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Breakthrough: Quantum Signals Travel via Fiber-Optic Cables

3/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania demonstrated that quantum signals can travel through standard fiber-optic cables using existing Internet Protocol rules.
They developed a hybrid chip that pairs quantum payloads with classical headers to enable real-time routing without damaging the quantum state.
The experiment showed promising results, but scaling beyond short distances remains challenging.
The findings were published in the journal Science.

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Story summary

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania demonstrated that quantum signals can travel through standard fiber-optic cables using existing Internet Protocol rules.
They developed a hybrid chip that pairs quantum payloads with classical headers to enable real-time routing without damaging the quantum state.
The experiment showed promising results, but scaling beyond short distances remains challenging.
The findings were published in the journal Science.