Vodafone has entered a new partnership with UK-based ORCA Computing to leverage quantum computing for complex network design and optimisation tasks. The collaboration is aimed at accelerating Vodafone’s ability to model fixed and mobile broadband networks, using ORCA’s PT-2 Series photonic quantum system to reduce cable length, optimise base station locations, and minimize civil engineering costs.
In a recent joint test, Vodafone used the ORCA quantum computer to solve the Steiner Tree Problem, a notoriously complex mathematical challenge, in minutes—a process that would have taken significantly longer on classical systems. The quantum acceleration could dramatically improve Vodafone’s capacity to plan infrastructure upgrades across its global network footprint, including over 200 international destinations and a subsea cable system that handles roughly one-sixth of the world’s internet traffic.
Under a signed Letter of Intent, Vodafone and ORCA will continue to co-develop algorithms for additional network planning use cases, including predictive maintenance and fault detection through AI integration. This aligns with Vodafone’s broader strategy to enhance its automation and machine learning capabilities while exploring quantum’s potential for practical telecom deployment.
- Vodafone to use ORCA’s PT-2 Series photonic quantum system for broadband and mobile network planning
- Quantum algorithms reduce cable length, optimise base station locations, and cut rollout costs
- Test case solved the Steiner Tree Problem in minutes using quantum computing
- Vodafone plans to expand use of quantum for predictive maintenance and global network modelling
- Partnership builds on the UK Quantum Technology Access Programme (QTAP)
“Our work with ORCA Computing aims to solve ultra-complex problems which otherwise would take many hours, weeks and even years to process on today’s classical computers,” said Luke Ibbetson, Head of Research & Development at Vodafone. “Modelling new networks that maximise speed, reliability and coverage for customers, while navigating urban clutter and rural obstacles, could in future take minutes.”
