CUbIQ and Coherent demo quantum key distribution in standard pluggable

CUbIQ Technologies and Coherent Corp. (NYSE: COHR) announced a successful proof-of-concept demonstration of quantum key distribution technology designed to integrate with existing AI network infrastructure, according to a press release issued Sept. 21, 2026.

The demonstration features CUbIQ's Continuous Variable Quantum Key Distribution transceiver housed in a standard QSFP-28 pluggable form factor. The technology was tested alongside Coherent's 200G FR4 optical transceivers on a commercially available Nvidia DGX Spark system through its ConnectX-7 interface, requiring no modifications to the existing network.

The pluggable format differs from conventional rack-mounted QKD systems in that it occupies a standard network port rather than dedicated hardware. CUbIQ claims the approach reduces power consumption, cost, and physical footprint by a factor of 100 compared with rack-based QKD alternatives.

The system derives encryption keys from the quantum properties of the optical signal itself. According to the companies, any interception attempt leaves a measurable change on the link, allowing compromised keys to be detected and discarded before use.

"This work with Coherent Corp. proves that quantum-safe networking can be demonstrated on the AI infrastructure that operators are already deploying," said Aaron Albores Mejia, CEO of CUbIQ Technologies.

The companies also stated they are working toward a next generation of secure, high-capacity optical pluggable transceivers, though no timeline or specifications were provided.

The demonstration is being shown at ECOC 2026 in Málaga, Spain, running Sept. 21–23, at Booth 1051 in the Dutch Pavilion. CUbIQ Technologies is headquartered in Eindhoven, Netherlands.

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