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New quantum protocol breaks distance and speed barriers in fiber networks

Scientists at the University of Science and Technology of China have successfully deployed a multi-mode quantum relay network, achieving matter–matter entanglement over 14.5 kilometers, according to media reports.

The system, known as Xinghan-2, was detailed in the journal Nature Photonics on May 7. It addresses a key bottleneck in quantum communication by achieving both high transmission rates and high fidelity at the same time.

Quantum relays are seen as essential for the future quantum internet, as they help prevent signal loss over long distances by dividing communication channels into shorter segments. Previous approaches often involved a trade-off between the high speeds of single-photon interference and the high precision of two-photon interference.

Giving X-ray vision a sense of direction

Whether in tooth enamel or in nanomaterials made of silicon, the orientation of tiny internal structures often determines the properties of a material. A new X-ray method can even make this nano-order visible when the structures are actually too small to be imaged directly. The method was developed by an international team led by the Helmholtz Center Hereon, and it opens up new possibilities to investigate materials and biological structures. The research is published in the journal Light: Science & Applications.

In medical X-ray imaging, the picture is created by the varying attenuation of X-rays in the body. In order to examine materials or biological tissue in detail, experts use advanced techniques that provide additional information, such as dark-field imaging. This technique exploits the fact that X-rays are scattered, i.e., deflected, at internal interfaces and irregularities. “The scattering reveals a lot about internal structures that are not directly visible in the actual image,” explains Hereon researcher Sami Wirtensohn, first author of the study.

To make these fine structures visible, the dark field method blocks the direct X-ray beam. This allows the detector to capture only the radiation scattered inside the sample. Until now, this method has only been able to show that such structures exist, but not how they are spatially aligned.

This Magnetic Field Trick Creates Entirely New Forms of Matter

Scientists have shown that changing magnetic fields in precise ways can create exotic quantum matter that does not normally exist. The discovery could eventually lead to more reliable quantum technologies and powerful new computing systems.

Quantum technology is widely seen as one of the most promising future tools for processing massive and complicated amounts of information. Although most quantum systems are still confined to laboratories and research facilities, scientists are steadily working toward applications that could eventually impact industries across the economy.

Magnetic fields and exotic quantum states.

IOS 26.5 Brings Default End-to-End Encrypted RCS Messaging Between iPhone and Android

RCS is a modern, internet-based messaging protocol that allows Android and iPhone users to send high-resolution photos and videos, see typing indicators, and receive read receipts, features all typically present in instant messaging apps. It is built on an industry specification called the RCS Universal Profile.

“When RCS messages are end-to-end encrypted, they can’t be read while they’re sent between devices,” Apple said in a statement. “Users will know that a conversation is end-to-end encrypted when they see a new lock icon in their RCS chats.”

Apple began testing with E2EE in RCS messages in iOS and iPadOS 26.4 Beta, initially limiting it to only conversations between Apple devices. In early 2025, the GSM Association (GSMA) announced support for E2EE for safeguarding messages sent via the RCS protocol.

US govt seeks Instructure testimony on massive Canvas cyberattack

The U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security is calling on Instructure executives to testify about two cyberattacks by the ShinyHunters extortion group that targeted the company’s Canvas platform, allowing threat actors to steal student data and disrupt schools during final exams.

In a letter sent Monday afternoon to Instructure CEO Steve Daly, Homeland Security Committee Chairman Andrew R. Garbarino said the committee is investigating the massive breach at Instructure that impacts millions of students.

“The Committee on Homeland Security (Committee) is investigating the concerning reports related to recent cybersecurity incidents affecting Instructure Holdings, Inc. and the tens of millions of students, educators, and administrators who rely on its Canvas learning management platform,” reads the letter.

Signal adds security warnings for social engineering, phishing attacks

Signal has introduced new in-app confirmations and warning messages as additional safeguards against phishing and social engineering attempts that could lead to various forms of fraud.

The purpose is to introduce enough friction that users get the time to evaluate the safety of an external request.

Recently, there have been attacks targeting high-profile users with bogus ‘Signal Support’ alerts, as highlighted by the FBI, the Dutch government, and the German authorities.

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