(VentureBeat) QuEra Computing, a Boston-based quantum computing startup has emerged from stealth mode with a $17 million funding. QuEra notes this funding has enabled it to build a powerful quantum computing machine that will be easily accessible to users.
QuEra says it’s commercializing its neutral-atom technology — based on the patented research of scientists at Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) — to provide a quantum advantage that allows them to explore new capabilities for scaling their businesses. The company says its technology will empower enterprises to execute computational tasks that are currently not possible.
QuEra says its focus is on making significant advances in two key areas: increasing the number of useful qubits and enhancing their programmability
Keesling said that QuEra is not building the next version of what already exists, but rather a new way of thinking about computing. According to Keesling, QuEra’s machine is built with individual atoms as a way of encoding and processing information — exploiting the quantum properties of these atoms for performing functions that are impossible for other devices. With 256 atomic qubits — as opposed to near 50 atomic qubits in present-day state-of-the-art commercial quantum systems — QuEra claims its new device can do things that explore the realms of scientific discovery for things like material design, chemical reactions, quantum computation, and other quantum issues.
While Keesling admits to strong competition from large technology companies like IBM and Google, as well as rising startups like IonQ, ORCA Computing, Delft Circuits, and CQC2T, he claims they are all working on a slightly different approach to quantum computing. “In our case, we have the most scalable platform by using neutral atoms, as well as a team that developed these technologies, understands them, and is already taking them to a maturity level, where they can start being useful today, rather than five to 10 years down the line,” said Keesling.
This investment round was led by Rakuten, Day One Ventures, Frontiers Capital, with participation from tech investors like Serguei Beloussov, Paul Maritz, among others. QuEra’s neutral-atom technology was built on the patented invention of its scientific co-founders. As published in the science and technology research journal, Nature, QuEra’s 256-qubit programmable quantum simulator is considered a breakthrough development in the capabilities of quantum computing.
QuEra offers new quantum advantage based on Harvard and MIT research
