deeper and you’ll realise just how much of an impact the Switch-Off will have on devices on the periphery of your communications infrastructure.
Here are just a few of the devices that could be affected by the end of PSTN:
- Security cameras: Any cameras still on the old network will be switched off come January 2027, leaving business premises at risk.
- Alarm systems: There are 3 million intruder alarms still connected through PSTN. Once the network is switched off, those signals will no longer transmit, posing another critical security risk to businesses.
- EPOS machines: Payment terminals generally run on PSTN systems – last thing a business that relies on these machines needs is to suddenly be unable to process customer payments.
- Door entry systems: If these systems are still running on these lines, then those doors won’t be able to operate. Great for short-term security, but bad for anyone who needs to enter the building…
- Emergency lift lines: Failing to move these emergency alarms away from PSTN poses a risk to health and safety in case anyone using that lift finds themselves in trouble.
Obviously, there’s a whole range of devices that rely on this legacy connectivity. Our partners can utilise Gamma’s Digital Switch-on support to review which customers still use these legacy products. It’s a great way to start that move away from PSTN, but that raises a question – what exactly are the alternatives?
Powering the little “things”
When it comes to powering all those PSTN-reliant devices, the answer lies in IoT.
It’s estimated that there are now 27 billion IoT connections worldwide. Industries such as retail and social housing are already integrating such connectivity into their operations. Bringing cellular connectivity and these devices together creates an infrastructure prepared for a post-PSTN world.
IoT is that backbone for this transition from analogue to digital systems. A single, smarter solution that works over a cellular network is essential for any business that wants to stay competitive and operational. With these inter-connected devices sharing data in real-time, those businesses can unlock a whole new level of both productivity and efficiency.
Why IoT?
Moving those devices away from PSTN connectivity to the likes of 4G or 5G means they’ll stay operational. That’s a strong benefit, but if we wanted to summarise the main benefits behind IoT itself, we’d narrow it down to:
- Reduced costs through automating processes, efficient resource allocation, and predictive maintenance that lowers downtime and associated repairs.
- Greater productivity by using those real-time data insights to optimise workflows and streamline processes to boost efficiency.
- Enhanced decision making through in-depth data insights collected from that integration of numerous sensors and other pieces of equipment.
- Stronger security, since IoT devices incorporate more robust measures to protect sensitive data and allow it to flow without fear of it being corrupted.
Those benefits are there for the taking, and with Gamma’s own IoT proposition, our partners can give them to their own customers.
The FUSION IoT difference
FUSION IoT delivers that seamless IoT connectivity and is designed to transform how businesses manage those devices. Whether it’s single network or multi-network connectivity, those devices stay connected regardless of location or the network itself. It provides that added level of resiliency that’s suitable for businesses of various sizes and sectors.
Coverage stretches to specific locations, such as the UK, or across entire regions like Europe. While we have focused on transitioning devices away from the PSTN network, it’s always good to be thinking about that long-term flexibility and scalability.
The portal itself offers a unified approach to managing SIM cards themselves. Comprehensive control and real-time access add to that complete oversight across the network infrastructure, which makes managing such an estate easier and more efficient.
These SIM cards vary in size and format, including eSIM options that takes connectivity further. More devices can be added to that inter-connected network, while opening the option to upgrade existing legacy devices. Over-the-air (OTA) network switching means all those devices stay connected and updated without any kind of physical intervention, massively saving on costs.
Connected devices, smarter decisions, greater flexibility – that’s the FUSION IoT difference.
First things first…
We’d happily encourage all our partners to reach out to us now and learn all about FUSION IoT. However, they need to support their own customers on how to navigate the PSTN Switch-Off. Review that base to identify legacy products, raise awareness, and find the right solutions for their migration.
Gamma has over 20 years’ experience in the telecommunications market, and our portfolio is designed with the channel’s interests in mind. Introducing IoT capabilities safeguards their customers from the dangers of legacy connectivity and allows efficiency and productivity to thrive. Always-on support and comprehensive data management means our partners know they’re getting that edge in the market.
But remember – don’t forget about the “things” that keep businesses ticking. IoT connectivity can make all the difference.