Why are we doing this?  

Based on forecasted Hyperfibre uptake, we expect the transition away from our 1st Gen Hyperfibre ONT would commence in May/June 2023.  

Due to this natural lifecycle evolution, we have undertaken a review of our ONT strategy for Hyperfibre, including key requirements for customers over the next 3-5 years. This renewed strategy will inform the selection of our 2nd Generation Hyperfibre ONT, but it is important that we also gain your feedback.

What does it look like?  

With the 1st Gen Hyperfibre ONT coming towards the end of its life, we have been exploring the key features required for our 2nd Gen Hyperfibre ONT. We would like your feedback on the key features for this ONT as we work towards selecting a specific ONT model. 

We are also proposing an introduction date of 1 April 2023 for this next ONT generation, which will both ensure continuity of supply, and open up opportunities to further streamline our Hyperfibre experience.

What does this mean for you?  

We commenced formal consultation on the introduction of the next generation Hyperfibre ONT on 14 April 2022 at the TCF Product Forum. 

We welcome feedback on all aspects of the ONT selection, but would like your immediate feedback on two aspects: 

1. ONT model selection – based on our review and your previous feedback, we are proposing that the 2nd Gen Hyperfibre ONT move towards simplification of functionality, including the removal of the RGW capability but the retention of multiple ports including ATA Voice.  
2. Introduction timing – we are proposing an introduction date of 1 April 2023 for the 2nd Generation Hyperfibre ONT – this would offer flexibility for those who wish to make use of the new model (which will also be fully backwards-compatible with NGA services), while allowing sufficient cross-over between 1st and 2nd generation models to mitigate any risk. We also believe this will allow us to improve economics of Hyperfibre and reduce barriers to entry. More detail on our proposed timeline is set out below. We will be seeking our formal agreement to this timeline through the Product Forum. 

We do not underestimate the impact this change will have on you and your customers and are committed to working with you to mitigate any challenges. The main challenges appear to be: 

1. Form Factor – while the new ONT will certainly look different, we will try to ensure it improves on the current experience of the 1st Gen Hyperfibre ONT; 
2. Systems – your B2B/Ordering tools may require a change. We plan to do an impact assessment with you to understand what impact if any. The changes introduced through our multi-CLNE project will largely mitigate any impact. 
3. Testing – we will provide you with the opportunity to test the new ONT as per the introduction of previous new versions. 

Timing – when will it be introduced?  

We are actively preparing and planning for this change and will share regular updates with more information over the coming weeks and months. In the meantime, below is an indicative proposed timeline which we will consult on and confirm by the end of August. 

• April 2023 – Proposed launch of 2nd Gen Hyperfibre ONT 
• February 2023 – RSP readiness check  
• January 2023 – Service company training 
• November/December 2022 – RSP testing via CCIL lab 
• July 2022 – Consultation closes and implementation confirmed. 2nd Gen Hyperfibre ONT test plans provided to RSPs 
• Mid-April 2022 – RSP consultation process and Impact assessment  

Contact 

As with any change, we appreciate you may have many questions and comments. 

Given the unique space Hyperfibre occupies in the market, and that many RSPs have not yet on-boarded for this product, we think it makes sense to be flexible in the way we conduct this consultation. We will run industry consultation sessions if there is sufficient demand, or bi-lateral consultation with impacted RSPs if requested. 

If you would like to be part of this consultation, please reach out via your account team by 13 May 2022 and we will ensure you are included appropriately.