Vodafone has signed a Letter of Intent with ORCA Computing to evaluate photonic quantum computing for solving complex telecommunications optimization problems. The collaboration will use ORCA’s PT-2 Series photonic quantum system to assess network design tasks such as minimizing fiber cable length and optimizing mobile base station placement. The effort aims to reduce planning time from hours to minutes while enhancing the cost-efficiency and performance of Vodafone’s broadband and mobile networks.
The initiative focuses on applying quantum solutions to real-world challenges in network expansion, starting with optical fiber layout optimization. In a recent demonstration at the UK’s Quantum Technology Access Programme (QTAP), the partners used ORCA’s quantum system to solve the Steiner Tree Problem, a benchmark in network design, within minutes. Future joint efforts will develop new algorithms and define test projects aligned with Vodafone’s global network footprint, which includes a major subsea cable infrastructure and satellite broadband system.
The project reflects both companies’ broader strategic goals: Vodafone’s push for automation and intelligent infrastructure management, and ORCA’s commitment to practical quantum advantage. Both parties will assess the outcomes before formalizing a commercial agreement. The work also reinforces UK efforts to integrate quantum computing into national infrastructure development through public-private collaboration.
Read Vodafone’s official announcement here.
June 11, 2025
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