B2 – Upper Intermediate
Telefonica (TEF) has teamed up with IQM and CESGA to bring Spain its first quantum computers, including a 54‑qubit system for advanced research and a 5‑qubit system for education and training. This marks a major step for Spain in joining the global quantum computing landscape.
The partnership aims to provide researchers and industry with access to hybrid quantum‑classical computing, accelerating innovation in science, technology, and AI. It also positions Spain as a growing hub for quantum technology development in Europe.
Read the article to know more.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “to underscore” mean? “Telefonica’s involvement underscores the growing importance of quantum computing beyond academia.” Give a synonym. Use ‘underscore’ in a sentence.
- What is “free cash flow (FCF)”? “Financial goals include 1.5–2.5% revenue and EBITDA CAGR through 2028, accelerating to 2.5–3.5% from 2028–2030, alongside stronger, de-risked free cash flow and continued investment-grade strength.” Use it in a sentence.
- What is “dividend”? “The company has confirmed a dividend of €0.30 per share for 2025, set a dividend of €0.15 per share for 2026, and plans to allocate 40–60% of free cash flow to dividends for 2027–2028.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- Share your thoughts and reaction to this, “Scheduled for delivery by June 2026, the deployment positions CESGA among Europe’s most advanced high-performance computing (HPC) centres and significantly strengthens Spain’s role in next-generation computing technologies.“
- How do you think quantum computing could change the way companies like Telefónica operate in the next 5–10 years, and do you think Europe can become a global leader in this technology?
- Why is it important for Europe to achieve technological autonomy in telecom and computing?
- How might combining quantum computing with AI and high-performance computing change research or everyday life?
- “IQM Spark system for education” Should schools and universities focus on teaching emerging technologies like quantum computing?