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Recently, scientists from the University of Science and Technology of China accomplished the world’s first quantum teleportation between independent sources in the intercity communication network of Hefei, Anhui province, People’s Daily reported. Quantum teleportation is used to deliver quantum information, which is enciphered in photons, from one place to another.

This research result was published online by Nature Photonics on Sept. 19. The finding of a Canadian research team on quantum teleportation was also published in the same journal. Together, these two research projects demonstrate that it is feasible to conduct quantum teleportation within an intercity network. They have also laid a solid foundation for the construction of a more expansive quantum network in the future.

Zhang Qiang, a professor at the University of Science and Technology of China, explained that private quantum communication currently uses a quantum key to encrypt classified information. As the technology develops, the transmission of quantum information will be realized, and quantum teleportation - which depends on optical networks - will greatly enhance the security and strength of Internet connections.