IonQ and EPB launch quantum communications center IonQ and Chattanooga utility and communications provider EPB are establishing the Tennessee Quantum Communications Research Center, a new laboratory designed to test quantum networking technology on a live fiber-optic network. The partners say the facility will become the first dedicated quantum communications R&D center to connect directly to an operational network. For eeNews Europe readers, the project offers a practical look at how quantum memory and networking technologies could move beyond laboratory demonstrations. It also highlights growing investment in the infrastructure needed to connect quantum computers over longer distances. Quantum memory on a live network Based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the center will be staffed by IonQ scientists and will host what the companies describe as the world’s first commercial quantum memory unit embedded in an operational communications network. Quantum memory is intended to store and process quantum information transmitted through fiber channels. This could make it easier for quantum computers and network nodes to exchange information reliably over long distances, supporting future distributed computing, security and sensing applications. “Interconnecting quantum computers at multiple locations and linking them directly to end users lays the foundation for the full suite of applications of quantum communications,” said IonQ Chairman and CEO Niccolo de Masi. “Quantum Memories that store and process quantum information over fiber channels are essential building blocks for transforming quantum machines into more powerful long-range architectures. Establishing a Quantum Memory R&D capability that sits atop a working fiber optic network will speed the development and deployment of innovative quantum technologies to accelerate commercialization of the Quantum Internet, driving economic growth and job creation within participating communities.” IonQ has committed $15 million to the initiative over five years. EPB will provide the live network test environment and act as the main commercialization partner, helping translate