China Telecom Quantum Group has unveiled what it described as the world’s first commercial cryptography system that cannot be hacked even by quantum computers. The company said it had also completed the world’s first cross-regional quantum-encrypted phone call over a distance of more than 1,000 km between Beijing and Hefei using this integrated system. With the rapid advancement of quantum computing, traditional cybersecurity frameworks face unprecedented challenges as new algorithms increase the chances of cracking traditional encryption systems. The new system uses both Quantum Key Distribution, which uses the principles of quantum mechanics to securely transmit encryption keys, and Post-Quantum Cryptography, which relies on complex mathematical problems to lock down data. China Telecom said this combination forms an end-to-end quantum-secure architecture for real-time communication, data protection and trusted identity authentication.
Peng Chengzhi, Chief Quantum Scientist at China Telecom and Professor at the University of Science and Technology of China, said that public key-based encryption systems would face increasing threats as global quantum computing advanced. He also called for the accelerated development of a new quantum-resistant cybersecurity infrastructure. The company has already built quantum metropolitan area networks in 16 key cities, including Hefei, Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou. These networks form a nationwide, cross-regional backbone of quantum-secure communication, positioning China at the forefront of global quantum security. Among them, the Hefei Quantum network is the largest and most comprehensive of its kind worldwide. With eight core nodes and 159 access points spanning 1,147 km of quantum key distribution fibre, it currently serves around 500 government agencies and 380 state-owned enterprises (SOEs).
China Telecom has also launched Quantum Secret, which it describes as the world’s first carrier-grade quantum-secure instant messaging and collaboration platform, and Quantum Cloud Seal, a platform for government approvals, financial audits, and enterprise workflow management. Both platforms have already seen broad industry adoption, the South China Morning Post reports.
