– Successful Quantum Information Conversion and Routing Between Different Encoding Methods… World’s First Prototype – Operates at room temperature and on existing optical fibers… Presents the possibility of realizing quantum networks without specialized infrastructure Cisco has unveiled a key technology capable of resolving the 'language barrier' between different quantum computers. This is being hailed as a turning point that can expand quantum computing from a single-system-centric approach to a 'connectivity'-centric one. On the 24th, Cisco announced a research prototype for a 'Universal Quantum Switch' capable of converting and transmitting information between quantum systems from different vendors and using various encoding methods without loss. This technology marks the first instance of real-time conversion and routing of quantum information, which was previously impossible. The core layer of the 'Quantum Internet'… Connectivity creates scalability Currently, quantum computers have a structure where direct communication is difficult because information representation methods vary by manufacturer. Cisco has taken an approach that addresses this limitation through a 'network layer'. The newly unveiled quantum switch is equipped with a patent-based engine that converts various encoding methods, such as polarization, time bin, frequency bin, and path, in real time. This enables quantum systems of different types to be connected within a single network. In particular, it is characterized by operating at room temperature in existing fiber-optic communication networks, eliminating the need for separate cooling equipment or special infrastructure. In actual proof-of-concept (PoC) experiments, it succeeded in transmitting without information loss while maintaining quantum state fidelity degradation at less than 4%. Cisco believes that this lays the foundation for quantum computing to evolve beyond a competition in the performance of individual devices into "connection-based expansion." The explanation is that just as the Internet expanded through switches, quantum computing can also move toward practical industrial application through networks. Cisco stated, “Connecting