A team from the University of Innsbruck in Austria and the Institute for Quantum Computing in Canada has successfully used quantum computers to simulate particle interactions more effectively than ever before.
The research introduces a new approach using qudits, which can store more information than traditional qubits.
With this technology, the team built a quantum computer capable of simulating a full quantum field theory in two dimensions, a significant improvement over previous efforts.
The simulations even revealed the formation of magnetic fields between particles, something not seen in earlier one-dimensional studies.
Researchers believe this advancement could lead to even more complex simulations, including three-dimensional particle interactions and insights into the strong nuclear force.
Physicist Martin Ringbauer describes the development as just the beginning, highlighting the potential of quantum computers to answer some of the biggest mysteries in physics.
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Researchers at Caltech have developed a groundbreaking silicon device that could help quantum computers communicate over long distances.
The innovation, created by a team led by Professor Mohammad Mirhosseini, successfully converts microwave photons into optical photons, overcoming a major challenge in quantum networking. Their findings were recently published in Nature Nanotechnology.
Quantum computers rely on microwave photons to store and process information, but these particles require near-zero temperatures and lose data when travelling through standard internet cables.
Optical photons, however, can move efficiently over long distances at room temperature. The new device acts as a bridge between the two, using a vibrating silicon beam to convert microwave signals into optical ones with remarkable efficiency.
Built from silicon to minimise noise, the transducer outperforms older systems by 100 times while maintaining the same level of signal clarity.
The breakthrough brings the concept of a quantum internet closer to reality, offering a scalable way to link quantum computers across vast networks in the future.
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Quantum computing firm PsiQuantum is reportedly raising at least $750 million in a new funding round led by BlackRock, pushing the startup’s pre-money valuation to $6 billion.
The round remains ongoing, but it signals strong investor confidence in PsiQuantum’s ambitious timeline to deliver a fully functional quantum computer by 2029, or sooner.
The US, California-based company uses photonics and semiconductor techniques to produce quantum chips in partnership with GlobalFoundries at a facility in New York.
It has also secured collaborations with the governments of Australia and the US to build quantum computers in Brisbane and Chicago.
The Chicago project will anchor the new Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park, marking a major milestone in the commercialisation of quantum technologies.
PsiQuantum faces stiff competition from tech giants like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Nvidia, all of whom are making significant strides in quantum research.
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MIT researchers have developed a breakthrough quantum interconnect device that could significantly advance quantum computing by enabling direct communication between multiple quantum processors.
Unlike point-to-point architectures, which suffer from compounded error rates, their new ‘all-to-all’ communication system allows superconducting quantum processors to exchange quantum information efficiently using microwave photons.
By successfully demonstrating remote entanglement between two quantum processors, the researchers have taken a crucial step toward building large-scale quantum computing networks.
Their method involves using superconducting wires to shuttle photons, allowing quantum processors to remain entangled even when physically separate. However, this advancement paves the way for scalable quantum computing with higher flexibility and reduced error rates.
To maximise efficiency, the team employed reinforcement learning algorithms to optimise photon absorption, achieving over 60% absorption efficiency—enough to confirm successful entanglement.
Future improvements may involve refining photon pathways and integrating modules in 3D to further enhance performance. The research, supported by multiple US agencies and AWS, brings quantum computing closer to practical, large-scale implementation.
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Announced at the Amplify 2025 event, the new models include the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP 8801, Mono MFP 8601, and LaserJet Pro Mono SFP 8501. These printers are built to resist sophisticated attacks that could exploit vulnerabilities at the firmware level.
To enhance security, HP has integrated quantum-resistant cryptography within the printers’ ASIC chips. These chips provide digital signature verification, reducing the risk of unauthorised firmware modifications and potential data breaches.
HP emphasised that, without these safeguards, printers could be fully compromised by malicious firmware updates, allowing attackers to gain persistent control over the devices.
The new printers are also designed to integrate seamlessly with Zero Trust network architectures, reinforcing security within enterprise environments.
By incorporating advanced cryptographic measures, HP aims to future-proof its printing solutions against emerging cybersecurity threats.
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Chinese researchers have developed the Zuchongzhi 3.0, a quantum processor 1 quadrillion times faster than the world’s best supercomputers. The 105-qubit chip, created at the University of Science and Technology of China, achieved impressive results, completing a quantum task in mere seconds—1 million times faster than Google’s Sycamore chip.
