The programmable photonic quantum computer, Jiuzhang 4.0, secured the leading prize at the 2026 World Internet Conference (WIC) in Wuzhen, Zhejiang Province, on Monday. Among a field of over 430 submissions from 43 countries and regions, 20 projects received the WIC Leading Science and Technology Awards, recognizing achievements spanning basic research, key technologies, and engineering development. The awards aim to recognize technological advances worldwide and promote international exchanges and cooperation in internet technologies. Winning projects also included advancements in optical transmission for space-based quantum information and intelligent vehicle agent technology.
Jiuzhang 4.0 Receives 2026 WIC Leading Science and Technology Award
Ten winning projects focused on key technologies, while eight demonstrated advancements in engineering and development, reflecting a trend toward digital-real economy integration. These awards, presented Monday in Wuzhen, Zhejiang Province, aim to support international collaboration in internet technologies and acknowledge work globally. The WIC noted that the award-winning projects span a range of fields, including quantum computing, AI, aerospace information and agent-based productivity platforms. This year’s selections highlight AI-driven development and strengthened technological foundations, signaling priorities in current innovation efforts.
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