Quantum Internet Alliance Launches Tech Forum at Mobile World Congress

The Quantum Internet Alliance (QIA) has officially launched what it called the world’s first global quantum internet technology forum at Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona this week.

Established to accelerate the uptake of and interest in quantum internet among businesses, QIA said the forum will help to establish a “broad ecosystem” of industry and academia partners, spanning the quantum internet value chain.

The forum will also help bridge the gap between quantum internet research and its practical applications, helping to accelerate the industry’s progression to real-world deployments.

Within the forum, the QIA will establish Special Interest Groups which will each focus on specific areas of quantum internet, including interactions with network operators, spearheaded by Telecom Italia, and space/terrestrial interface for quantum internet, spearheaded by Thales Alenia Space.

“Understanding the potential of the quantum internet for the future users and market needs will allow for accelerated transition from research to engineering products and tailored solutions for quantum internet,” said Stephanie Wehner, QIA’s Director. “The QIA Technology Forum (QIATF) is our platform to facilitate such engagement and pave the road for early commercial deployment of quantum internet technology innovations.”

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“The activities of QIATF adhere to the QIA vision of building a global internet made in Europe and align with QIA’s roadmap,” said Vlora Rexhepi-van der Pol, QIA’s innovation manager. “We envision the QIATF to grow exponentially in the next few years, serving as a robust vehicle for technical exchange on quantum internet between industry, academia, and research and technology organizations.” 

Currently, QIATF has members in nine countries across Europe, including Germany, Spain and Denmark, with hopes for future expansion.