Articles tagged with "quantum-computing"
IBM Advances Quantum Computing with Nighthawk for Clean Energy Transformations - CleanTechnica
IBM has made significant advances in quantum computing with the introduction of its Nighthawk processor, a 120-qubit system unveiled in November 2025. Unlike previous generations focused on demonstrating feasibility, Nighthawk is engineered to scale circuit depth rather than just qubit count, addressing a critical bottleneck in quantum computing development. Paired with IBM’s Loon chip, which isolates errors instead of relying solely on brute-force error correction, this approach aims to manage noise and decoherence more realistically. Together, these technologies support IBM’s goal of achieving 1,000 logical qubits by 2028, integrated closely with classical high-performance computing in a hybrid model that augments rather than replaces classical systems. Nighthawk’s architecture uses a square lattice topology allowing each qubit to connect to four neighbors, enabling quantum circuits with up to 5,000 two-qubit gates—a 30% improvement over IBM’s previous Heron processor. IBM plans to increase this to 7,500 gates by
quantum-computingclean-energyIBM-Nighthawkquantum-processorsfault-tolerant-quantum-computingmaterials-scienceelectrochemistryOn-demand telecom photon source sets record 92% interference
Researchers at the University of Stuttgart have developed a deterministic single-photon source operating in the telecom C-band (around 1550 nanometers) that achieves a record-high photon indistinguishability of nearly 92%. This breakthrough addresses a major challenge in photonic quantum technology: producing on-demand photons that are both identical and compatible with existing fiber-optic communication networks. Prior deterministic sources in this wavelength range had only reached about 72% interference visibility, insufficient for demanding quantum applications, while probabilistic sources, though more indistinguishable, lack synchronization capabilities. The team used indium arsenide quantum dots embedded in indium aluminium gallium arsenide within a circular Bragg grating resonator to enhance photon emission efficiency. They discovered that lattice vibration-mediated excitation minimized noise and preserved photon coherence better than traditional optical pumping. This advancement enables scalable quantum technologies requiring synchronized, indistinguishable photons, such as measurement-based quantum computing and quantum repeaters for long-distance secure communication. By overcoming a decade-old bottleneck
quantum-computingphotonic-technologytelecom-photon-sourcequantum-dotsfiber-optic-communicationquantum-networkingindium-arsenide-materialsTaiwan builds 20-qubit quantum computer in domestic R&D push
Researchers at Taiwan’s Academia Sinica have developed a 20-qubit superconducting quantum computer entirely through domestic research and fabrication efforts, marking a significant advancement from their earlier 5-qubit system introduced in 2023. This new platform, now accessible to local researchers, demonstrates Taiwan’s capability to produce larger-scale, stable quantum chips suitable for complex quantum simulations and testing. The project leveraged semiconductor manufacturing expertise to overcome challenges in qubit uniformity, coupling precision, and interference, employing techniques like laser trimming and chip stacking to enhance performance and reduce crosstalk. A major breakthrough of the 20-qubit system is the substantial increase in qubit coherence time—from 15–30 microseconds in the previous model to 530 microseconds—allowing quantum states to remain stable for longer periods, which is critical for practical quantum computing. This improvement reflects tighter control over fabrication, packaging, and noise reduction, addressing the sensitivity of superconducting qubits to electromagnetic disturbances. Academia Sinica plans to further
quantum-computingsuperconducting-qubitsquantum-chip-fabricationmaterial-discoveryhigh-performance-computingsemiconductor-manufacturingquantum-simulationOne of the largest time crystals ever made to unlock new quantum paths
Researchers from IBM, Basque Quantum, and NIST have created one of the largest and most complex time crystals to date—a 144-qubit, two-dimensional structure—using IBM’s Quantum Heron chip. Time crystals are exotic quantum materials that exhibit repeating patterns in time rather than space and can only exist out of thermal equilibrium. Previously, time crystals were limited to small, one-dimensional chains due to the complexity of modeling larger systems. This breakthrough demonstrates the ability to build—not just simulate—large, robust time crystals, revealing new quantum dynamics and opening avenues for studying quantum materials, spin interactions, and nanoscale technologies. The team overcame significant challenges in verifying quantum results by employing a hybrid quantum-classical approach. They used tensor network methods and belief propagation on classical computers to approximate and refine the quantum states generated by the quantum hardware. This quantum-centric supercomputing strategy allowed for advanced error mitigation, significantly reducing uncertainty and improving the accuracy of the quantum computations. The research highlights the growing potential of integrating quantum
quantum-computingtime-crystalsquantum-materialsIBM-Quantum-Heron-chipnanoscale-technologiesquantum-researchquantum-physicsQuantum batteries could quadruple qubit capacity in future computers
Researchers from Australia’s CSIRO, the University of Queensland, and the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology have proposed a theoretical model for integrating quantum batteries directly into quantum computer architectures. This innovation could significantly enhance quantum computing by reducing heat generation, minimizing wiring complexity, and allowing up to four times more qubits to fit in the same physical space. Unlike traditional energy sources, these quantum batteries store energy from light and recharge internally during operation, effectively acting as an “internal fuel tank” that recycles energy and reduces reliance on external power grids and cooling systems. The integration of quantum batteries not only promises greater energy efficiency but also introduces a phenomenon called quantum superextensivity, where the addition of more qubits accelerates computing speed rather than slowing it down. This contrasts with current quantum computers, which face scaling challenges due to increased heat and infrastructure demands as qubit numbers grow. While the concept has been validated theoretically and published in Physical Review X, the next step for the research team is to develop a
energyquantum-batteriesquantum-computingenergy-efficiencyscalable-quantum-computerspower-consumptionadvanced-materialsNew 'optical cavity' can make million-qubit quantum computer network
Scientists at Stanford University have developed a novel "optical cavity" technology that efficiently collects single photons emitted by individual atoms, which serve as qubits—the fundamental units of quantum information. This breakthrough enables simultaneous readout of all qubits in a quantum computer, overcoming previous limitations where atoms emitted light too slowly and in all directions, making scalable quantum computing impractical. The team demonstrated an array of 40 cavities each coupled to a single atom, as well as a prototype with over 500 cavities, paving the way toward a million-qubit quantum computer network. Unlike traditional optical cavities formed by two mirrors, the researchers introduced microlenses inside each cavity to tightly focus light on single atoms, reducing the number of light bounces needed while enhancing quantum information retrieval. Their cavity-array microscope platform uses a free-space cavity geometry with intra-cavity lenses, achieving strong, uniform atom-cavity coupling and fast, non-destructive, parallel qubit readout on millisecond timescales. This architecture avoids nanoph
quantum-computingoptical-cavityqubitsquantum-networkphotonicsStanford-researchquantum-informationFAU to host Florida's first on-site 4,400-qubit quantum computer
Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is set to become the first university in Florida to host a large, dedicated quantum computer on campus by installing a D-Wave Advantage2 annealing quantum system with over 4,400 qubits. This deployment, expected later this year at FAU’s Boca Raton campus, will provide students and researchers direct, onsite access to advanced quantum hardware, enabling faster experimentation and hands-on training beyond the limitations of remote cloud-based systems. The quantum annealing system is designed to tackle complex optimization problems relevant to fields such as logistics, supply chain management, transportation planning, materials science, and artificial intelligence. The partnership between FAU and D-Wave Quantum Inc. extends beyond hardware installation to include joint research projects, workforce development, academic training, and applied innovation. FAU will establish a D-Wave Quantum Applications Academy offering paid internships and experiential learning to prepare students for emerging quantum industry roles. The initiative is supported by state and local governments aiming to boost job growth and strengthen
quantum-computingmaterials-scienceoptimizationlogisticsadvanced-computingresearch-collaborationtechnology-innovationUltra-fast photonic chips bring scalable quantum computers closer
German researchers at Julius Maximilian University of Würzburg have developed an ultra-fast, ultra-low-loss optical phase modulator by integrating ferroelectric barium titanate (BTO) with III-V photonics on a single chip platform. This innovation addresses a critical challenge in quantum computing: precisely controlling quantum light signals without destroying their fragile quantum information. The team grew their own high-purity BTO crystals using molecular beam epitaxy to maintain the necessary ferroelectric properties, enabling the modulator to operate at extremely high speeds with minimal optical losses. Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space, this breakthrough could accelerate the transition of quantum photonics from experimental setups to scalable, practical quantum technologies. Beyond the phase modulator, the researchers are developing a comprehensive toolkit for photonic quantum circuits, including waveguides, couplers, and integrated quantum light sources. Their modular approach, likened to assembling Lego bricks, allows for rapid design, fabrication, and testing of quantum circuits
materialsquantum-computingphotonic-chipsferroelectric-materialsbarium-titanatemolecular-beam-epitaxyquantum-photonicsMicrowaves offer a new way to detect electrons as quantum bits
Researchers at Japan’s RIKEN Center for Quantum Computation have developed a novel method to read quantum information stored in electrons suspended above liquid helium, potentially overcoming a major challenge in this unconventional quantum computing platform. Unlike traditional silicon-based qubits, electrons above liquid helium exist in an extremely clean and isolated environment, free from magnetic and chemical disturbances, which could allow qubits to maintain their quantum states for significantly longer durations. However, directly measuring the electron’s spin state is difficult due to its very small magnetic moment, prompting the team to explore indirect readout techniques. The researchers demonstrated that by monitoring transitions of electrons from their ground state to higher-energy Rydberg states, it is possible to infer the quantum state indirectly through changes in quantum capacitance. Using a large ensemble of about 10 million electrons forming a capacitor, they detected measurable shifts in microwave frequency corresponding to these transitions. This experimental validation suggests that similar capacitance changes could be detected at the single-electron level, providing a feasible and non-invasive
quantum-computingqubitselectron-spinliquid-heliumquantum-capacitancemicrowave-detectionquantum-information-storageNew US laser technology could unlock 100,000-qubit quantum computers
US researchers at Columbia University, led by Sebastian Will and Nanfang Yu, have developed a groundbreaking laser technology that could enable quantum computers with over 100,000 qubits. By integrating optical tweezers—laser beams that trap individual atoms—with metasurfaces, ultra-thin optical devices composed of millions of nanoscale pixels, the team significantly expanded the scale of neutral-atom arrays used for quantum computing. Neutral-atom arrays trap atoms as qubits in 1D, 2D, or 3D configurations, and the new approach overcomes previous limitations related to bulky, expensive optical components that restricted array size. The team successfully trapped 1,000 strontium atoms, demonstrating the viability of their method at scales far beyond current systems, such as the recent 6,100-atom array achieved by Caltech. Metasurfaces shape a single laser beam into tens of thousands of tightly focused spots simultaneously, enabling massively scalable optical tweezer arrays. Made from silicon nit
quantum-computinglaser-technologymetasurfacesoptical-tweezersnanotechnologysilicon-nitridetitanium-dioxideChina claims it's working on 10 quantum weapons for cyber warfare
China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is actively developing and testing over 10 experimental quantum cyberwarfare tools aimed at extracting high-value intelligence from public cyberspace and enhancing battlefield decision-making. Led by a supercomputing lab at the National University of Defense Technology, this initiative integrates quantum computing with cloud computing and artificial intelligence to process vast amounts of military data rapidly. PLA commanders believe these quantum capabilities will enable near real-time battlefield awareness, allowing faster decisions and more efficient resource allocation during conflicts where digital dominance and rapid adaptation are critical. Beyond cyber intelligence, the PLA is focusing on quantum sensing and positioning technologies to detect stealth threats and provide secure navigation resistant to GPS jamming or spoofing. Quantum sensing could improve air defense by identifying low-observable aircraft, while quantum positioning systems would ensure reliable navigation even when satellite signals are disrupted. Researchers are collaborating closely with front-line troops to tailor these technologies to operational needs, aiming to create unified situational awareness maps and enhance command and control capabilities. However, PLA
quantum-computingcyber-warfaremilitary-technologyquantum-sensingquantum-positioningartificial-intelligencedata-processingScientists discover 'impossible' quantum state at near absolute zero
Scientists at Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien), collaborating with theorists from Rice University, have discovered a novel quantum state that defies traditional physics assumptions about electron behavior at ultra-low temperatures near absolute zero. Using a cerium-ruthenium-tin (CeRu₄Sn₆) material cooled to below one degree above absolute zero, they observed a spontaneous anomalous Hall effect without any external magnetic field—a hallmark of topological behavior. This finding challenges the long-held belief that topological states require electrons to behave as well-defined particles with clear velocities and energies. Instead, the material exhibited intense quantum fluctuations where the usual quasiparticle model breaks down, yet topological properties still emerged. The research reveals that topological states can exist in a more abstract mathematical form, independent of particle-like electron states, leading to the identification of a new quantum phase termed an "emergent topological semimetal." This discovery broadens the understanding of topology in quantum materials and suggests that quantum critical
quantum-materialstopological-materialsquantum-statelow-temperature-physicsanomalous-Hall-effectadvanced-materialsquantum-computingLuminar lines up $22 million bidder for its lidar business
