Quantum News Briefs: January 8, 2023:
China’s 3rd-gen superconducting quantum computer goes into operation
Origin Wukong, China’s latest third-generation superconducting quantum computer, was launched on Saturday, January 6th, by Origin Quantum Computing Technology in Anhui Province. This advanced quantum computer is equipped with the Wukong chip, featuring 72 computational qubits and 126 coupler qubits, totaling 198 qubits. This indigenous technology marks a significant step in China’s quantum computing capabilities, offering unprecedented programmability and delivery potential. The integration of a third-generation quantum computing control system, as noted by Kong Weicheng, Deputy Director of the Anhui Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center, significantly boosts the computer’s operational efficiency. The Wukong chip’s name is inspired by the mythical Chinese figure Sun Wukong, known for transforming into 72 forms, reflecting the computer’s versatile and powerful performance.
Taiwan eyes 2027 for first local quantum computer
Taiwan is on track to develop its first homegrown quantum computer by 2027 as part of a five-year NT$8 billion initiative started in 2022 under the guidance of the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC). In collaboration with various research organizations, this ambitious plan aims to establish Taiwan’s presence in the burgeoning field of quantum computing, which promises unparalleled computational power. Despite challenges like high error rates and the need for further research and development, estimated to take another six years, the project is vital for Taiwan to maintain its competitive edge in critical technologies. The initiative also includes collaborations with international companies and local development of quantum chipsets as Taiwan joins the global race to harness the potential of quantum computing.
In Other News: Big Think “Starts With A Bang podcast #101 – Quantum Computing”
The latest episode of the “Starts With A Bang” podcast hosted by Big Think, usually focused on astrophysics, diverged to explore the complex and often misunderstood world of quantum computing. The episode featured Dr. Riccardo Manenti, a renowned expert with a PhD from Oxford in Quantum Computing and experience at the Rigetti quantum computing startup. Manenti, author of a leading textbook on quantum computers, aimed to demystify the hype surrounding quantum computing. Unlike classical computers that operate on binary “0” and “1” states, quantum computers utilize superpositions of these states, allowing for new states and operations. This episode addressed common misconceptions, such as the belief that quantum computers will replace classical computers, emphasizing the real scientific progress and challenges in this emerging field.
Kenna Hughes-Castleberry is the Managing Editor at Inside Quantum Technology and the Science Communicator at JILA (a partnership between the University of Colorado Boulder and NIST). Her writing beats include deep tech, quantum computing, and AI. Her work has been featured in Scientific American, Discover Magazine, New Scientist, Ars Technica, and more.