A breakthrough like this marks a major step forward in quantum computing, especially with its enhancements in coherence time and quantum error correction. The processor’s transmon qubits, made from materials like tantalum and niobium, also show significant improvements in gate fidelity, leading to more accurate computations.
Despite these advancements, experts note that classical computing methods could still close the gap, as seen in past quantum supremacy claims.
Zuchongzhi 3.0’s exceptional performance paves the way for more practical quantum computing applications, promising a new era of solving complex real-world challenges. The progress made in quantum gate fidelity and reduced noise sensitivity places China’s quantum processing technology at the forefront of global developments.
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Australia has banned Chinese AI startup DeepSeek from all government devices, citing security risks.
World leaders gathered in Paris for the second day of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit, where the focus turned to balancing national interests with global cooperation.
DeepSeek, an up-and-coming AI startup from China, is rapidly pushing forward the release of its latest AI model, R2, following the remarkable success of its predecessor, R1.
Elon Musk’s AI startup, xAI, has unveiled its latest AI model, Grok-3, which the billionaire claims is the most advanced chatbot technology.
The New York Times has officially approved the use of AI tools for its editorial and product teams, allowing AI to assist with tasks such as generating social media copy, writing SEO headlines, and coding.
Microsoft has announced a groundbreaking quantum computing chip, Majorana 1, which it claims could make useful quantum computers a reality within years.
China has warned that the United States‘ efforts to pressure other nations into targeting its semiconductor industry will ultimately backfire.
Infrastructure
A state-of-the-art space lab on the outskirts of Cairo, touted as Africa’s first satellite production facility, has been built with substantial Chinese involvement.
Elon Musk’s Starlink network is facing increasing competition in the satellite internet market, particularly from SpaceSail, a Shanghai-based company backed by the Chinese government, and Amazon’s Project Kuiper.
Cybersecurity
The EU Commission introduced a proposal aimed at strengthening the EU’s response to large-scale cyber attacks.
Hackers have stolen $1.5 billion from Dubai-based cryptocurrency exchange Bybit in what is believed to be the largest digital heist in history.
Following the recent security breach at Bybit, major cryptocurrency firms have joined forces to combat the attack and mitigate its impact.
Digital rights
Elon Musk has reignited his rivalry with OpenAI by leading a consortium in a staggering $97.4 billion bid to acquire the nonprofit that governs the ChatGPT creator.
South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) has raised concerns about the Chinese AI app DeepSeek, accusing it of excessively collecting personal data and using it for training purposes.
TikTok has introduced a new method for US Android users to download the app directly from its website, bypassing restrictions imposed by app stores.
A US federal judge has denied a request to temporarily block Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing data from seven federal agencies or making further workforce cuts.
Legal
An online education company has filed a lawsuit against Google, claiming its AI-generated search overviews are damaging digital publishing.
The Trump administration is reevaluating the conditions of CHIPS and Science Act subsidies, which allocate $39 billion to boost domestic semiconductor production.
Elon Musk-owned social media platform X has successfully removed a judge from a German court case concerning demands for real-time election data.
Trump Media & Technology Group and Rumble have filed an emergency motion in a US court against Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.
Internet economy
Chinese investors are flocking to AI-related stocks, betting that the success of home-grown startup DeepSeek will propel China to the forefront of the AI race amid the escalating Sino-US technology conflict.
In a meeting at the White House on Friday, US President Donald Trump and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang discussed the emerging challenges posed by China’s AI advancements, particularly the rapid rise of DeepSeek that has disrupted the global tech industry.
Macron announced private sector investments totalling around 109 billion euros ($112.5 billion) in its AI sector at the Paris AI summit, according to President Emmanuel Macron.
Elon Musk, who is leading Donald Trump’s federal cost-cutting initiative, has announced that efforts are underway to shut down the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
President Donald Trump confirmed on Wednesday that he was in active discussions with China over the future of TikTok, as the US seeks to broker a sale of the popular app.
Elon Musk’s social media company X is currently discussing raising funds from investors at a $44 billion valuation.