Luminar, a lidar technology company that filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in December 2025, has agreed to sell its lidar business to Quantum Computing Inc. for $22 million, subject to higher bids by a deadline on Monday. This sale follows Luminar’s plan to sell its semiconductor subsidiary to the same buyer for $110 million. Both transactions require approval from the bankruptcy court in the Southern District of Texas. Quantum Computing Inc. has been named the “stalking horse bidder,” setting a minimum price to discourage low offers. Luminar aims to expedite the bankruptcy process with support from its largest creditors, primarily financial institutions. The $22 million stalking horse bid marks a dramatic decline from Luminar’s peak valuation of approximately $11 billion in 2021, a period when the company was expected to secure large-scale contracts with automakers like Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, and Polestar—deals that eventually fell through. Austin Russell, Luminar’s founder and former CEO, has shown interest in bidding
robotlidarautonomous-vehiclessensorsquantum-computingbankruptcyautomotive-technologyHow world’s most powerful quantum chip outpaces fastest supercomputers
The article discusses the global race to develop utility-scale quantum computers, a technological frontier that promises to revolutionize computing by performing tasks in minutes that would take current supercomputers decades. Central to this advancement is the qubit, which, unlike classical binary bits, can represent multiple states simultaneously, exponentially increasing computational power. Google's Willow quantum chip, with 105 qubits, currently stands as the most powerful quantum computer, having completed the challenging random circuit sampling benchmark in five minutes—a task estimated to take the fastest supercomputer, the Frontier, 10 septillion years. Willow's superiority also stems from its advanced error correction capabilities, enabling repeated improvements and paving the way for larger, more powerful quantum machines within the next decade. Quantum computers are not intended for everyday use but for solving previously intractable problems in fields such as drug research, clean energy production, global hunger, and climate change. The race to develop these machines is also a geopolitical contest, with countries like the US and China heavily investing in
quantum-computingquantum-chipsupercomputerserror-correctionenergy-solutionsadvanced-computingtechnology-raceKorea's high-performance computing cluster to get 100-qubit quantum system
A Maryland-based company, IonQ, has finalized an agreement to deliver its next-generation 100-qubit Tempo quantum system to the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI). This system will be integrated into KISTI-6 (“HANGANG”), South Korea’s largest high-performance computing (HPC) cluster, marking the country’s first hybrid quantum-classical onsite integration. The compute cluster will be accessible remotely via a secure private cloud environment, enabling researchers, universities, and enterprises across South Korea to utilize the quantum computing resources. KISTI will lead the development and operation of a quantum computing service platform aimed at supporting both academic and enterprise applications. IonQ has been designated as the primary quantum technology provider, with Megazone Cloud assisting as a leading cloud service and infrastructure provider. This collaboration is seen as a significant advancement for South Korea’s quantum computing capabilities, enabling groundbreaking research and innovation in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and materials science. Both IonQ and KIST
quantum-computinghigh-performance-computingSouth-Korea-technologyquantum-systemscloud-computingresearch-innovationmaterials-scienceMichelle Simmons on why silicon could deliver the first fault-tolerant quantum computer
Michelle Simmons, a physicist trained in the UK and based in Australia, has been a pioneer in atomic-scale silicon electronics, demonstrating the world’s first single-atom transistor in 2012 and the narrowest silicon conducting wires. Her early recognition that silicon could host exceptionally precise and scalable qubits led her to found Silicon Quantum Computing (SQC) in 2017, aiming to commercialize quantum processors built from atomically engineered silicon. Her work has earned significant accolades, including Australian of the Year (2018) and the Prime Minister’s Prize for Science (2023). Simmons emphasizes that her practical skills in semiconductor fabrication and quantum measurement uniquely positioned her to develop quantum devices at the atomic scale. Simmons transitioned from academia to entrepreneurship because, after mastering atomic-scale manufacturing and achieving high-quality qubits, she saw that a company structure was essential to rapidly build a full-scale commercial quantum system. She highlights the transformative potential of quantum computing across industries, as quantum processors (QPUs) will solve complex
quantum-computingsilicon-technologyatomic-scale-electronicsfault-tolerant-quantum-computersemiconductor-fabricationmaterials-engineeringquantum-processorsUS superconducting breakthrough could power simple quantum computers
Researchers at the University of Buffalo, in collaboration with teams from Spain, France, and China, have achieved a significant breakthrough by constructing a Josephson junction using only one superconductor layer instead of the traditional two. Typically, a Josephson junction—a critical component in quantum computers—consists of two superconductors separated by a thin barrier, allowing synchronized superconductive behavior. In this new approach, the team used a superconducting vanadium electrode and an iron electrode separated by magnesium oxide, demonstrating that iron, a ferromagnetic material, could participate in Josephson-junction-like behavior despite its spins being aligned in one direction, unlike the opposite spins in superconductors. This unexpected finding challenges existing theories, as iron’s same-spin electron pairs exhibited superconducting properties, potentially enabling more stable quantum computing designs by locking electron spins in place. Moreover, the use of common materials like iron and magnesium oxide—already prevalent in hard drives and RAM—could simplify and reduce the cost of quantum device fabrication. The researchers
quantum-computingsuperconductivityJosephson-junctionmaterials-scienceenergy-efficiencymagnetic-materialsquantum-technologyThe Top Engineering Stories of 2025
The year 2025 was marked by significant advancements and transformative events in engineering and technology. Key highlights included the implementation of tariffs by former President Trump on Chinese GPUs, which influenced global tech policy and supply chains. Technological breakthroughs spanned a wide range of fields, from humanoid robots like Tesla’s Optimus learning to run, to major progress in quantum computing, fusion energy, and space propulsion systems. These developments pushed the boundaries of what is physically and technologically possible. Additionally, 2025 saw record-setting advances in AI hardware and meaningful strides toward cleaner energy solutions and faster space travel. The convergence of these innovations demonstrated how engineering continued to reshape industries and global dynamics within a single year. Overall, 2025 stood out as a pivotal year that underscored the rapid pace of technological evolution and its impact on both Earth and space exploration.
robotsenergyAI-hardwarefusion-energyelectric-vehiclesquantum-computingspace-propulsionPrinceton's new qubit is much like Google's but works 1,000x better
Researchers at Princeton University have developed a new superconducting transmon qubit with a coherence time three times longer than previously reported in labs and 15 times better than those used by tech giants Google and IBM. Coherence time—the duration a qubit can reliably hold information—is a critical limitation in quantum computing, as qubit failure leads to errors and hampers complex calculations. The Princeton team, led by Nathalie de Leon and Andrew Houck, improved coherence by changing the qubit’s material composition, using the rare-earth element tantalum for its robustness and resistance to contamination during fabrication. Initially, the qubit was fabricated on a sapphire substrate, but due to energy loss issues, the team switched to a high-grade silicon substrate, commonly used in modern computing. Despite technical challenges, this change resulted in a transmon qubit with significantly enhanced coherence times. According to Houck, integrating this qubit into Google’s best quantum processor, Willow, could boost its performance by 1,000 times.
quantum-computingqubitsuperconducting-qubitmaterials-sciencetantalumsilicon-substratecoherence-timeQubits break long-held quantum limit by evolving in superposed time paths
Researchers from India and Poland have demonstrated that a fundamental quantum limit on temporal correlations, long thought unbreakable, can be surpassed using qubits evolving in superpositions of different time paths. Traditionally, the Leggett–Garg inequality tests whether an object behaves classically or quantum mechanically over time, with quantum systems known to violate this inequality only up to the temporal Tsirelson’s bound (TTB). The new study shows that by allowing a qubit to simultaneously follow two incompatible time evolutions—enabled by quantum superposition—this bound can be exceeded, revealing stronger-than-expected quantum correlations across time. The team implemented their experiment using three qubits in a molecule studied via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). One qubit acted as a controller in a superposition state, directing the target qubit to evolve along two different time paths simultaneously, while the third qubit read out temporal correlations. This setup led to violations of the Leggett–Garg inequality well beyond the TTB,
quantum-computingqubitsquantum-sensorsquantum-mechanicsquantum-technologysuperpositionnuclear-magnetic-resonanceGoogle opens access to powerful Willow quantum chip for UK scientists
Google has partnered with the UK’s National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) to provide UK researchers access to its most powerful quantum processor, the Willow chip. This initiative invites scientists to submit proposals for developing applications in fields such as material science, chemistry, medicine, and life sciences. The Willow chip, unveiled in December 2024, is notable for its advanced superconducting qubit technology and breakthrough error correction capabilities, enabling it to perform computations exponentially faster than classical supercomputers. For example, it completed a benchmark task in under five minutes that would take a top supercomputer an estimated 10 septillion years. The collaboration aims to accelerate real-world quantum applications by leveraging Willow’s unique ability to handle complex problems beyond classical computing reach. Selected UK researchers will work closely with Google Quantum AI and NQCC experts to design experiments using the processor. This partnership aligns with the UK government’s commitment to quantum technology, which includes a £670 million investment and an estimated £11 billion economic contribution by
quantum-computingquantum-processormaterials-scienceenergy-innovationsuperconducting-qubitserror-correctionUK-research-collaborationChip 100× smaller than a hair could help scale quantum computing
Researchers have developed an optical phase modulator chip nearly 100 times smaller than a human hair, which could be pivotal for scaling quantum computers to handle massive qubit counts. Unlike bulky, custom hardware traditionally used, this device is manufactured using standard CMOS semiconductor fabrication processes common in everyday electronics. The modulator operates via microwave-frequency vibrations oscillating billions of times per second, enabling precise control of laser light phase and efficient generation of new frequencies—capabilities essential for quantum computing architectures like trapped-ion and trapped-neutral-atom systems. Current frequency-shifting technologies are large, power-hungry, and impractical for scaling to the hundreds of thousands of optical channels future quantum machines will require. The new modulator addresses these issues by consuming about 80 times less microwave power than many commercial modulators, producing less heat and allowing many devices to be integrated side by side on a single chip. This breakthrough leverages CMOS fabrication’s scalability, potentially enabling mass production of thousands or millions of identical photonic devices. The
quantum-computingoptical-phase-modulatorsemiconductor-chipenergy-efficient-technologymicroelectronicsscalable-manufacturingphotonic-devicesWorld's first 10,000-qubit processor marks 100× quantum scaling leap
QuantWare has announced a groundbreaking advancement in quantum computing with the unveiling of the world’s first 10,000-qubit Quantum Processor Unit (QPU), named VIO-40K. This processor represents a 100-fold increase in qubit count compared to existing commercial quantum processors, which have largely been limited to around 100 qubits for nearly a decade. Unlike previous approaches that linked multiple smaller processors, QuantWare’s new architecture employs a 3D scaling method and chiplet-based design, enabling dense, single-chip quantum computing with improved reliability, performance, and efficiency. The system supports 40,000 input-output lines and high-fidelity chip-to-chip connections, delivering more compute power per dollar and watt than current networked multi-QPU platforms. QuantWare’s innovation is positioned as a new industry standard for scaling superconducting qubit-based quantum processors, with compatibility integrated into its Quantum Open Architecture ecosystem. The company has partnered with NVIDIA to incorporate NVQLink technology, which links quantum and
quantum-computingquantum-processorqubitschiplet-designquantum-hardwarequantum-scalingquantum-fabricationNew quantum device operates at room temperature for stable qubits
Stanford University researchers have developed a nanoscale quantum device that operates at room temperature, eliminating the need for the extreme cryogenic cooling required by current quantum computers. This breakthrough device uses engineered silicon nanostructures combined with a layer of molybdenum diselenide, a transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC), to stabilize qubits by entangling the spins of photons and electrons. The silicon chip creates “twisted light,” where photons spin in a corkscrew pattern, enabling strong coupling with electron spins—crucial for quantum communication and processing. The nanoscale patterns on the chip are about the size of visible light wavelengths, allowing precise control over these quantum interactions. This innovation addresses a major limitation in quantum technology: qubit decoherence caused by thermal noise at higher temperatures. By enabling stable qubits at room temperature, the device promises to make quantum systems smaller, more practical, and less costly, potentially expanding their use beyond specialized labs. The researchers envision applications in
quantum-computingmaterials-sciencesilicon-nanostructurestransition-metal-dichalcogenidesroom-temperature-quantum-devicesquantum-communicationnanoscale-materialsChinese team simulates quantum state that resists errors from start
A team led by Pan Jianwei at the University of Science and Technology of China has made a significant advance in quantum computing by creating a quantum block that resists errors from the outset. Using their programmable superconducting quantum processor, Zuchongzhi 2, they simulated higher-order topological phases—exotic states of matter whose quantum information is protected in small regions called “corner modes.” Unlike traditional error-correction methods that require many extra qubits, this approach leverages topology, a branch of mathematics focusing on global features, to produce quantum states inherently more robust against disturbances. The team specifically focused on non-equilibrium higher-order topological phases, which are dynamic and do not naturally occur in materials, making them difficult to observe or test. To achieve this, the researchers programmed a 6×6 grid of qubits on Zuchongzhi 2 to mimic a synthetic material exhibiting these topological behaviors. By applying controlled operations and tracking the qubits’ evolving dynamics rather than static properties,
quantum-computingsuperconducting-qubitstopological-materialsquantum-error-correctionprogrammable-quantum-processorquantum-simulationhigher-order-topological-phasesCheap fiber helps scientists link two quantum networks for first time
