Cisco unveiled its prototype quantum network entanglement chip in May 2025, marking a significant advancement toward a scalable quantum internet. Developed with UC Santa Barbara, the chip generates up to 200 million entangled photon pairs per second.
Designed for room temperature operation and compatibility with existing fiber optic networks, the chip integrates into current telecom infrastructure. Consuming less than 1 milliwatt of power, its miniaturized photonic integrated circuit design suits widespread deployment. Cisco also launched Cisco Quantum Labs in Santa Monica, California to foster innovation in quantum networking technologies.
Cisco's strategy includes a comprehensive quantum networking architecture featuring a distributed compiler, entanglement protocols, and post-quantum cryptography. This vendor-agnostic approach encourages quantum processor developers to focus on chip improvements while utilizing Cisco's networking infrastructure. Cisco anticipates impactful quantum computing applications within 5-10 years.