One Touch Switch (OTS) Explained: Everything you need to know
Switching broadband just became easier than ever. Here’s what it means for you when you next want to change your internet broadband provider.
One Touch Switching
One Touch Switch (OTS) is a new, industry-wide broadband switching framework brought in by Ofcom. The UK regulator is making switching broadband providers quicker and easier and putting customers in the driving seat.
OTS is a new set of rules that all providers (that's us) must follow when customers want to switch.
What’s the thinking behind it?
A recent survey indicated that about two out of every five customers admitted to not switching broadband or landline providers because they thought the process would be a hassle.
Ofcom wanted to change that. So, they made sure residential customers can now get a quicker, easier, and less stressful broadband and landline switching experience.
The goal of One Touch Switch is to help provide a transparent switching process, so customers can easily evaluate their current provider and work out if a new supplier might be better for them. If they choose to switch, the One Touch Switch rules also mean the customer only has to inform their new provider.
The job of informing the old provider (known as the 'losing provider') is now handled by the new provider (known as the 'gaining provider').
Let's say you were thinking about switching to our Full Fibre broadband service. Or perhaps you're making the switch from a landline provider to our digital voice service. Follow the steps below for an easy One Touch Switch.
How does One Touch Switch work?
Pick a new service from a new provider
Hopefully that's us! Start by choosing one of our broadband or digital voice deals. To allow One Touch Switching, enter the name of your current provider and your account details. If you're not sure where to find them, check your current broadband bills.
We'll get all the key switching information
We use the customer information you provided to match your account. As a One Touch Switching company, we'll identify information like termination fees and impact to service from your current provider. The new process means you can put your feet up!
We'll coordinate to get your new service ready
One Touch Switch means we'll ask your current services provider to end your broadband service. They may contact you about charges or services and benefits you'd lose if you switch. We'll work to set the best date for your new broadband service to start.