Researchers at Heriot-Watt University have demonstrated a pioneering quantum network prototype that merges two independent quantum networks into a single, reconfigurable system supporting eight users. This network can route, distribute, and teleport quantum entanglement on demand, marking a significant advancement in the development of scalable quantum communication systems. The team’s approach leverages a low-cost, commercially available optical fiber—costing under £100—using the natural chaotic scattering of light within the fiber to create a high-dimensional entanglement router. By programming the input light, the fiber acts as a multi-port device capable of dynamically switching entanglement distribution patterns and supporting multiplexing, allowing multiple users to share the same fiber simultaneously. A key highlight of the demonstration was multiplexed entanglement teleportation, where entanglement was swapped between four distant users across two channels simultaneously, showcasing unprecedented flexibility in quantum network routing. This breakthrough suggests a practical pathway toward linking smaller quantum processors into larger, networked quantum supercomputers, which
IoTquantum-networksoptical-fiberentanglementquantum-computingmultiplexingtelecommunicationsResearchers use symmetry to decode quantum noise behavior in next-gen processors
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) and Johns Hopkins University have made a significant advance in characterizing quantum noise, a major obstacle to reliable quantum computing. Quantum processors are highly sensitive to disturbances such as temperature shifts, vibrations, electrical fluctuations, and atomic-scale effects, which disrupt fragile quantum states and complicate computations. Existing noise models are often too simplistic, failing to capture noise that spreads across both time and space within processors, thereby hindering the development of fault-tolerant quantum error-correcting codes. To address this, the researchers employed symmetry—a mathematical property that simplifies complex structures—to better understand noise behavior. Using a technique called root space decomposition, they structured the quantum system into discrete states arranged like rungs on a ladder. By observing how noise causes transitions between these states, they can classify disturbances and apply targeted mitigation strategies. This novel framework offers a more precise characterization of noise, which is expected to enhance both hardware design and algorithm development for quantum computing. The study, published in
quantum-computingquantum-noisefault-tolerant-computingquantum-processorserror-correctionquantum-algorithmsquantum-hardwareNew superconductor shows quantum edge states tied to Majorana physics
Researchers at IFW Dresden and the Cluster of Excellence ct.qmat have discovered a novel form of superconductivity in the crystalline material PtBi₂, characterized by a unique six-fold electron pairing symmetry linked to the crystal’s inherent three-fold symmetry. This topological superconductivity differs fundamentally from previously known types, and notably, PtBi₂ is an intrinsic superconductor that does not require complex engineering or exotic conditions. The material naturally hosts Majorana particles—quasiparticles theorized to behave like “split electrons” and resistant to quantum noise—confined to its edges, which can be generated in controllable numbers by cutting or engineering step edges in the crystal. The researchers explain PtBi₂’s behavior through a four-step process: topological surface states localize electrons on the crystal’s outer layers; these surface electrons become superconducting at low temperatures while the interior remains metallic, creating a “superconductor sandwich”; the electron pairing on the surface exhibits an unprecedented six-fold symmetry with six directions where
materialssuperconductivityquantum-computingMajorana-particlestopological-materialsquantum-technologyqubitsTwo supercomputers featuring NVIDIA Blackwell land in Japan by 2026
Japan’s RIKEN research institute plans to enhance its scientific computing infrastructure with two new supercomputers powered by NVIDIA’s latest Blackwell-generation GPUs, expected to be operational by spring 2026. Together, these systems will house 2,140 NVIDIA GPUs and focus on advancing AI-driven research, high-performance computing, and quantum technology development. The first supercomputer, equipped with 1,600 GPUs on the GB200 NVL4 platform and connected via NVIDIA’s Quantum-X800 InfiniBand networking, will support AI-accelerated scientific workflows in life sciences, materials research, climate forecasting, manufacturing, and laboratory automation. This system aims to accelerate large-scale AI model training and simulations critical to these fields. The second machine, featuring 540 NVIDIA Blackwell GPUs with the same architecture and networking, is dedicated to quantum computing research. It will not function as a quantum computer but will accelerate the development of quantum algorithms, hybrid quantum-classical simulations, and software to improve quantum hardware usability. This
supercomputingAImaterials-sciencequantum-computingNVIDIA-Blackwellhigh-performance-computingscientific-researchNVIDIA GPUs enable large-scale quantum chip modeling on supercomputer
Researchers from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the University of California have achieved a breakthrough by simulating a next-generation quantum microchip in unprecedented detail using the Perlmutter supercomputer. This simulation leveraged over 7,000 NVIDIA GPUs to model the chip’s electromagnetic wave propagation and performance before fabrication, enabling the identification of potential issues early in the design process. The chip, developed collaboratively by UC Berkeley’s Quantum Nanoelectronics Laboratory and Berkeley Lab’s Advanced Quantum Testbed, was modeled using ARTEMIS, an exascale computing tool developed under the DOE’s Exascale Computing Project. The simulation discretized the chip—a multilayer structure measuring just 10 mm by 10 mm by 0.3 mm with micron-scale features—into 11 billion grid cells and ran over a million time steps in seven hours, allowing evaluation of multiple circuit configurations within a day. This level of physical modeling at such scale is unprecedented and required nearly the full capacity of the Perlmutter system. The researchers plan to
quantum-computingGPU-accelerationsupercomputingquantum-chipschip-simulationexascale-computingmicroelectronics-materialsUS scientists simulate advanced quantum chip using nearly 7,000 GPUs
A team of researchers from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the University of California, Berkeley, has successfully simulated a next-generation quantum microchip using nearly 7,200 NVIDIA GPUs on the Perlmutter supercomputer at the National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center. This full-scale physical simulation, conducted over 24 hours, represents a significant advancement in quantum hardware design by enabling scientists to predict chip performance, identify potential issues, and reduce errors before fabrication. The simulation utilized the exascale modeling tool ARTEMIS to capture detailed electromagnetic wave propagation and interactions within the chip, which measures just 10 millimeters square and 0.3 millimeters thick with micron-scale features. The simulation was unprecedented in scale and complexity, discretizing the chip into 11 billion grid cells and running over a million time steps in seven hours, allowing testing of multiple circuit configurations daily. Unlike typical simulations, this approach modeled the chip’s material composition, wiring, resonator geometry, and electromagnetic interactions in full-wave physical detail, including
quantum-computingquantum-chipGPU-simulationsupercomputingadvanced-materialsmicroelectronicsenergy-researchScientists make dark excitons 300,000x brighter for quantum tech
Scientists from City University of New York (CUNY) and the University of Texas at Austin have made a significant breakthrough by amplifying the light emission of dark excitons—normally invisible quantum light-matter states found in atomically thin semiconductors—by nearly 300,000 times. Using a nanoscale optical cavity composed of gold nanotubes and a single atomic layer of tungsten diselenide (WSe₂), the team made these elusive states not only visible but also controllable at the nanoscale. This advance holds promise for developing faster, smaller, and more energy-efficient quantum computing and photonic technologies due to dark excitons’ long lifetimes and low environmental interactions. Further, the researchers demonstrated precise tuning of dark excitons using electric and magnetic fields, enabling on-demand control of their emission without altering the semiconductor’s natural properties. This approach preserves the material’s integrity while achieving record-breaking light-matter coupling. The study also resolved a longstanding debate in nanophotonics by showing that
quantum-computingphotonicsdark-excitons2D-materialsenergy-efficient-technologynanoscale-controlquantum-informationScientists miniaturize quantum optics to boost next-gen processors
Germany has launched SmaraQ, a collaborative research initiative aimed at advancing scalable ion-trap quantum computers by integrating quantum optics directly onto chips. Led by QUDORA Technologies GmbH, AMO GmbH, and Fraunhofer IAF, the project replaces bulky optical setups with compact, chip-based photonic systems. This innovation centers on ultraviolet (UV) waveguides and photonic components made from aluminum nitride (AlN) and aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), enabling nanometer-scale precision in directing laser light to ion qubits. By eliminating large free-space optics, SmaraQ significantly reduces system size and enhances reliability, facilitating mass production through established semiconductor fabrication techniques. The collaboration leverages complementary expertise: QUDORA integrates photonics into its trapped-ion quantum computing platform and drives commercialization; Fraunhofer IAF develops high-quality epitaxial AlN wafers essential for photonic components; and AMO GmbH applies advanced nanofabrication and lithography to pattern
quantum-computingphotonic-integrationaluminum-nitrideion-trap-quantum-computersnanofabricationsemiconductor-fabricationquantum-processorsChicago scientists find new way to link quantum computers across US
Researchers at the University of Chicago have developed a breakthrough method to connect quantum computers over distances exceeding 1,200 miles, vastly surpassing the previous limit of a few kilometers. This advancement hinges on significantly extending the quantum coherence times of individual erbium atoms—from 0.1 milliseconds to over 10 milliseconds—enabling entangled atoms to maintain coherence long enough for long-distance quantum communication. The team demonstrated potential latency as low as 24 milliseconds, theoretically allowing quantum computers to link across distances up to 2,485 miles, such as between Chicago and Colombia. The key innovation lies in the fabrication technique: instead of the traditional Czochralski method, which melts and cools materials to form crystals, the researchers used molecular-beam epitaxy (MBE) to build rare-earth-doped crystals atom by atom. This bottom-up approach produced components with remarkably long-lived quantum coherence and high matrix crystallinity, enabling kilohertz-level optical linewidths and erbium qubit spin coherence times
quantum-computingquantum-networksquantum-coherencerare-earth-doped-crystalsmolecular-beam-epitaxyquantum-internetquantum-materialsWorld’s most accurate quantum computer breaks 98-qubit barrier
Quantinuum has unveiled Helios, its most advanced quantum computer to date, featuring 98 fully connected qubits and setting new industry records in accuracy and scalability. Helios nearly doubles the qubit count of its predecessor, H2, and achieves single-qubit gate fidelity of 99.9975% and two-qubit gate fidelity of 99.921%, the highest reported in commercial quantum systems. This performance enables Helios to complete complex quantum computations, such as Random Circuit Sampling benchmarks, with energy efficiency far surpassing classical supercomputers, requiring roughly the power of a single data center rack compared to the astronomical energy classical machines would need. The system introduces a novel ion-trap architecture using barium qubits and visible-light lasers, which reduce costs and improve reliability by enabling atomic-level error detection and correction. Its Quantum Charged Coupled Device (QCCD) layout allows parallel cooling, sorting, and computation, enhancing speed and accuracy. Helios also features a real-time control engine
quantum-computingquantum-computerion-trap-architecturequbitshigh-accuracyquantum-hardwarequantum-softwareUS' new superconducting qubit lasts 15x longer than industry-standard
Researchers at Princeton University have developed a new superconducting qubit that achieves a coherence time of over 1 millisecond, which is three times longer than the best previously reported in laboratory settings and nearly fifteen times longer than the industry standard. This advancement addresses a fundamental challenge in quantum computing: qubits losing information too quickly to perform useful calculations. The team validated their design by building a fully functioning quantum chip, demonstrating significant potential for improved error correction and scalability in industrial quantum systems. According to Andrew Houck, co-principal investigator and Princeton’s dean of engineering, integrating these qubits into existing processors like Google’s could enhance performance by up to 1,000 times, with benefits increasing exponentially as more qubits are added. The breakthrough was achieved through a two-pronged materials approach: using tantalum metal to preserve energy in the qubit circuits and replacing the traditional sapphire substrate with high-quality silicon, a standard in the computing industry. Overcoming technical challenges in growing tantalum directly on silicon unlocked the
quantum-computingsuperconducting-qubittantalumsilicon-substratecoherence-timequantum-processorsmaterials-scienceNVIDIA, Qualcomm join U.S., Indian VCs to help build India’s next deep tech startups
NVIDIA and Qualcomm Ventures have joined a coalition of U.S. and Indian investors to support India’s emerging deep tech startup ecosystem. This coalition, launched in September and led by Celesta Capital, includes major venture firms from both countries and has committed over $850 million in capital. The initiative aligns with India’s new ₹1 trillion (approximately $12 billion) Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) scheme, aimed at accelerating innovation in sectors like energy, quantum computing, robotics, space tech, biotech, and AI. The coalition plans to invest capital, provide mentorship, and offer network access to Indian deep-tech startups over the next five to ten years, while also collaborating with the Indian government on policy initiatives. India’s startup ecosystem, previously focused on SaaS and Western business models, is now shifting toward tackling complex, infrastructure-scale challenges such as satellite launches, electric transportation, and semiconductor design. Despite this growing focus, funding for deep tech remains limited due to longer development timelines and higher risks compared
robotenergymaterialsdeep-tech-startupssemiconductorquantum-computingAIPhysicists Create a Thermometer for Measuring ‘Quantumness’
Physicists have developed a novel method to detect quantum phenomena such as superposition and entanglement by observing "anomalous" heat flow, which appears to contradict the classical second law of thermodynamics. Traditionally, heat flows spontaneously from hotter to colder bodies, as stated by Clausius in 1850. However, at the quantum scale, heat can flow from colder to hotter systems due to quantum mechanical effects, without violating the fundamental thermodynamic principles. This quantum heat flow can be harnessed as a sensitive, non-destructive thermometer for measuring "quantumness" in physical systems. The technique involves coupling a quantum system to an information-storing system and a heat sink capable of absorbing energy. By measuring the temperature increase of the heat sink, researchers can infer the presence of quantum superposition or entanglement in the system. This approach not only provides a practical tool for verifying quantum resources in quantum computing but also deepens the understanding of the interplay between thermodynamics and information theory.