Development
Alibaba has announced plans to invest at least 380 billion yuan ($52.44 billion) in cloud computing and AI infrastructure over the next three years.
US drugmaker Amgen has announced a $200 million investment in a new technology centre in southern India, which will focus on using AI and data science to support the development of new medicines.
Sociocultural
A German court has ruled that Elon Musk’s social media platform X must provide researchers with data to track the spread of misinformation ahead of the country’s national election on 23 February.
French prosecutors have launched an investigation into X, formerly known as Twitter, over alleged algorithmic bias.
Meta has launched a new initiative with UNESCO to enhance AI language recognition and translation, focusing on underserved languages.
A Russian court has fined Google 3.8 million roubles (£32,600) for hosting YouTube videos that allegedly instructed Russian soldiers on how to surrender.
Mexico has strongly opposed Google’s decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the ‘Gulf of America’ for US Google Maps users.
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Data Protection Day 2025: A new mandate for data protection
Data Protection Day 2025 brought experts to Brussels and online to discuss the latest privacy challenges. The event featured key speeches, panels, and discussions on data protection enforcement, international cooperation, and the impact of emerging technologies.
In his keynote, Leonardo Cervera Navas warned about algorithms being used to destabilise the EU democracies and the power imbalance caused by tech monopolies. Despite these challenges, he emphasised that European values and regulatory tools like the Digital Clearing House 2.0 could help uphold privacy.
A panel moderated by Kait Bolongaro examined data protection priorities and enforcement challenges. European Data Protection Supervisor Wojciech Wiewiorowski stressed the role of strong data protection authorities (DPAs) in ensuring GDPR compliance. Matthias Kloth highlighted the modernisation of Convention 108+ as a key legal advancement. The discussion also covered international cooperation, with panellists agreeing that while global collaboration is necessary, privacy standards must not be diluted.
Audience questions raised concerns about the complexity and cost of enforcing privacy rights. Wiewiorowski saw no major GDPR overhaul in the near future but suggested procedural adjustments. Jo Pierson proposed that civil society organisations assist individuals facing legal barriers. The discussion also touched on China’s DeepSeek AI, with panellists refraining from labelling it a threat but stressing the need for Europe to control AI training datasets. Wiewiorowski likened the AI race to the Cold War’s ‘Sputnik moment,’ questioning if Europe was falling behind.
A session on future data protection challenges, led by Anna Buchta, highlighted regulatory complexity. Marina Kaljurand noted a significant digital knowledge gap among European lawmakers, complicating policy decisions. She also raised concerns about the UK’s adequacy decision, which expires in June 2025, and worsening US-EU relations under Trump. UK Information Commissioner John Edwards emphasised AI’s disruptive impact on biometrics and tracking, while Alberto Di Felice from DIGITALEUROPE criticised excessive bureaucracy, advocating for streamlined regulatory oversight.
Beatriz de Anchorena, head of Argentina’s data protection authority, championed Convention 108+ as a global privacy standard. Argentina, the first non-European country to receive EU adequacy, has remained a leader in data protection reform.
A discussion on neuroscience and privacy, moderated by Ella Mein, explored ethical concerns surrounding brain data. Professor Marcello Ienca warned of potential ‘neuro-discrimination’ and the dangers of exploiting brain data. ECtHR Jurisconsult Anna Austin highlighted legal challenges, noting the high standards required for data waivers.
The final panel, led by Gabriela Zanfir-Fortuna, addressed the need for stronger enforcement. Johnny Ryan of the Irish Council for Civil Liberties criticised the EU’s slow response to data misuse, while Nora Ni Loideain emphasised the GDPR’s role in giving DPAs greater enforcement power.
The event underscored the need for robust regulation, global cooperation, and better enforcement mechanisms to protect privacy in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Legacy media vs social media and alternative media channels
The rapid spread of digital information has transformed communication, offering opportunities and challenges. While social media and alternative platforms have democratised access to information, they have also enabled misinformation, deepfakes, and sensationalism to flourish. The tension between traditional media and these new forms of communication is at the heart of current debates on content policy and media integrity.
