▾Quantum technologies are relentlessly approaching and promise to revolutionize many areas. Quantum internet and quantum compasses are within our reach. A future without hackers and GPS may become a reality sooner than we think. However, scientists still face numerous obstacles, overcoming which may not be straightforward.
Quantum physics opens doors to a world of unprecedented possibilities, and scientists are racing to find its practical applications. It seems that the areas where quantum technologies will soon enter history will be the internet and possibly navigation.
Quantum internet: The unhackable network of the future?
Imagine an internet that is practically unhackable and opens doors to unprecedented computational power. This is the promise of the concept of quantum internet, which is slowly but surely becoming a reality.
Scientists from Leibniz University in Hanover conducted an experiment that could signify a breakthrough in connecting quantum technologies with existing internet infrastructure. They managed to send quantum information and classic data in the form of ones and zeros through a single optical fiber.
The key to success is the use of a special technique that allows shifting the phase of signals within the optical fiber. As a result, both quantum and classical data exist on the same frequency channel without interfering with each other.
Although this experiment is a significant step forward, the quantum internet still faces challenges. For instance, scientists are trying to extend the distance over which quantum information can be transferred without loss and are exploring ways to manage traffic in existing networks.
Quantum compasses: Goodbye GPS?
Navigation without GPS? This could also soon become a reality thanks to quantum compasses. These devices use quantum phenomena to determine position and promise independence from satellites.
Researchers from Sandia National Laboratory have made significant progress in miniaturizing the laser system essential for the functioning of quantum compasses. Specifically, they managed to shrink a system the size of a refrigerator into a miniature chip.
Quantum compasses operate on the principle of atomic interferometry. This utilizes the wave properties of atoms to measure acceleration, rotation, and angular velocity. These quantities then allow for determining the position without the need for satellite communication.
Although miniature quantum compasses are not yet ready for mass production, scientists are not giving up. They are working on miniaturizing other components and integrating them into a single chip. In the future, quantum compasses could find applications in areas where GPS is unavailable, such as densely built cities or even underwater.
digital carbon footprint: how the internet and online services burden the planet
Everyday online activities have a real energy footprint that quickly multiplies in total. In the article, we will look at what digital carbon footprint means, how much energy regular internet use costs, and which activities burden the environment the most. Areas where consumption is growing the fastest and impact is not immediately visible deserve special attention.
Is blue light really a problem? The answer isn't so simple
The topic of blue light has led to many simplifications and unnecessary fears. Blue light exposure before sleep is often discussed, but its impact is not limited to just sleep. Let's put things in context, separate facts from myths, and see when it makes sense to address its effects and when it is more about excessive concern.
Are you chatting with a human or a bot? How to identify AI in chat
Online chats are often handled by artificial intelligence today, and at first glance, the responses appear to be from a real person. This is especially true for customer support, where speed and fluency are key. We'll look at how to identify AI in chat, what signs you can use to distinguish it from a human, and where the line of recognition becomes very thin.
What is ransomware and why does it no longer threaten only large companies?
Ransomware attacks are among the most common cyber threats today and are no longer just a concern for large companies. Just one careless click can cost you access to your data. We'll explain what ransomware is, how it works, and why attackers are increasingly targeting average users and smaller businesses.
How zero trust works: why mere connectivity no longer means safety
Connecting to the internet today is not just a matter of speed but also of trust. Networks handle more and more devices, sensitive data, and services that communicate almost constantly. This is why an approach called zero trust has emerged, where nothing is automatically considered safe. The article explains why this model was created and how it subtly influences everyday internet functioning.
10 reasons why your phone is drained sooner than expected
It happens that the battery life decreases faster than one would expect, even when the device is not particularly stressed during the day. Often, it's not a single specific error but a sum of small influences that gradually accumulate. This article explains what has the greatest impact on battery life, when idle draining occurs, and why this can turn into an issue causing the phone not to last even one day.