energyquantum-physicsthermodynamicsheat-flowquantum-entanglementquantum-computingquantum-measurementUS team finds problems that even quantum computers can't crack
Researchers at Caltech, led by Thomas Schuster, have identified intrinsic limits in quantum computing’s ability to efficiently solve certain complex problems, specifically in determining the phases of matter from unknown quantum states. While quantum computers leverage qubits to process vast possibilities simultaneously, some quantum phase recognition tasks remain beyond their reach. The study highlights that as the correlation length (ξ)—which measures how far quantum system properties influence each other—increases, the computational time required to identify phases grows exponentially. When ξ grows faster than the logarithm of the system size, the problem becomes super-polynomially hard, making it practically unsolvable within reasonable timeframes, even by quantum machines. This finding underscores fundamental constraints in probing and understanding complex quantum phases, such as topological order and symmetry-protected topological phases, which are crucial for both theoretical physics and advancing quantum technologies. The researchers also point out that certain quantum states have well-defined phases that no efficient quantum experiment can reliably identify, revealing inherent limits in measurement and observation.
quantum-computingquantum-phasesquantum-materialstopological-orderquantum-technologycomputational-limitsquantum-statesGermanium flips to superconducting state for the first time ever
Scientists have achieved superconductivity in germanium for the first time, marking a significant breakthrough with potential implications for quantum computing and energy-efficient electronics. A collaborative team from New York University, the University of Queensland, and other institutions succeeded in making germanium conduct electricity without resistance at 3.5 Kelvin (-453°F). This was accomplished by precisely doping germanium with gallium using molecular beam epitaxy, a technique that allows ultra-thin crystal layers to be grown with high atomic precision. This method maintained the crystal’s stability despite the high gallium concentration, enabling the superconducting state. Germanium, a widely used semiconductor in computer chips and fiber optics, has long been sought after for superconductivity due to its ideal electrical properties and stable diamond-like crystal structure. Achieving superconductivity in germanium opens new possibilities for scalable, foundry-ready quantum devices and could revolutionize technologies requiring seamless integration between semiconducting and superconducting materials, such as quantum circuits, sensors, and cryogenic electronics. The
materialssuperconductivitygermaniumsemiconductorsquantum-computingenergy-efficient-electronicsmolecular-beam-epitaxyUS signs collaboration agreements with Japan and South Korea for AI, chips and biotech
The United States has signed collaboration agreements with Japan and South Korea aimed at strengthening cooperation in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, space, and 6G. These agreements seek to enhance strategic ties, align regulations, and support both economic and national security objectives. Japan’s expertise in advanced materials, robotics, and space technologies, combined with South Korea’s dominance in memory chip production, positions these partnerships as critical to maintaining a competitive edge in the global technology race. Specifically, the U.S.-Japan deal focuses on boosting AI exports, protecting technology, and fostering collaboration on AI standards and innovation, promoting a joint AI ecosystem across hardware, software, and related standards. The U.S.-South Korea agreement aims to reduce operational burdens for tech companies by addressing data localization and hosting challenges, while also coordinating AI export controls and standards innovation. A broader goal of these agreements is to reduce dependence on China’s technology supply chain and influence the global regulatory framework for emerging
roboticssemiconductorsAI-technologyadvanced-materialsquantum-computingtechnology-collaborationchip-productionElectrons can now be controlled to build smarter quantum devices
Auburn University scientists have developed a novel class of materials called Surface Immobilized Electrides, which enable precise control over free electrons within matter. Unlike typical materials where electrons remain bound to atoms, these electrides allow electrons to move freely through stable surfaces such as diamond and silicon carbide. By manipulating the molecular arrangement, electrons can form isolated “islands” functioning as quantum bits or spread into metallic “seas” that enhance chemical reactions. This breakthrough offers a versatile platform with potential applications in quantum computing, catalysis, and advanced manufacturing. The innovation addresses previous challenges with electrides, which were unstable and difficult to reproduce, by depositing the materials directly onto solid surfaces to improve stability and scalability. This advancement could lead to commercial uses in electronics, sensors, and catalysts, bridging fundamental science and practical technology. The interdisciplinary research team highlights that controlling free electrons opens new avenues for faster computers, smarter machines, and more efficient industrial processes, marking a significant step toward future quantum technologies and clean manufacturing solutions. The
materialsquantum-computingelectrideselectron-controladvanced-catalystschemical-manufacturingenergy-transferAs China’s 996 culture spreads, South Korea’s tech sector grapples with 52-hour limit
The article discusses the tension between South Korea’s legally mandated 52-hour workweek limit and the demanding work culture spreading from China’s “996” system (9 am to 9 pm, six days a week) within the global deep tech sector. While South Korea enforces a 40-hour standard workweek with strict overtime regulations and penalties for violations, it has introduced special extended work programs allowing up to 64 hours weekly with worker consent and government approval, particularly for deep tech industries like semiconductors. However, these exemptions are limited and expected to be scaled back, reflecting the government’s intent to tighten working-hour regulations despite some political debate. Tech investors and founders in South Korea express concerns that the 52-hour limit poses challenges for innovation-driven sectors requiring intense focus and long hours during critical phases. Yongkwan Lee, CEO of a venture capital firm, notes that strict work-hour caps could slow progress toward key milestones in highly competitive fields such as AI and quantum computing. Surveys indicate many startup
semiconductorsdeep-techwork-cultureSouth-KoreaAIquantum-computinglabor-regulations13,000x faster: Google’s chip delivers first verifiable quantum edge
Google Quantum AI has announced a significant milestone with its 105-qubit Willow processor and a new algorithm called Quantum Echoes, achieving the first verifiable quantum advantage. Running on 65 qubits, the algorithm completed a task approximately 13,000 times faster than the best classical supercomputer, Frontier. Unlike previous demonstrations of quantum supremacy, which relied on random circuit sampling with limited practical use and unverifiable results, Quantum Echoes produces reproducible and verifiable outcomes across different quantum systems. This breakthrough addresses a critical challenge in quantum computing by enabling confidence in the correctness of quantum data, which is essential for real-world applications. The Quantum Echoes algorithm operates in three stages: performing quantum operations simulating molecular behavior, perturbing one qubit slightly, and then reversing the operations to compare results. This process reveals how small changes propagate through a molecular system, a task that classical supercomputers struggle to handle. The success of this experiment is attributed to Willow’s large qubit count and exceptionally low error
quantum-computingGoogle-Quantum-AIquantum-algorithmmaterials-scienceenergy-storagepolymerscatalystsNew twist on classic material could advance quantum computing
Researchers at Penn State University have developed a novel approach to enhance the electro-optic properties of barium titanate, a classic material known since 1941 for its strong ability to convert electrical signals into optical signals. By reshaping barium titanate into ultrathin strained thin films, the team achieved over a tenfold improvement in the conversion efficiency of electrons to photons at room temperature compared to previous results at cryogenic temperatures. This breakthrough addresses a long-standing challenge, as barium titanate had not been widely commercialized due to fabrication difficulties and stability issues, with lithium niobate dominating the electro-optic device market instead. The improved material has significant implications for quantum computing and data center energy efficiency. Quantum technologies often require cryogenic conditions, but transmitting quantum information over long distances needs room-temperature optical links, which this advancement could enable. Additionally, data centers, which consume vast amounts of energy primarily for cooling, could benefit from integrated photonic technologies that use photons rather than electrons to transmit data
materialselectro-optic-materialsbarium-titanatequantum-computingenergy-efficiencydata-centersphotonicsWorld’s first linked time crystal could supercharge quantum computers
European researchers at Aalto University in Finland have, for the first time, successfully connected a time crystal to an external system, marking a significant breakthrough in quantum technology. Time crystals are a novel phase of matter proposed by Nobel Laureate Frank Wilczek, characterized by perpetual motion in their lowest energy state without energy input. Previously, time crystals had only been observed in isolated quantum systems, but the Aalto team demonstrated that a time crystal formed from magnons in a superfluid helium-3 environment can interact with a mechanical oscillator. This connection allowed them to adjust the time crystal’s properties, a feat not achieved before. The experiment involved pumping magnons—quasiparticles behaving like individual particles—into the superfluid cooled near absolute zero, creating a time crystal that maintained motion for up to 108 cycles (several minutes). As the time crystal’s motion faded, it coupled with a nearby mechanical oscillator, with changes in frequency analogous to known optomechanical phenomena used in gravitational wave detection.
quantum-computingtime-crystalquantum-sensorsoptomechanical-systemsultracold-physicsquantum-materialslow-temperature-physicsWorld’s first tunable nonlinear photonic chip targets quantum use
Researchers from NTT Research, Cornell University, and Stanford University have developed the world’s first programmable nonlinear photonic waveguide, a breakthrough device capable of switching between multiple optical functions on a single chip. This innovation challenges the traditional “one device, one function” limitation in photonics, where devices are fixed to a single task during fabrication. By using a silicon nitride core and projecting structured light patterns onto the chip, the device dynamically creates programmable regions of optical nonlinearity, enabling rapid reconfiguration of its optical functions. Demonstrated capabilities include arbitrary pulse shaping, tunable second-harmonic generation, holographic generation of spatio-spectrally structured light, and real-time inverse design of nonlinear-optical functions. The technology promises significant impacts across optical and quantum computing, communications, and tunable light sources by reducing costs, improving manufacturing yields, and enabling more compact, power-efficient optical systems. This flexibility is particularly valuable for quantum computing, where programmable quantum light sources and frequency converters can enhance
materialsphotonicsquantum-computingoptical-devicessilicon-nitridenonlinear-opticsprogrammable-chipUS team achieves 99% fidelity in quantum communication breakthrough
A research team at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has achieved a major breakthrough in quantum communication by generating entangled photons at a telecom-band wavelength of 1389 nm using an array of ytterbium-171 (¹⁷¹Yb) atoms. This development enables high-fidelity (up to 99%) entanglement directly compatible with existing fiber-optic infrastructure, overcoming previous challenges related to signal degradation and efficiency loss caused by wavelength conversion. The team’s approach allows for parallelized entanglement generation across multiple atoms projected onto a commercial fiber array, significantly enhancing the scalability and performance of quantum networks. This scalable quantum networking architecture supports simultaneous, uniform, and high-fidelity entanglement across interconnected nodes with minimal crosstalk, a critical requirement for reliable quantum communication. Additionally, the researchers introduced a mid-circuit networking protocol to maintain coherence of data qubits during network operations, ensuring data stability even when multiple connections are active. Their findings indicate that with minor technical improvements,
quantum-communicationquantum-networkingquantum-processorsentangled-photonstelecom-band-photonsfiber-optic-communicationquantum-computingNew qubits operate at telecom frequencies, expand quantum potential
Researchers from the University of Chicago, UC Berkeley, Argonne National Laboratory, and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed new molecular qubits that operate at telecommunications frequencies, marking a significant advance toward scalable quantum networks compatible with existing fiber-optic infrastructure. These qubits utilize erbium, a rare-earth element known for its clean optical properties and strong magnetic interactions, enabling them to bridge the gap between light (used for transmitting quantum information) and magnetism (fundamental to many quantum devices). This molecular platform allows quantum information to be encoded magnetically and accessed optically at wavelengths compatible with current telecommunications and silicon photonics technologies. Operating at telecom-band frequencies, these molecular qubits have potential applications beyond laboratory settings, including ultra-secure quantum communication, linking quantum computers over long distances, and nanoscale sensing in diverse environments such as biological systems or silicon-based chips. Their chemical flexibility and compatibility with existing optical infrastructure position them as promising building blocks for the future quantum internet. The research highlights the importance of synthetic molecular chemistry
quantum-computingquantum-internetmolecular-qubitstelecom-frequenciesoptical-fiber-networksquantum-communicationrare-earth-materialsIntegrated photonics can bring million-atom quantum trap to chips
Researchers at the University of California Santa Barbara have made significant advances in miniaturizing cold atom quantum experiments, traditionally confined to large, delicate laboratory setups, onto palm-sized photonic chips. By leveraging integrated photonics—technology that manipulates light on silicon nitride chips—they developed a 3D magneto-optical trap capable of cooling and trapping over a million rubidium atoms to ultra-cold temperatures (around 250 microkelvin). This breakthrough enables highly precise quantum measurements previously only possible in bulky optical tables, opening the door to portable quantum sensors for applications such as earthquake detection, sea level rise monitoring, gravitational experiments, and dark matter searches. A key challenge addressed by the team was the noise and instability of commercial lasers, which hinder quantum precision. In 2024, they engineered an ultra-low linewidth, self-injection-locked 780 nm laser integrated directly on the chip, significantly reducing noise and enhancing measurement sensitivity. This integration of lasers, mirrors, modulators, and stabilizers onto
quantum-computingintegrated-photonicsquantum-sensorssilicon-nitride-chipscold-atom-technologyminiaturized-quantum-devicesquantum-navigationLQMs vs. LLMs: when AI stops talking and starts calculating
