Quantum News Briefs: November 16, 2023: Multiverse Computing Launches CompatifAI; USRA, Rigetti Computing, and NASA Ames Research look at Quantum Algorithms, NYU Tandon has new Minor in Quantum Computing
Quantum News Briefs: November 16, 2023:
Multiverse Computing Launches CompactifAI to Streamline LLMs to Reduce Energy Use and Compute Costs
Multiverse Computing, a quantum computing leader, announced CompactifAI on November 15, 2023, in San Sebastián, Spain. This innovative software aims to significantly reduce the computational costs and energy requirements of training and operating large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Bard. CompactifAI minimizes the size, memory, and storage needs of these models by utilizing tensor networks, enhancing their efficiency and portability. This development comes amid growing concerns over the substantial energy consumption of LLMs, with predictions suggesting AI could match the annual energy use of entire countries by 2027. CompactifAI’s launch is a crucial step in addressing these challenges, making LLMs more accessible for various applications, including edge computing, and reducing their impact on the electric grid.
Collaboration between USRA, Rigetti Computing, and NASA Ames Research Center Pave the Way to Next Generation Quantum Optimization Algorithms
A collaborative effort by scientists from the Universities Space Research Association (USRA), Rigetti Computing, and NASA Ames Research Center under the DARPA Optimization with Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum (ONISQ) program has marked a significant advancement in quantum computing for combinatorial optimization. The team developed an innovative quantum algorithm that effectively operates amidst substantial hardware noise, surpassing traditional classical approaches. Utilizing Rigetti Computing’s cutting-edge 72-qubit Aspen™-M-3 superconducting quantum computer, this research signifies a major leap in understanding quantum advantage requirements. The findings, published in “Science Advances,” highlight the potential of noisy quantum computers in solving complex optimization problems, inching closer to achieving quantum superiority. This breakthrough paves the way for future sophisticated algorithm development in quantum computing and holds promise for enhancing U.S. military capabilities through quantum optimization methods.
NYU Tandon takes a quantum leap with new minor
NYU Tandon School of Engineering is set to launch an undergraduate program in quantum technology starting in the spring 2024 semester, joining a select group of U.S. universities in this rapidly growing field. The program, offered as a minor through the Department of Applied Physics, aims to address the significant talent gap in the quantum industry, where demand for skilled professionals far exceeds supply. Developed in collaboration with SandboxAQ, the curriculum is designed to provide practical skills for careers in quantum technology. The program includes courses like Introduction to Quantum Science and Quantum Programming, additional mathematics and physics requirements, plus electives. This initiative reflects NYU Tandon’s commitment to cutting-edge, interdisciplinary education and includes collaborations for student internships in the quantum computing industry, enhancing their marketability post-graduation.
Kenna Hughes-Castleberry is a staff writer 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.
