ICFO at MWC26: Advancing Europe’s Quantum Communication Ecosystem

From March 2-5, 2026, ICFO curated the Quantum Flagship booth at Mobile World Congress, one of the world’s largest technology trade shows that brings together companies, innovators, and experts from the mobile and connectivity industries to showcase new products, technologies, and trends, aiming to explore the future of the telecommunications field and technology.

During the week, the booth served as a meeting point for researchers, industry representatives and innovators interested in the development of quantum technologies and their potential to transform the future of secure communications. Visitors had the opportunity to learn about Europe’s progress in quantum research and innovation, and to exchange perspectives on the challenges and opportunities associated with deploying quantum-enabled communication infrastructures.

The space hosted flagship partners from the Quantum Internet Alliance (QIA) and the Quantum Secure Networks Partnership (QSNP), highlighting the collaborative efforts that are driving the advancement of quantum communication networks across Europe. The presence of these initiatives reflected the strong connections between research institutions, industry partners and emerging companies working together to translate quantum science into practical technologies.

Additionally, ICFOnians actively participated in different panels and presentations by contributing and participating in discussions that addressed the strategic role of quantum technologies. Firstly, ICREA Prof. Hugues de Riedmatten participated alongside Vanesa Díaz, Luxquanta CEO, in the session “Quantum Innovations for Secure Communications”, where they discussed how initiatives such as QIA and QSNP are advancing the development and deployment of quantum-based secure networks and strengthening Europe’s capabilities in next-generation cybersecurity.

Secondly, ICFO’s Vice Director of Innovation, Sponsored Research and Public Engagement, Dr. Silvia Carrasco, participated in the roundtable discussion “La Nueva Soberanía: Poder Cuántico y el rediseño del Mapa Tecnológico Global”, which explored the growing geopolitical and technological importance of quantum technologies in a place and time where technological sovereignty is needed. The panel addressed how emerging quantum capabilities are actually influencing and driving this technological sovereignty and reshaping the global innovation landscape.

Finally, the presence of several ICFO spin-offs at the congress further illustrated the institute’s role and strong commitment in fostering frontier research innovation and seeking to transfer the technology to the market. Companies including LuxQuanta, Quside, ShinePhi and Arq Quantum Technologies were present, showcasing solutions based on research developed at ICFO and demonstrating how quantum technologies are beginning to reach real-world applications and markets.

As one of the world’s leading technology events, MWC provides a unique platform to connect with industry leaders, policymakers and innovators from across the digital ecosystem. ICFO’s participation highlights the increasing relevance of quantum communication technologies and how they are shaping the future of secure digital infrastructures, which reinforces Europe’s commitment in leading the race in this rapidly evolving field.