The article discusses the emerging role of Large Quantitative Models (LQMs) as a new class of AI systems that differ fundamentally from Large Language Models (LLMs). Unlike LLMs, which are trained on internet text to generate language-based outputs, LQMs are purpose-built to work with numerical, scientific, and physical data, enabling them to simulate complex real-world systems in fields like chemistry, biology, and physics. Fernando Dominguez, Head of Strategic Partnerships at SandboxAQ—a company at the forefront of AI and quantum technology integration—explains that LQMs can generate novel data not available in existing datasets, such as simulating trillions of molecular interactions. This capability allows LQMs to accelerate drug discovery, financial modeling, and navigation, offering a more quantitative and practical approach to AI-driven innovation. A key example highlighted is SandboxAQ’s collaboration with UCSF’s Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, where LQMs enabled the simulation of over 5 million molecular compounds in
materialsAIquantum-computingdrug-discoverysimulationpharmaceuticalscybersecurityCat qubits stay stable for over an hour in quantum computing record
French quantum computing startup Alice & Bob has set a new record in qubit stability by demonstrating that their Galvanic Cat qubits can resist bit-flip errors for over an hour, a significant improvement from the previous record of 430 seconds (about seven minutes) achieved in 2024. Bit-flip errors are one of the main challenges in quantum computing, and extending the bit-flip lifetime to this extent marks a crucial step toward practical fault-tolerant quantum machines. The breakthrough was realized through a combination of software optimizations, experimental techniques, and advanced engineering on their latest qubit design, which also powers their 12-qubit Helium 2 chip. This advancement not only surpasses typical cosmic ray impact timescales, suggesting enhanced qubit robustness, but also enables more efficient error-correcting codes that could reduce the hardware requirements for large-scale quantum computers by up to 200 times. Alice & Bob reported bit-flip times between 33 and 60 minutes at a
materialsquantum-computingqubitscat-qubitsfault-tolerant-computingquantum-error-correctionsuperconducting-qubitsQuantum internet closer: New router transmits data with 99% fidelity
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a breakthrough photonic quantum router capable of transmitting quantum information with over 99% fidelity and extremely low signal loss (0.06 dB or about 1.3%). This device is compatible with existing telecommunication networks and operates at nanosecond speeds, addressing a major hurdle in building scalable quantum communication systems. The router employs a novel parallelogram-shaped interferometer design that preserves photon polarization while reducing the number of optical components, thereby minimizing signal loss and enhancing stability. In a pioneering demonstration, the router successfully directed entangled photon pairs while maintaining an interference visibility of approximately 97%, confirming its ability to handle complex quantum states crucial for applications like distributed quantum computing and secure quantum communication. This development marks a significant step toward realizing a practical quantum internet, which relies on transmitting quantum data encoded in photons without loss or corruption. The new router combines essential features—low loss, high speed, noise-free operation, and telecom compatibility—making it a foundational component for
IoTquantum-internetphotonic-routerquantum-communicationtelecommunication-networksquantum-computingsecure-communicationHelium-3 mining on Moon: A new frontier for science and geopolitics
The article discusses the emerging interest in mining helium-3 from the Moon, highlighting its scientific, technological, and geopolitical significance. Helium-3, a rare, non-radioactive isotope embedded in the lunar regolith by billions of years of solar wind, holds promise for multiple advanced applications. It is crucial for cooling quantum computers to near absolute zero, enhancing medical imaging and security scanners, and potentially serving as a clean fusion fuel that produces minimal radioactive waste. These diverse uses make helium-3 a highly strategic resource, sparking a competitive race among nations, notably the United States, China, and Russia, with the European Union, India, and others also entering the fray. The Moon’s helium-3 reserves are estimated to be vast—possibly around a million metric tons—though dispersed at very low concentrations, requiring processing of large amounts of lunar soil. Earth’s supply is limited and insufficient to meet the anticipated demand from scaling quantum technologies and other uses. While helium-3 fusion remains theoretical and
energymaterialslunar-mininghelium-3fusion-fuelquantum-computingspace-explorationFirst 3D-printed ion traps hit 98% fidelity in quantum operations
Scientists from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), in collaboration with UC Berkeley, UC Riverside, and UC Santa Barbara, have developed miniaturized quadrupole ion traps using high-resolution 3D printing, achieving quantum gate fidelities as high as 98%. These 3D-printed ion traps combine the stability advantages of traditional bulky 3D traps with the scalability of planar traps, overcoming a longstanding tradeoff in quantum computing hardware. The traps confine calcium ions at competitive frequencies and error rates, enabling stable ion manipulation, including two-ion position exchanges lasting minutes and high-fidelity two-qubit entangling gates. The use of ultrahigh-resolution two-photon polymerization printing allows rapid prototyping—printing full traps in about 14 hours or just electrodes in 30 minutes—significantly accelerating design iterations and enabling complex hybrid planar-3D geometries. This expanded design flexibility opens new avenues for optimizing and miniaturizing ion traps. The team plans to further
3D-printingion-trapsquantum-computingmaterials-engineeringminiaturizationquantum-informationadvanced-manufacturingScientists create quantum 'telephones' to connect long-distance atoms
Researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Australia have successfully created quantum entanglement between two distant phosphorus atoms embedded in silicon, marking a significant advancement in quantum computing. Using electrons as a bridge, they established entangled states between the nuclear spins of atoms separated by up to 20 nanometers. This breakthrough was demonstrated through a two-qubit controlled-Z logic operation, achieving a nuclear Bell state with a fidelity of approximately 76% and a concurrence of 0.67. The findings, published in the journal Science, suggest that nuclear spin-based quantum computers can be developed using existing silicon technology and manufacturing processes. The key innovation lies in using electrons—capable of “spreading out” in space—to mediate communication between atomic nuclei that were previously isolated like people in soundproof rooms. By enabling these nuclei to “talk” over a distance via electron exchange interactions, the researchers effectively created quantum “telephones” that allow long-distance entanglement. This method is robust
quantum-computingsilicon-microchipsquantum-entanglementsemiconductor-technologyspin-qubitsnuclear-spinquantum-communicationWorld-first quantum computer made with standard laptop chips launched
Quantum Motion, a UK-based startup, has launched the world’s first full-stack quantum computer built using standard silicon chip technology found in smartphones and laptops. Deployed at the UK National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC), this quantum computer is the first to utilize the complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) fabrication process, the same transistor technology used in conventional computers. A key innovation is the integration of cryoelectronics that connect qubits with control circuits operating at very low temperatures, enabling significant scalability of quantum processors. The system combines Quantum Motion’s Quantum Processing Unit (QPU) with a user interface and control stack compatible with industry-standard frameworks like Qiskit and Cirq, making it a comprehensive quantum computing solution. It features a compact, data center–friendly design occupying just three 19-inch server racks, with modular auxiliary equipment allowing easy integration and future upgrades without increasing the physical footprint. The QPU’s tile-based architecture supports expansion to millions of qubits per chip, aiming
materialsquantum-computingsilicon-chipsCMOS-technologyscalable-technologycryoelectronicsdata-center-integrationGoogle's quantum AI chip unlocks new exotic phase of matter
An international research team from the Technical University of Munich, Princeton University, and Google Quantum AI has experimentally observed a previously theorized exotic phase of matter—known as a Floquet topologically ordered state—using Google's 58-qubit quantum processor, Willow. This non-equilibrium quantum state arises in systems driven by time-periodic Hamiltonians, where the governing physical rules change in a predictable, cyclical manner. Unlike conventional phases of matter defined under equilibrium conditions, these out-of-equilibrium phases exhibit dynamic, time-evolving properties that traditional thermodynamics cannot describe. The team developed an interferometric algorithm to probe the topological structure of this state, enabling them to witness the dynamical transformation of exotic particles predicted by theory. This breakthrough demonstrates that quantum computers like Willow are not merely computational tools but also powerful experimental platforms for exploring complex quantum phenomena that are difficult or impossible to simulate classically. The discovery opens a new frontier in quantum simulation, transforming quantum processors into laboratories for investigating out-of-equilibrium quantum matter
quantum-computingexotic-matterquantum-AI-chipnon-equilibrium-quantum-statestopological-phasesGoogle-Quantum-AIquantum-materialsBreakthrough quantum algorithm solves a century-old math problem
Researchers have successfully employed a quantum algorithm to solve a century-old mathematical problem involving the factorization of group representations—a task previously deemed intractable for classical supercomputers. Conducted by Martín Larocca of Los Alamos National Laboratory and Vojtěch Havlíček of IBM, the study demonstrates that quantum computers can efficiently decompose complex symmetries into their fundamental building blocks, known as irreducible representations. This problem is analogous to prime factorization but applies to group theory, which is essential for describing system transformations in physics and material science. The breakthrough leverages quantum Fourier transforms, enabling computations that classical algorithms struggle with due to exponential complexity. This achievement exemplifies a clear quantum advantage, showcasing quantum computing’s potential to outperform classical methods on meaningful scientific problems. The ability to factor group representations efficiently has significant real-world applications, including calibrating particle detectors in physics, developing error-correcting codes in data transmission, and analyzing material properties for new material design. The research not only
quantum-computingquantum-algorithmsmaterials-sciencequantum-advantagecomputational-physicsquantum-Fourier-transformparticle-physicsUS scientists capture fleeting muons with new mobile detector
Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have developed a new mobile muon detector that significantly enhances imaging capabilities for dense, shielded materials such as spent nuclear fuel. Inspired by a neutron detector designed over a decade ago for the Spallation Neutron Source, this device uniquely captures both muon energy and scattering angles in real time, improving image quality beyond previous muon tomography systems that typically recorded only one parameter. The detector’s development involved interdisciplinary collaboration between ORNL’s Neutron Sciences and Fusion and Fission Energy and Sciences directorates and is set to be deployed for practical measurements later this year. Muons, fundamental particles that decay within microseconds, provide a non-destructive means to probe deep into matter, but their fleeting nature has made detection challenging. By adapting wavelength-shifting fiber technology from neutron detectors, the ORNL team overcame this limitation, enabling real-time capture of muon interactions. Beyond nuclear fuel monitoring, the detector is expected to
energynuclear-energymuon-detectorparticle-detectionquantum-computingnuclear-safetyOak-Ridge-National-LaboratoryNew algorithm solves quantum computer's speed-of-light problem
Researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute, MIT, NTNU, and Leiden University have developed a new algorithm called Frequency Binary Search that enables quantum computers to reduce noise in qubits in real time. Noise, or decoherence, is a major challenge for quantum computing because qubits are highly sensitive to tiny environmental changes, which cause errors and disrupt their coherent quantum states. Traditional noise mitigation methods involve extensive measurements and corrections that are often too slow, resulting in delayed noise cancellation and reduced accuracy. The Frequency Binary Search algorithm addresses this by estimating qubit frequency shifts instantly using a Quantum Machines controller equipped with a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), which processes data on the spot without sending it to a slower desktop computer. This real-time correction allows simultaneous calibration of many qubits with exponential precision using fewer than ten measurements, a significant improvement over the thousands typically required. By enabling immediate noise correction, this breakthrough brings quantum computers closer to reliable, large-scale operation, potentially unlocking their vast capabilities in fields like
quantum-computingqubitsnoise-reductiondecoherenceFPGAquantum-algorithmquantum-processorsEngineers transmit quantum data on everyday internet fiber cables
Engineers at the University of Pennsylvania have demonstrated that quantum signals can be transmitted over commercial fiber-optic internet cables alongside classical data using the same internet protocol (IP) that powers today’s web. Their innovation centers on a silicon “Q-chip” that pairs a measurable classical light signal with fragile quantum particles, allowing the classical signal to guide routing without disturbing the quantum information. This approach enables quantum and classical data to be packaged together and routed through existing internet infrastructure, achieving over 97% signal fidelity in tests conducted on Verizon’s live fiber network. The Q-chip’s design addresses a major challenge in scaling quantum networks: quantum particles collapse when measured, making traditional data routing methods unusable. By sending a classical “header” signal ahead of the quantum data, the system can perform routing and error correction without directly measuring the quantum states. The chip’s silicon-based fabrication allows for mass production and integration into current networks, though distance limitations remain since quantum signals cannot yet be amplified without loss. The researchers liken
IoTquantum-computingfiber-optic-communicationquantum-internetphotonicssilicon-chipnetwork-technologyAfter falling behind in generative AI, IBM and AMD look to quantum for an edge
IBM and AMD are collaborating to develop a commercially viable quantum computing architecture as a strategic move to regain competitiveness after lagging behind in the generative AI market. Their joint effort aims to create a scalable and open-source quantum system, making advanced quantum computing more accessible to researchers and developers. This initiative targets complex real-world applications such as drug and materials discovery, optimization, and logistics. By leveraging AMD’s AI-specialized chips and IBM’s expertise in quantum technology, the partnership seeks to position both companies as key infrastructure providers in the evolving tech landscape. IBM’s CEO, Arvind Krishna, emphasized the transformative potential of quantum computing to simulate the natural world and represent information in fundamentally new ways, highlighting the significance of this venture for future technological advancements.
