{
  "id": 1596470,
  "title": "New high-tech forum looks at photonics and quantum technology",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/17/new-high-tech-forum-looks-at-photonics-and-quantum-technology",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-17T23:59:10.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "RNZ Business",
    "slug": "rnz-business",
    "url": "https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/1046651/new-high-tech-forum-looks-at-photonics-and-quantum-technology"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "New Zealand is solidifying its role as a pioneer in light technology with the inauguration of Quantum & Photonics NZ, a premier high-tech forum. This new forum emerged from a partnership between the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and the New Zealand Institute of Advanced Technology (NZIAT), both of which aim to bolster the nation's investment in cutting-edge technologies, including AI and Quantum 2.0. Photonics, a key focus of Quantum 2.0, involves harnessing the power of the tiniest particles of light for applications in advanced lasers, sensors, and medical imaging. Potential uses span complex problem-solving, secure information systems, advanced materials, and ultra-precise measurement tools.\n\nTech New Zealand, in collaboration with NZIAT, convened a gathering of researchers, business leaders, and organizations involved in quantum technologies to evaluate their progress and determine if quantum tech should align with the NZIAT's scope. Tech NZ's chief executive, Graeme Muller, likened the disruptive potential of quantum technology to the Internet and AI, emphasizing the need to proactively build New Zealand's quantum community. Quantum technology is anticipated to be as transformative as the Internet and AI, prompting early action to establish a strong quantum presence.\n\nInitial members of the photonics group have been actively collaborating to promote New Zealand's leadership in photonics technology. Given that no other country is currently investing as heavily as New Zealand, Tech NZ's executive concluded that forming this forum was a logical next step. The NZIAT recently opened its new offices in Auckland, marking a significant milestone in the nation's quantum technological journey.",
  "summary": "New Zealand is doubling down on the leading role in plays it the development of light technologies with the launch of Quantum & Photonics NZ.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}