US-based D-Wave Quantum and NTT Docomo claimed quantum optimisation pilots increased the operator’s mobile network performance by 15 per cent, potentially leading to increased efficiencies and lower infrastructure costs.

NTT Docomo tested D-Wave’s hybrid-quantum technology to reduce congestion at base stations by decreasing paging signals during peak calling periods.

The hybrid-quantum technology was used to optimise base station tracking areas which collectively send paging signals and process extensive historical data on device movements between stations.

NTT Docomo and D-Wave stated it allows the operator to predict future movement patterns, while determining the best combination of base stations to re-establish connections as devices move between tracking areas.

D-Wave stated its hybrid solver completed a task in 40 seconds compared with 27 hours for a general-purpose system.

In addition to the reduction in paging signals, the quantum technology allowed approximately 1.2-times more terminals to be connected during periods of high-call volume.

Takatoshi Okagawa, director of research and development strategy at NTT Docomo, stated its “quantum optimisation strategy will further refine network efficiency, allowing us to maintain high-quality service without additional infrastructure investments as network traffic increases”.

The operator plans to deploy the quantum computing technology in branch offices across Japan.