materialsquantum-computingAI-chipsIBMAMDdrug-discoveryoptimizationStudy shows modular quantum systems work even with imperfect links
A recent study led by the University of California, Riverside, demonstrates through simulations that modular quantum computing systems can scale effectively even when the connections between individual quantum chips are imperfect and noisy. Traditionally, scaling quantum computers has been challenging due to fragile qubits and noisy inter-chip links, especially when chips operate in separate cryogenic environments. However, the research shows that as long as each chip maintains high fidelity, the inter-chip connections can tolerate noise levels up to ten times greater than those within a single chip without compromising the system’s ability to detect and correct errors. This finding suggests that building larger, fault-tolerant quantum computers may be achievable sooner than previously anticipated without waiting for perfect hardware. The study emphasizes that simply increasing the number of qubits is insufficient for practical quantum computing; fault tolerance is crucial. Logical qubits, which are the usable units in quantum programs, are formed by combining many physical qubits to enable error correction, often using techniques like the surface code. By simulating thousands of modular
quantum-computingfault-tolerancequantum-chipsquantum-systemserror-correctionscalable-quantum-computersquantum-hardwareQuantum breakthrough promises real-time humanoid robot control
Researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology, Waseda University, and Fujitsu have developed a quantum computing-based method to improve humanoid robot posture control by leveraging quantum entanglement. Their approach uses qubits to represent the position and orientation of robot joints, with entanglement mirroring the interconnected movement of real joints. By combining quantum circuits for forward kinematics with classical computing for inverse kinematics, the hybrid system reduces computational complexity, cutting errors by up to 43% and speeding up calculations compared to traditional methods. Tests on Fujitsu’s quantum simulator and a 64-qubit quantum computer confirmed these improvements, enabling realistic full-body movement calculations for robots with 17 joints that would otherwise require excessive computing power and time. This breakthrough is significant for the future of humanoid robots, especially those working closely with humans, as it enables smoother, more lifelike, and real-time motion control without oversimplifying joint models. The method is already compatible with current noisy intermediate-scale quantum (N
robotquantum-computinghumanoid-robotsinverse-kinematicsquantum-entanglementrobotics-controlquantum-simulationQuantum-centric computing is already solving high-value chemistry challenges
IBM and Japan’s RIKEN Center have achieved a significant milestone in quantum chemistry by simulating the energy states of a complex molecule using a 77-qubit quantum processor—the largest number of qubits applied to a real-world quantum chemistry problem to date. This breakthrough was accomplished through a hybrid quantum-classical computing approach, combining IBM’s Heron quantum processor with RIKEN’s Fugaku supercomputer. This collaboration demonstrated that quantum-centric supercomputing, where quantum processing units (QPUs) work alongside classical CPUs and GPUs, can solve challenging chemistry problems previously thought to require fully fault-tolerant quantum computers. Their findings were published in Science Advances, highlighting that this hybrid model is not merely transitional but may represent the most effective near-term use of quantum computing. The hybrid approach leverages the strengths of both quantum and classical computing: quantum processors handle complex calculations that scale exponentially, while classical systems excel at tasks like data entry, memory access, and rendering graphics. Experts emphasize that classical computing remains highly
quantum-computinghybrid-computingsupercomputersquantum-processorsmaterials-researchenergy-simulationchemistry-challengesWrinkled 2D sheets may unlock faster, more efficient devices
Researchers at Rice University have discovered that tiny wrinkles in two-dimensional (2D) materials, such as molybdenum ditelluride, can precisely control electron spin, a quantum property that could revolutionize computing. Unlike traditional devices that rely on electron charge, spintronics uses electron spin states ("up" or "down") to process information, potentially enabling faster, smaller, and more energy-efficient devices. A major challenge in spintronics has been the rapid decay of spin information due to electron scattering, but the Rice team found that bending 2D materials creates a unique spin texture called a persistent spin helix (PSH), which preserves spin states even amid collisions. This effect arises from the flexoelectric polarization generated by uneven strain when the 2D sheet is bent—stretching on one side and compressing on the other—creating internal electric fields that split spin-up and spin-down electrons into distinct bands. The curvature-induced interaction is strongest in highly curved regions like wrinkles or
materials2D-materialsspintronicsenergy-efficient-deviceselectron-spinquantum-computingflexoelectric-polarizationWorld’s Smallest Cat 🐱✨
The article highlights a groundbreaking scientific achievement where researchers have created the world’s smallest "cat," not a living feline but a single rubidium atom precisely arranged using lasers and artificial intelligence. This atomic-scale creation symbolizes the cutting-edge advancements in quantum technology, showcasing the ability to manipulate individual atoms with extraordinary accuracy. This feat is more than a novelty; it represents a significant step toward the future of quantum computing. By controlling atoms at such a fine level, scientists aim to develop quantum machines capable of processing information far beyond the capabilities of current computers. The work underscores the potential of combining laser technology and AI to push the boundaries of quantum mechanics and computing innovation.
materialsquantum-computingAIlasersatomic-manipulationquantum-technologyprecision-engineeringFirst protein-based quantum bit could change biological research
Researchers at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering have developed the first protein-based quantum bit (qubit) by converting a living cell protein—enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (EYFP)—into a functional qubit. Unlike traditional quantum sensors that require extremely cold, controlled environments, this protein qubit operates effectively within the warm, noisy environment of living cells. The team demonstrated that the protein qubit exhibits quantum behaviors such as spin coherence and optically detected magnetic resonance, and can be initialized, manipulated with microwaves, and read out using light inside living cells. This breakthrough challenges the long-held belief that quantum phenomena cannot survive in biological systems and opens new possibilities for biological research. Although the protein qubits are currently less sensitive than diamond-based quantum sensors, their ability to be genetically encoded directly into living cells offers a unique advantage. This capability could enable unprecedented observation of biological processes at the molecular level, such as protein folding and early disease stages, potentially leading to quantum-enabled nanoscale MRI
materialsquantum-computingprotein-qubitquantum-sensormolecular-engineeringbiological-researchquantum-technologySchrödinger’s cat video made with 2,024 atoms in quantum breakthrough
A team of physicists from the University of Science and Technology of China has created what is described as the "world’s smallest cat video," depicting Schrödinger’s cat thought experiment using just 2,024 rubidium atoms. This quantum-level visualization uses optical tweezers—focused laser beams—to precisely manipulate individual atoms within a 230-micron-wide array. Machine learning algorithms enable real-time calculations that direct the lasers to rearrange all atoms simultaneously in just 60 milliseconds, a significant improvement over previous methods that moved atoms one by one. The glowing atoms form images representing key moments of the Schrödinger’s cat paradox, illustrating the concept of superposition where a particle exists in multiple states simultaneously. This breakthrough addresses a major bottleneck in neutral-atom quantum computing by enabling rapid, defect-free assembly of large atom arrays with high accuracy—reported as 99.97% for single-qubit operations and 99.5% for two-qubit operations. The technique is highly scalable, maintaining
materialsquantum-computingmachine-learningoptical-tweezersrubidium-atomsAIquantum-technologyCaltech uses sound to store quantum data 30 times longer than qubits
Caltech researchers have developed a novel quantum memory technique that converts quantum electrical signals from superconducting qubits into acoustic vibrations using a chip-scale mechanical oscillator, akin to a microscopic tuning fork. This hybrid approach leverages phonons—quantized sound waves vibrating at gigahertz frequencies—to store quantum information. Because these mechanical vibrations lose energy more slowly and are less prone to interference than electrical signals, the system achieves quantum state lifetimes up to 30 times longer than conventional superconducting qubits. This advancement addresses a key limitation of superconducting qubits, which excel at processing quantum information but suffer from short coherence times that restrict data storage. The team fabricated a nanoscale mechanical oscillator integrated with a superconducting qubit on a chip, enabling the storage and retrieval of quantum states as mechanical vibrations at extremely low temperatures. The slower propagation of acoustic waves allows for compact device design and reduces energy loss by preventing radiation into free space. These properties suggest the potential for scalable quantum memory solutions by integrating many such oscillators
quantum-computingquantum-memorysuperconducting-qubitsacoustic-vibrationschip-scale-oscillatorquantum-data-storagescalable-quantum-technology10x increase in atom array size boosts China’s quantum leap
Chinese researchers led by physicist Pan Jianwei at the University of Science and Technology of China have achieved a major breakthrough in quantum computing by creating the largest atom array to date. Their system can arrange over 2,000 rubidium atoms—each acting as a qubit—into precise two- and three-dimensional patterns within 60 milliseconds using a high-speed spatial light modulator and laser beam shaping. This array size is reportedly 10 times larger than previous systems, marking a significant leap in scalability and computational efficiency for neutral atom quantum processors. The team also developed an artificial intelligence system that simultaneously shifts every atom in real time, achieving single-qubit operation accuracy of 99.97%, two-qubit accuracy of 99.5%, and qubit state detection accuracy of 99.92%. They introduced a theoretical framework to balance readout fidelity and atomic retention, proposing a quantum circuit iteration rate (qCIR) metric to evaluate system performance. Their findings suggest that qCIRs of up
quantum-computingatom-arraysquantum-processorsAI-in-quantum-systemsrubidium-atomshigh-speed-spatial-light-modulatorqubit-fidelityScientists measure quantum distance in a solid for the first time ever
Scientists have, for the first time, experimentally measured the full quantum metric tensor of electrons in a real solid crystal, using black phosphorus. Quantum distance, a theoretical concept describing how similar or different two quantum states are, had long eluded direct measurement in materials due to the difficulty of capturing the subtle quantum geometry of electrons. By employing angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) combined with synchrotron radiation at the Advanced Light Source, the researchers mapped the pseudospin texture of electrons in black phosphorus, enabling them to reconstruct the quantum distance and the full quantum metric tensor of Bloch electrons within the crystal. This breakthrough is significant because understanding quantum distances and the quantum metric tensor can illuminate anomalous quantum phenomena in solids, such as high-temperature superconductivity and resistance-free electrical conduction. Moreover, precise knowledge of quantum geometry is crucial for advancing quantum technologies, including the development of fault-tolerant quantum computers. While the current demonstration is limited to black phosphorus, the approach opens new avenues for exploring
materialsquantum-materialsblack-phosphorusquantum-distancesuperconductorsquantum-computingelectron-behaviorQuantum state unlocked in object at room temperature in world-first
Researchers from TU Wien and ETH Zurich have achieved a world-first by unlocking quantum states in glass nanoparticles at room temperature, bypassing the need for ultra-low temperatures typically required in quantum experiments. Their work focused on slightly elliptical nanoparticles smaller than a grain of sand, which were held in electromagnetic fields causing them to rotate around an equilibrium orientation. By using a system of lasers and mirrors capable of both supplying and extracting energy, the team was able to reduce the rotational energy of these particles, effectively bringing their motion close to the quantum ground state despite the particles being several hundred degrees hot. This breakthrough challenges the conventional understanding that quantum states can only be observed in systems cooled near absolute zero to isolate them from environmental disturbances. The researchers emphasized the importance of treating different degrees of freedom separately, which allowed them to manipulate the rotational movement independently and achieve quantum behavior at ambient temperatures. This advancement opens new avenues for studying quantum properties in larger objects and at practical temperatures, potentially accelerating developments in quantum sensing, computation, simulation, and crypt
materialsquantum-physicsnanoparticlesenergy-statesquantum-computingquantum-sensingroom-temperature-quantum-statesUS finds missing particle that makes quantum computing fully possible
Researchers at the University of Southern California (USC) have discovered a new class of particles called "neglectons," which could significantly advance universal quantum computing. Traditional quantum computers use qubits that are highly fragile and prone to errors, limiting their reliability. Topological quantum computing, which encodes information in the geometric properties of exotic particles called anyons, offers a promising error-resistant approach. However, the commonly studied Ising anyons only support a limited set of operations (Clifford gates) insufficient for universal quantum computing. USC mathematicians and physicists turned to a less-explored mathematical framework known as non-semisimple topological quantum field theories (TQFTs), which retain components previously discarded as "mathematical garbage" due to their zero quantum trace. These components revealed the neglectons, a new type of anyon that, when combined with Ising anyons, enable universal quantum computation through braiding alone. Notably, only one stationary neglecton is required
quantum-computingquantum-particlesanyonstopological-quantum-computingqubitserror-correctionquantum-informationGold coating breakthrough boosts quantum chip stability and scale
Researchers at the University of California, Riverside, led by physicist Peng Wei, have developed a breakthrough technique to enhance the stability and scalability of quantum chips by applying an ultra-thin gold coating to superconducting materials. Quantum computers rely on qubits, which are highly sensitive to environmental noise and microscopic material defects that disrupt their fragile quantum states. Wei’s team addressed this by depositing a uniform gold layer about ten atoms thick onto niobium, a common superconducting metal used in quantum processors. This gold layer smooths out surface imperfections that typically trap Cooper pairs—electron pairs responsible for superconductivity—thereby reducing noise and preserving qubit coherence without impairing the superconducting properties. The gold coating acts as a chemically inert, stable shield that prevents oxidation and environmental interference, striking a balance between thickness and superconductivity. This innovation is compatible with existing chip fabrication processes, making it attractive for commercial quantum computing development. The technique has garnered interest from leading institutions such as MIT, NIST, and SEEQC
