1Q: First-Generation Wireless Systems Integrating Classical and Quantum Communication

TL;DR

1Q envisions the first wireless generation that simultaneously supports classical and quantum communication by introducing quantum base stations, quantum cells, and quantum user equipment to enable entanglement distribution via free-space optical links alongside traditional radio. The paper develops a system model and architectural framework that integrates quantum resources with classical networks, discusses spectrum and decoherence-inspired timing constraints, and presents application scenarios in distributed quantum computing, QKD, and wireless quantum sensing. It also outlines architectural considerations, protocol-stack interactions, and practical handover and resource-management challenges, laying a path toward a Quantum Internet-enabled cellular network. The work highlights the critical need for joint quantum-classical optimization, error correction tailored for wireless environments, and standards for cross-layer integration to realize 1Q in future mobile ecosystems.

Abstract

We introduce the concept of 1Q, the first wireless generation of integrated classical and quantum communication. 1Q features quantum base stations (QBSs) that support entanglement distribution via free-space optical links alongside traditional radio communications. Key new components include quantum cells, quantum user equipment (QUEs), and hybrid resource allocation spanning classical time-frequency and quantum entanglement domains. Several application scenarios are discussed and illustrated through system design requirements for quantum key distribution, blind quantum computing, and distributed quantum sensing. A range of unique quantum constraints are identified, including decoherence timing, fidelity requirements, and the interplay between quantum and classical error probabilities. Protocol adaptations extend cellular connection management to incorporate entanglement generation, distribution, and handover procedures, expanding the Quantum Internet to the cellular wireless.

Figures (8)

• Figure 1: Comparison between wireless transmissions in the classical and quantum domains. Each subfigure shows the memories of two users, Alice and Bob, at each timeslot $t_i$. \ref{['fig:transmissionClassic']} shows the wireless transmission of a classical bit. \ref{['fig:transmissionQuantum']} shows the direct transmission of quantum information using a flying qubit. \ref{['fig:transmissionTeleport']} shows quantum teleportation, where entanglement and a classical wireless transmission implements transmission of an arbitrary qubit $\ket{\psi}$. In timeslot $t_2$, Alice and Bob acquire a Bell pair either by generating it directly or requesting it from the 1Q system. Note that Bob first acquires a modified version of the qubit, denoted by $\ket{\tilde{\psi}}$, which, using the classical information, is finally transformed into the original qubit $\ket{\psi}$.
• Figure 2: Description of quantum teleportation and its associated circuit diagram. Alice holds the two topmost qubits, while Bob holds the bottommost. The labels $t_3$ to $t_6$ correspond to the timeslots given in Figure 1c.
• Figure 3: Basic functionalities of a Quantum Base Station (QBS). (a) Quantum wireless access: Creation of entangled pairs and distribution to devices within its coverage area. (b) Quantum analogy of classical broadcast: Creation and distribution of multi-partite entanglements within its coverage area. (c) Quantum forwarding: Entanglement swapping between a device within the coverage area and a quantum node connected to the QI.
• Figure 4: A primer of a 1Q system with classical/quantum base stations, cells, and , including both terrestrial and non-terrestrial coverage.
• Figure 5: Conceptual depiction of timing requirements, digital due to application and quantum due to decoherence.