Overview

• The Bundesnetzagentur has released a three-phase plan for transitioning from copper-based DSL to fiber networks, with public consultation open until June 23, 2025.
• Germany lags behind the EU average in fiber availability (36% vs. 64.5%) and usage (29% vs. 49.6%), complicating the 2030 shutdown goal for copper networks.
• Deutsche Telekom denies plans for immediate or forced copper network shutdowns, citing legal and logistical challenges.
• Pilot programs testing voluntary migrations from DSL to fiber are underway in Bad Salzungen and Wiesbaden, with consumer safeguards in place.
• Only one-third of Germans are willing to switch to fiber even if available, with many citing cost concerns and satisfaction with current broadband services.