materialsquantum-computingsuperconducting-materialsgold-coatingqubit-stabilityquantum-chipnanotechnologyPhotonic chip sets loss record, boosts quantum computing scale
Xanadu and HyperLight have jointly achieved a significant breakthrough in photonic chip technology, crucial for advancing scalable photonic quantum computers. By refining the fabrication process of thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) chips, they reduced waveguide loss to below 2 dB per meter and electro-optic switch loss to just 20 milli-decibels (mdB), setting new industry records for low-loss performance. Importantly, these chips were produced using high-volume semiconductor manufacturing processes, demonstrating readiness for commercial-scale deployment and marking a key milestone in Xanadu’s 2025 hardware roadmap. This advancement addresses a critical challenge in photonic quantum computing, where minimizing optical loss is essential to reduce errors and enable scaling. The low-loss waveguides and switches allow photons to be guided and rerouted with minimal signal degradation, supporting the development of large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers. Building on their previous collaboration in the Aurora project—the world’s first fiber-networked photonic quantum
materialsphotonic-chipsquantum-computinglithium-niobatesemiconductor-fabricationelectro-optic-switchesquantum-hardwareIn a first, transmon qubit achieves a coherence time of one millisecond
Researchers at Aalto University in Finland have achieved a breakthrough in quantum computing by extending the coherence time of a superconducting transmon qubit to over one millisecond, with a median coherence time of about 0.5 milliseconds. This marks a new world record, significantly surpassing the previous best echo coherence times of around 0.6 milliseconds. The team accomplished this by using ultra-clean superconducting films, precise electron-beam lithography, and meticulous fabrication of Josephson junctions, all performed in a highly controlled cleanroom environment. Cooling the chip to near absolute zero and employing specialized low-noise amplifiers further preserved the qubit’s fragile quantum state. This advancement is crucial because longer coherence times allow qubits to perform more quantum operations before errors occur, enhancing the reliability and practicality of quantum computers. While this milestone is promising for the development of quantum sensors, simulators, and computers, scaling the technology to many qubits on a single chip with similar coherence remains a significant challenge. To
materialsquantum-computingsuperconducting-qubitstransmon-qubitcoherence-timequantum-technologyquantum-sensorsA strange quantum battery concept reveals the second law of entanglement
Researchers have demonstrated for the first time that quantum entanglement—a fundamental and mysterious connection between particles—can be manipulated reversibly, akin to energy in classical thermodynamics. This breakthrough was achieved by introducing the concept of an "entanglement battery," a quantum system that stores and supplies entanglement during transformations without loss. By allowing entanglement to flow in and out of this battery, the researchers resolved a long-standing challenge in quantum information science: the inability to perfectly reverse entanglement transformations under the traditional framework of local operations and classical communication (LOCC), which typically degrade entanglement. The study shows that in the asymptotic limit of many identical entangled states, transformations between different entangled states can be performed reversibly with rates determined by the relative amounts of entanglement, analogous to thermodynamic cycles involving energy and entropy. This framework not only advances the fundamental understanding of entanglement but also has practical implications for quantum computing, secure communication, and quantum networks. Furthermore
energyquantum-batteryquantum-entanglementquantum-informationthermodynamicsquantum-computingquantum-networksHarvard's ultra-thin chip breakthrough sets new standard for quantum optics
Researchers at Harvard University, led by Professor Federico Capasso, have developed a groundbreaking ultra-thin optical device called a metasurface that can perform complex quantum operations previously requiring numerous bulky components. This single, flat chip replaces traditional setups involving lenses, mirrors, and beam splitters used to control and entangle photons—key particles for quantum computing and networking. By miniaturizing the entire optical system into a stable, robust metasurface, the team addresses a major scalability challenge in photon-based quantum information processing. A novel design process was crucial to this breakthrough, employing graph theory to map the complex interference pathways of multi-photon quantum states onto nanoscale patterns on the metasurface. This approach unifies the metasurface design with the quantum state generation, enabling precise and systematic construction of devices tailored for specific quantum tasks. The metasurface’s monolithic design reduces optical loss and environmental sensitivity, and its fabrication via semiconductor industry techniques promises cost-effective, reproducible production. Beyond quantum computing, this technology has potential applications in
quantum-computingmetasurfacephotonicsoptical-devicesquantum-opticsnanoscale-materialsquantum-information-processingMicrosoft to build world's most powerful quantum computer in Denmark
Microsoft, in collaboration with Denmark’s investment fund EIFO and the Novo Nordisk Foundation, is launching QuNorth, a project aimed at building the world’s most powerful commercial quantum computer, named Magne, in the Nordic region. With a €80 million ($93 million) investment, QuNorth seeks to address the Nordic countries' current lack of access to advanced Level 2 quantum systems, which are crucial for conducting reliable and complex quantum computations. Magne will feature 50 logical qubits supported by 1,200 physical qubits, making it one of the first Level 2 quantum computers globally. This full-stack quantum computer will integrate hardware, software, operating systems, and control electronics, with Atom Computing providing the hardware and Microsoft supplying Azure software tailored to Atom’s neutral atom technology. Construction of Magne is set to begin in late 2025, with completion expected by early 2027. QuNorth will establish a leadership team, including a CEO and research positions in partnership with Microsoft,
quantum-computingMicrosoftquantum-technologyNordic-regionLevel-2-quantum-systemsAtom-ComputingQuNorth-projectGerman scientists use light to trigger quantum effects in crystals
Researchers at the University of Konstanz in Germany have demonstrated a novel way to alter the properties of a material at room temperature using light, a phenomenon previously unpredicted by theory. By employing laser pulses on iron ore hematite crystals, the team was able to excite pairs of magnons—quasiparticles representing collective electron spin excitations—at their highest magnetic resonance frequencies. This excitation changed the magnetic properties of the material, effectively transforming its "magnetic DNA" and creating a temporary new material with distinct characteristics. Notably, this effect was driven by light rather than temperature, enabling room-temperature manipulation, which is uncommon in quantum experiments. This breakthrough is significant because magnons, which behave like waves, can be controlled by lasers to transmit and store information at terahertz frequencies, making them promising candidates for future quantum technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing. Unlike many modern quantum materials that rely on rare-earth elements or synthetic modifications, the use of abundant hematite crystals highlights the practical potential
materialsquantum-effectsmagnonslaser-pulsesmagnetic-propertiesquantum-computingartificial-intelligenceTurns out quantum secrets can’t be cracked by humans or AI alone
A team of physicists and machine learning (ML) experts collaborated to solve a longstanding puzzle in condensed matter physics involving frustrated magnets—materials whose magnetic components do not align conventionally and exhibit unusual behaviors. Specifically, they investigated what happens to a quantum spin liquid state in a type of magnet called a "breathing pyrochlore" when cooled near absolute zero. While the spin liquid state, characterized by constantly fluctuating magnetic moments, was known to exist, the researchers had been unable to determine its behavior at even lower temperatures. The breakthrough came through a novel AI-human collaboration. The ML algorithm, developed by experts at LMU Munich, was designed to classify magnetic orders and was particularly interpretable, requiring no prior training and working well with limited data. By feeding Monte Carlo simulation data of the cooling spin liquid into the algorithm, the team identified previously unnoticed patterns. They then reversed the simulations, effectively heating the magnetic state, which helped confirm the nature of the low-temperature phase. This iterative dialogue between
materialsquantum-materialsmachine-learningcondensed-matter-physicsquantum-magnetsspin-liquidsquantum-computingIndia eyes global quantum computer push — and QpiAI is its chosen vehicle
QpiAI, an Indian startup specializing in integrating AI with quantum computing for enterprise applications, has secured $32 million in a Series A funding round co-led by the Indian government under its $750 million National Quantum Mission and Avataar Ventures. Valued at $162 million post-money, this investment underscores India’s strategic push to become a global quantum computing leader. The National Quantum Mission, launched in 2023, targets the development of intermediate-scale quantum computers (50–1,000 qubits) and related quantum technologies such as satellite-based quantum communications and quantum materials over the next eight years. QpiAI, one of eight startups selected for government grants, has developed India’s first full-stack quantum computer, QpiAI-Indus, featuring 25 superconducting qubits, and integrates AI to enhance quantum chip design and error correction. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Bengaluru with subsidiaries in the U.S. and Finland, QpiAI focuses on real-world quantum applications in sectors like
quantum-computingAI-integrationquantum-materialssuperconducting-qubitsquantum-hardwarematerial-discoveryquantum-device-fabricationScientists probe whether gravity and space-time alter quantum world
A recent study by researchers from Stevens Institute of Technology, University of Illinois, and Harvard University explores how quantum networks can be used to investigate the effects of curved space-time on quantum theory, probing the intersection of Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity and quantum mechanics. Their work, published in PRX Quantum, introduces a protocol leveraging entangled W-states and quantum teleportation to distribute quantum effects across network nodes, enabling experimental tests of quantum theory under gravitational influences. This approach could provide new insights into whether gravity alters quantum mechanics, addressing a longstanding challenge in physics. The researchers highlight that while quantum mechanics effectively describes atomic and subatomic behavior, it remains unclear how or if gravity modifies these quantum effects, especially given the differences from classical physics at larger scales. Quantum networks, beyond their anticipated role in creating a global quantum internet and ultra-secure communications, offer a novel platform to experimentally study fundamental physics in curved space-time—something classical computing cannot achieve. This research opens pathways toward testing and potentially unifying quantum
quantum-networksquantum-mechanicsquantum-gravityquantum-internetquantum-entanglementquantum-computingquantum-technologyGermany creates first-ever hybrid alloy for next-gen quantum chips
Researchers in Germany have developed a groundbreaking hybrid semiconductor alloy composed of carbon, silicon, germanium, and tin (CSiGeSn), marking the first stable material of its kind. Created by teams at Forschungszentrum Jülich and the Leibniz Institute for Innovative Microelectronics, this new compound belongs to Group IV of the periodic table, ensuring full compatibility with existing CMOS chip manufacturing processes. The addition of carbon to the silicon-germanium-tin matrix enables unprecedented control over the band gap, a key factor influencing electronic and photonic properties, potentially allowing innovations such as room-temperature lasers and efficient thermoelectric devices. This advancement overcomes previous challenges in combining these four elements due to differences in atomic size and bonding behavior, achieved through an advanced chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technique. The resulting material maintains the delicate crystal lattice structure essential for chip fabrication and is visually indistinguishable from conventional wafers. The team successfully demonstrated the first light-emitting diode (LED) based on a quantum well
materialssemiconductorquantum-computingalloysiliconphotonicsmicroelectronicsBreakthrough silicon chip fuses photonics and quantum generators
Researchers from Boston University, UC Berkeley, and Northwestern University have developed the world’s first integrated electronic–photonic–quantum chip using standard 45-nanometer semiconductor technology. This breakthrough device combines twelve synchronized quantum light sources, known as “quantum light factories,” on a single chip, each generating correlated photon pairs essential for quantum computing, sensing, and secure communication. The chip integrates microring resonators, on-chip heaters, photodiodes, and embedded control logic to maintain real-time stabilization of the quantum light generation process, overcoming challenges posed by temperature fluctuations and manufacturing variations. The innovation lies in embedding a real-time feedback control system directly on the chip, enabling continuous correction of misalignments and drift, which is critical for scalable quantum systems. The team successfully adapted quantum photonics design to meet the stringent requirements of a commercial CMOS platform, originally developed for AI and supercomputing interconnects. This collaboration demonstrates that complex quantum photonic systems can be reliably built and stabilized within commercial semiconductor
quantum-computingphotonicssemiconductor-technologyquantum-light-sourcesintegrated-circuitsquantum-sensorschip-manufacturingStartups Weekly: Still running
The "Startups Weekly: Still running" article provides a comprehensive roundup of recent developments in the startup ecosystem, highlighting key funding rounds, strategic moves, and emerging trends. Notably, design company Figma is preparing for an IPO that could raise up to $1.5 billion, signaling strong investor interest. Meanwhile, startups like Cluely are gaining traction with aggressive marketing and growing revenues, and fintech entrepreneur Darragh Buckley has achieved a significant milestone with his new venture, Increase. The newsletter also touches on corporate challenges in adopting AI tools, with insights from Brex illustrating broader industry struggles. On the venture capital and funding front, several notable deals are underway: Revolut is seeking a new funding round, SpaceX is raising capital, and micromobility and climate-focused startups like Terra CO2 and Tulum Energy are making strides in sustainability. Genesis AI is advancing foundational models for robotics, while Israeli quantum startup Qedma secures investment from IBM, emphasizing collaborative progress in quantum
robotAIstartupsenergyhydrogen-technologyquantum-computingmaterialsPhysicists double qubit coherence, opening door to faster quantum computing
Researchers at Aalto University in Finland have achieved a breakthrough in quantum computing by doubling the coherence time of transmon qubits, reaching an echo coherence time of 1 millisecond—significantly surpassing the previous record of approximately 0.6 milliseconds. Coherence time measures how long a qubit can maintain its quantum state without errors caused by environmental noise, which is critical for performing complex quantum operations with high fidelity. Longer coherence times reduce the reliance on extensive quantum error correction, a major hurdle in scaling quantum computers to practical, fault-tolerant devices. The team fabricated high-quality transmon qubits using superconducting materials sourced from Finland’s national research institute, VTT, and utilized advanced cleanroom facilities at Aalto University. This advancement not only marks a significant scientific milestone but also strengthens Finland’s position as a global leader in quantum technology. Supported by initiatives like the Finnish Quantum Flagship and the Academy of Finland’s Centre of Excellence in Quantum Technology, the researchers anticipate that industrial and commercial
