AT&T Finds Efficiencies in Fiber Push

Network Infrastructure Transition - The industry is phasing out copper infrastructure, with approximately 5% of customers still using copper wire [2] - Fiber optic cables offer increased efficiency and capacity compared to copper [4] - Fiber consumes 70% less energy than copper [5] - Fiber maintenance costs are 35% lower than copper [5] Central Office Strategy - There are over 4,500 central offices across the country [5] - AT&T intends to reduce the number of central offices by the end of the decade, but they will remain critical for reach [6] - Decommissioning copper infrastructure creates opportunities to monetize space and land [3][4] - The company recently sold 75 wire centers, retaining infrastructure access while selling excess space and land [4] Regulatory Considerations - Regulatory requirements limit the ability to quickly phase out legacy copper technology [3] - The company is required to serve both historical copper and fiber technologies [3]