China Telecom Quantum Group has demonstrated a significant advancement in secure communications—a quantum‐encrypted phone call spanning over 600 miles from Beijing to Hefei. This breakthrough tackles the rising challenge of quantum computers compromising traditional encryption, making digital communications much safer.
The new system combines Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)—a method of sharing encryption keys over quantum signals—with Post‐Quantum Cryptography, which uses algorithms built to defy quantum attacks. As noted by the South China Morning Post, this layered defence not only secures data transmission but also strengthens overall system resilience.
Peng Chengzhi, chief quantum scientist at China Telecom and professor at the University of Science and Technology of China, emphasises that as quantum computing evolves, traditional public key systems become increasingly vulnerable. If you’ve ever worried about the limitations of current cybersecurity, this development offers a welcome assurance.
China Telecom’s three‐layer system has been rigorously tested in real‑world settings and is now ready for commercial rollout. With quantum networks already active in 16 major cities such as Hefei, Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou, the Hefei network in particular highlights a high level of sophistication, serving a wide range of government and business needs.
Furthermore, the company has rolled out secure platforms like Quantum Secret for instant messaging and collaboration, and Quantum Cloud Seal for critical applications including financial audits and government approvals. These innovations meet a growing demand for enhanced cybersecurity in our increasingly digital world.