materialsquantum-computingqubitssuperconducting-materialscoherence-timequantum-technologyquantum-error-correctionScientists isolate lone spinon in breakthrough for quantum magnetism
Scientists have achieved a significant breakthrough in quantum magnetism by isolating a lone spinon, a quasiparticle previously thought to exist only in pairs. Spinons arise as quantum disturbances in low-dimensional magnetic systems, particularly one-dimensional spin chains, where flipping a single electron spin creates a ripple that behaves like a particle carrying spin ½. Historically, spinons were observed only in pairs, reinforcing the belief that they could not exist independently. However, a new theoretical study by physicists from the University of Warsaw and the University of British Columbia demonstrated that a single unpaired spin can move freely through a spin-½ Heisenberg chain, effectively acting as a solitary spinon. This theoretical finding gained experimental support from recent work led by C. Zhao, published in Nature Materials, which observed spin-½ excitations in nanographene-based antiferromagnetic chains consistent with lone spinon behavior. The ability to isolate and understand single spinons has profound implications for quantum science, as spinons are closely
quantum-magnetismspinonsquantum-materialsmagnetic-materialsquantum-computingnanographenequantum-entanglementFirst zero-temp symmetry break hits 80% fidelity in quantum test
An international team of researchers from China, Spain, Denmark, and Brazil has achieved a significant breakthrough by simulating spontaneous symmetry breaking (SSB) at absolute zero temperature using a superconducting quantum processor. This marks the first time SSB has been simulated at zero temperature with about 80% fidelity, representing a major milestone in condensed matter physics and demonstrating new quantum computing applications. SSB is a fundamental phenomenon in physics that explains the emergence of complex structures and conservation laws, but observing it at near absolute zero is challenging due to material immobility. Classical computers have struggled with such simulations, which are typically limited to temperatures above zero and require extensive processing time. The researchers leveraged quantum computing’s unique capabilities—entanglement and superposition—to overcome these limitations. Unlike classical computers that process computations sequentially, quantum processors handle multiple possibilities simultaneously, exponentially speeding up simulations. The experiment used a quantum circuit of seven superconducting qubits made from aluminum and niobium alloys, operating near one millikelvin
quantum-computingsuperconducting-qubitsquantum-simulationmaterials-sciencecondensed-matter-physicsquantum-processorslow-temperature-physicsIsraeli quantum startup Qedma just raised $26 million, with IBM joining in
Israeli quantum computing startup Qedma has raised $26 million in a Series A funding round led by Israeli VC firm Glilot+, with participation from existing investors like TPY Capital, new investors including Korean Investment Partners, and notably IBM. Qedma specializes in quantum error mitigation software, particularly its flagship product QESEM (quantum error suppression and error mitigation), which analyzes and reduces noise-induced errors in quantum computations both during execution and in post-processing. This approach enables more accurate quantum circuit runs on current hardware without waiting for full error correction advancements at the hardware level. IBM’s involvement reflects its strategy to foster a collaborative quantum ecosystem by partnering with companies focused on software layers, complementing its own hardware and software development efforts. IBM’s VP of Quantum, Jay Gambetta, emphasized the importance of community efforts to achieve scientifically accepted definitions of “quantum advantage”—the point where quantum computers demonstrably outperform classical ones. Qedma’s CEO, Asif Sinay, expressed optimism that the company could
quantum-computingerror-correctionquantum-softwareIBMquantum-advantagequantum-hardwarematerials-scienceQuantum ‘translator’: A tiny silicon chip links microwaves and light like never before
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a tiny silicon chip that acts as a highly efficient quantum "translator," converting signals between microwaves (used in quantum computing) and light (used in communication) with up to 95% efficiency and almost zero noise. This conversion is crucial because microwaves, while integral to quantum computers, cannot travel long distances effectively, whereas optical photons can. The chip achieves this by incorporating tiny magnetic defects in silicon that trap electrons; these electrons flip states to mediate the conversion without absorbing energy, preserving the fragile quantum information and entanglement necessary for quantum communication. This innovation addresses a major challenge in creating a quantum internet, enabling quantum computers to remain entangled over long distances, potentially across cities or continents. Unlike previous devices, the UBC chip works bidirectionally, adds minimal noise, and operates with extremely low power consumption using superconducting materials. While still theoretical and requiring physical realization, this design represents a significant advance toward secure, ultra-fast quantum networks that
quantum-computingsilicon-chipquantum-communicationmicrowave-to-optical-conversionquantum-internetquantum-materialsphotonicsCryo chip runs qubits at -273°C using just 10 microwatts of power
Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed a cryogenic control chip capable of operating directly alongside quantum bits (qubits) at near absolute zero temperatures (milli-kelvin range) while consuming just 10 microwatts of power. This chip, designed using standard CMOS technology, controls spin qubits—data stored in the magnetic orientation of single electrons—and maintains qubit coherence and fidelity without measurable degradation compared to conventional room-temperature setups. The chip’s low power consumption and minimal noise interference enable scalable quantum computing systems potentially reaching millions of qubits without significant energy increases. Led by Professor David Reilly, the team demonstrated that their cryogenic chip causes negligible fidelity loss in single- and two-qubit operations and does not reduce coherence times, overcoming a major hurdle in building large-scale quantum computers. The research is driving commercial interest, with Emergence Quantum, co-founded by Reilly and Dr. Thomas Ohki, aiming to bring this technology to market. This advance supports efforts to integrate silicon qubits with
energyquantum-computingcryogenic-technologylow-power-electronicssilicon-chipqubitsquantum-controlUltra-efficient amplifier slashes quantum computer's power use by 90%
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a novel amplifier for quantum computers that reduces power consumption by 90% compared to existing models. This breakthrough addresses a critical challenge in quantum computing—decoherence, which occurs when heat and electromagnetic interference from amplifiers disrupt qubit states during measurement. The new amplifier activates only when needed, significantly cutting heat generation and thus minimizing errors in qubit readout. This advancement could enable the construction of larger, more stable quantum computers with increased numbers of qubits and improved computational performance. The key innovation lies in the amplifier’s pulse-operated functionality, which allows it to switch on briefly and precisely to read qubit signals without continuous power use. The team overcame the challenge of rapid activation by implementing a smart control system using genetic programming, enabling the amplifier to respond within 35 nanoseconds. This highly sensitive, low-noise semiconductor amplifier represents the most efficient transistor-based design currently achievable and is expected to help overcome a major technical bottleneck in scaling quantum computers.
energyquantum-computingamplifier-technologypower-efficiencydecoherence-reductionmicrowave-electronicssemiconductor-amplifiersJapan connects quantum and classical in historic supercomputing first
Japan has unveiled the world’s most advanced quantum–classical hybrid computing system by integrating IBM’s latest 156-qubit Heron quantum processor with its flagship Fugaku supercomputer. This historic installation, located in Kobe and operated by Japan’s national research lab RIKEN, represents the first IBM Quantum System Two deployed outside the U.S. The Heron processor offers a tenfold improvement in quality and speed over its predecessor, enabling it to run quantum circuits beyond the reach of classical brute-force simulations. This fusion of quantum and classical computing marks a significant step toward “quantum-centric supercomputing,” where the complementary strengths of both paradigms are harnessed to solve complex problems. The direct, low-latency connection between Heron and Fugaku allows for instruction-level coordination, facilitating the development of practical quantum-classical hybrid algorithms. Researchers at RIKEN plan to apply this system primarily to challenges in chemistry and materials science, aiming to pioneer high-performance computing workflows that benefit both scientific research and industry
quantum-computingsupercomputinghybrid-computingmaterials-sciencehigh-performance-computingIBM-QuantumRIKENWorld’s first quantum satellite computer launched in historic SpaceX rideshare
The world’s first quantum satellite computer was launched into orbit on June 23, 2025, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket as part of the Transporter 14 rideshare mission. Developed by an international team led by Philip Walther at the University of Vienna, this compact photonic quantum processor is designed to operate approximately 550 kilometers above Earth. The satellite aims to test the durability and performance of quantum hardware in the harsh conditions of space, including extreme temperature fluctuations, radiation, and vibrations. The device was assembled rapidly in a clean room at the German Aerospace Center, marking a significant engineering achievement. This quantum computer’s primary advantage lies in its ability to perform edge computing in orbit, processing data onboard rather than transmitting raw data back to Earth. This capability can enhance applications such as forest fire detection by reducing energy consumption and improving response times. Utilizing light-based optical systems, the processor efficiently handles complex computational tasks like Fourier transforms and convolutions. The system is adaptable for future missions and holds
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Researchers at MIT’s Plasma Science and Fusion Center have developed a superconducting diode (SD)-based rectifier chip that converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) at cryogenic temperatures, aiming to streamline power delivery in superconducting classical and quantum computers. This innovation addresses a critical challenge in quantum computing: reducing thermal and electromagnetic noise caused by numerous wires connecting ultra-cold components to ambient temperature systems. By integrating four superconducting diodes on a single chip, the team achieved efficient AC to DC conversion, potentially enhancing qubit stability and reducing interference, which is vital for the practical realization of quantum computers. Beyond quantum computing, the superconducting diode technology has broader applications, including serving as isolators or circulators to protect qubit signals and playing a role in dark matter detection circuits used in experiments at CERN and Berkeley National Laboratory. This advancement promises to make superconducting electronics more energy-efficient and practical, potentially revolutionizing computing power in the era of increasing demands from technologies like artificial intelligence. The
energysuperconducting-electronicsquantum-computingsuperconducting-diodepower-efficiencycryogenic-technologyMIT-researchNew approach allows to insert, monitor quantum defects in real time
Researchers from the UK’s universities of Oxford, Cambridge, and Manchester have developed a novel two-step fabrication method that enables the precise insertion and real-time monitoring of quantum defects—specifically Group IV centers such as tin-vacancy centers—in synthetic diamonds. These quantum defects, created by implanting single tin atoms into diamond with nanometer accuracy using a focused ion beam, serve as spin-photon interfaces essential for storing and transmitting quantum information. The process is activated and controlled via ultrafast laser annealing, which excites the defect centers without damaging the diamond and provides spectral feedback for in-situ monitoring and control during fabrication. This breakthrough addresses a major challenge in reliably producing Group IV quantum defects, which are prized for their high symmetry and favorable optical and spin properties. The ability to monitor defect activation in real time allows researchers to efficiently and precisely create quantum emitters, paving the way for scalable quantum networks that could enable ultrafast, secure quantum computing and sensing technologies. The method’s versatility also suggests
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IBM plans to launch the world’s first large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer, named Quantum Starling, by 2029. This system will feature 200 logical qubits capable of performing over 100 million quantum operations, representing a 20,000-fold increase in operational capacity compared to current quantum computers. Starling will be developed at a new IBM Quantum Data Center in Poughkeepsie, New York, and will serve as the foundation for a more advanced system, Quantum Blue Jay, which aims to have 2,000 logical qubits and execute one billion operations. The development of fault-tolerant quantum computers hinges on creating logical qubits from clusters of physical qubits to detect and correct errors, enabling large-scale quantum computations without faults. IBM is advancing this goal through innovations such as quantum low-density parity check (qLDPC) codes, which significantly reduce the number of physical qubits needed for error correction by about 90% compared to other methods. IBM’s roadmap also includes intermediate milestones like the Quantum Loon processor (testing qLDPC components in 2025), Quantum Kookaburra (a modular processor integrating quantum memory and logic in 2026), and Quantum Cockatoo (linking Kookaburra modules into a networked system by 2027). These efforts aim to unlock practical, scalable quantum computing with applications in drug discovery, materials science, and chemistry.
quantum-computingIBMfault-tolerant-quantum-computerlogical-qubitsquantum-operationsmaterials-researchenergy-efficient-computingTiny quantum processor outshines classical AI in accuracy, energy use
Researchers led by the University of Vienna have demonstrated that a small-scale photonic quantum processor can outperform classical AI algorithms in machine learning classification tasks, marking a rare real-world example of quantum advantage with current hardware. Using a quantum photonic circuit developed at Italy’s Politecnico di Milano and a machine learning algorithm from UK-based Quantinuum, the team showed that the quantum system made fewer errors than classical counterparts. This experiment is one of the first to demonstrate practical quantum enhancement beyond simulations, highlighting specific scenarios where quantum computing provides tangible benefits. In addition to improved accuracy, the photonic quantum processor exhibited significantly lower energy consumption compared to traditional hardware, leveraging light-based information processing. This energy efficiency is particularly important as AI’s growing computational demands raise sustainability concerns. The findings suggest that even today’s limited quantum devices can enhance machine learning performance and energy efficiency, potentially guiding a future where quantum and classical AI technologies coexist symbiotically to push technological boundaries and promote greener, faster, and smarter AI solutions.
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materialslaser-technologyquantum-computingrare-earth-elementsoptical-materialsfiber-opticsenvironmental-monitoringRare graphite flakes behave as both superconductor and magnet at 300 K
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