Samsung Launches World’s First Smartphone With Quantum Encryption Tech
The new Samsung Galaxy A Quantum has arrived in the market. From the outside, it might look like a regular Android smartphone, but under-the-hood, it packs some futuristic tech to prevent itself from being abused by hackers.
What makes it special is that it’s the first smartphone to come equipped with a Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) chip. The chip is developed by SK Telecom’s subsidiary ID Quantique, which is based out of Switzerland. It brings quantum encryption capabilities to the device, allowing it to generate unpredictable random numbers and create security keys for apps and services.
Conventional random number generators currently used in smartphones are often a target for attackers. On the other hand, the QRNG setup that measures 2.5×2.5mm follows a different approach by including an LED and a CMOS sensor.
When light (photons) emitted from the LED is captured by the image sensor, the QRNG chip uses the information to analyze quantum randomness and comes up with a truly random number.
The generated random number can be fed to various smartphone apps for user authentication and generating encryption keys, for example, in mobile payment apps. However, the QRNG chip (aka SKT IDQ S2Q000) only works with SK Telecom’s services, which is kind of obvious.
As per SK Telecom, no technology in the market right now that can compromise the chip. So, we can assume it to be one of the safest solutions out there. Still, nothing is unhackable in today’s time.
Samsung Galaxy A Quantum Specifications
The Galaxy A Quantum is a rebranded Galaxy A71 5G if we set aside the QRNG chip. Here are the specifications of the device:
- Display: 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Infinity-O (1080 x 2400)
- SoC: Samsung Exynos 980 octa-core
- GPU: Mali-G76 MP5
- RAM/Storage: 8GB/128GB + microSD slot
- OS: One UI 2.0 (Android 10)
- Battery: 4500 mAh (25W Fast Charging)
- Biometrics: In-display fingerprint sensor
- Rear Camera: 64MP (Wide, PDAF) + 12MP (Ultra-wide) + 12MP (Macro) + 5MP Depth Sensor
- Front Camera: 32MP
- Connectivity: 5G, WiFI-AC, Bluetooth 5.0, Type-C (USB 2.0), 3.5m jack
The smartphone is available for pre-order in South Korea with a price tag of KRW649,000 ($530 approx.), starting May 15, and it will go on sale on May 22. Samsung is also giving a free pair of Galaxy Buds for all buyers who make the pre-booking.