The case of Novak Djokovic at the 2025 Australian Open highlights this shift. After a Channel 9 journalist made derogatory remarks about him and his Serbian supporters, Djokovic refused an on-court interview and took to social media to share his perspective. His video went viral, attracting support from figures like Elon Musk, who criticised traditional media as a ‘negativity filter,’ This incident underscored the ability of social media to bypass mainstream media narratives, raising questions about journalistic objectivity, editorial oversight, and the role of direct communication in shaping public discourse.
Elon Musk’s experience with the media further highlights these dynamics. After traditional media misrepresented a gesture he made at a public event, Musk turned to X (formerly Twitter) to counter the narrative. His criticism of ‘legacy media’ as biassed and slow to adapt resonated with many, reinforcing the growing preference for direct, unfiltered communication. However, this shift presents risks, as social media and alternative platforms lack the editorial oversight that traditional outlets provide, allowing misinformation to spread more easily.
The rise of podcasts, independent media, and social networks has disrupted traditional journalism, offering new ways to engage audiences. While these platforms provide greater freedom of expression, they raise concerns about accuracy, misinformation, and accountability. The challenge remains in balancing openness with factual integrity, ensuring that media—whether traditional or alternative—serves the public responsibly in an era where the boundaries between truth and fabrication continue to blur.
Vodafone UK has teamed up with IBM to explore quantum-safe cryptography as part of a new Proof of Concept (PoC) test for its mobile and broadband services, particularly for users of its ‘Secure Net’ anti-malware service. While quantum computers are still in the early stages of development, they could eventually break current internet encryption methods. In anticipation of this, Vodafone and IBM are testing how to integrate new post-quantum cryptographic standards into Vodafone’s existing Secure Net service, which already protects millions of users from threats like phishing and malware.
IBM’s cryptography experts have co-developed two algorithms now recognised in the US National Institute of Standards and Technology’s first post-quantum cryptography standards. This collaboration, supported by Akamai Technologies, aims to make Vodafone’s services more resilient against future quantum computing risks. Vodafone’s Head of R&D, Luke Ibbetson, stressed the importance of future-proofing digital security to ensure customers can continue enjoying safe internet experiences.
Although the PoC is still in its feasibility phase, Vodafone hopes to implement quantum-safe cryptography across its networks and products soon, ensuring stronger protection for both business and consumer users.
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The rise of quantum computing poses a serious threat to modern encryption systems, with experts warning that critical digital infrastructure could become vulnerable once quantum devices reach sufficient power.
Unlike classical computers that process binary bits, quantum computers use qubits, allowing them to perform vast numbers of calculations simultaneously.
This capability could make breaking widely used encryption methods, like RSA, possible in minutes—something that would take today’s computers thousands of years.
Although quantum systems powerful enough to crack encryption may still be years away, there is growing concern that hackers could already be collecting encrypted data to decode it once the technology catches up.
Sensitive information—such as national security data, intellectual property, and personal records—could be at risk. In response, the US National Institute of Standards and Technology has introduced new post-quantum encryption standards and is encouraging organisations to transition swiftly, though the scale of the upgrade needed across global infrastructure remains immense.
Updating web browsers and modern devices may be straightforward, but older systems, critical infrastructure, and the growing number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices pose significant challenges.
Satellites, for instance, vary in how easily they can be upgraded, with remote sensing satellites often requiring full replacements. Cybersecurity experts stress the need for ‘crypto agility’ to make the transition manageable, aiming to avoid a chaotic scramble once quantum threats materialise.
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According to Bitcoin exchange River, Microsoft’s latest quantum computing chip, Majorana 1, could accelerate the timeline for making Bitcoin resistant to quantum threats. While the risk of a quantum attack remains distant, experts warn that preparations must begin now. The chip, launched on 19 February, is part of a growing race in quantum technology, with Google’s Willow chip also making headlines in December.
River suggests that if quantum computers reach one million qubits by 2027-2029, they could crack Bitcoin addresses in long-range attacks. Though some argue such a scenario is still decades away, River insists early action is key. The potential threat has reignited discussions on BIP-360, a proposed upgrade to strengthen Bitcoin’s defences against future quantum advancements.
Critics remain sceptical, arguing that quantum computing is still in its infancy, with major technical challenges to overcome. Some believe traditional banking systems, which hold far greater assets than Bitcoin, would be targeted first. Others see quantum developments as an opportunity, suggesting they could help fortify Bitcoin’s security rather than weaken it.
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