The Week in Quantum Computing - December 23th - Stocks go high, stocks go low. QuEra does magic, BlueQubit, Quanfluence, China beats Google
Quick Recap
John Preskill's addressed the Q2B 2024 Conference talking about the transition from NISQ to more advanced quantum machines, with Google's Willow processor showing promising progress towards fault-tolerant computing. Meanwhile, concerns about quantum computing's potential threat to Bitcoin's security were downplayed by experts, reinforcing Bitcoin's resilience. NASA's initiatives to integrate quantum computing into space exploration and other fields like healthcare and climate science demonstrate the technology's transformative potential, though cybersecurity concerns persist. MIT and Google's new quantum algorithms aim to enhance AI models, yet real-world implementation remains speculative due to scalability challenges. In the corporate sphere, Planckian's advancements in superconducting quantum processors and IonQ's significant contract with the U.S. Air Force Research Lab highlight the sector's momentum. Quantum Computing Inc. and Rigetti Computing also saw substantial stock increases, driven by Alphabet's Willow chip breakthrough just to see them vanish a few days later (pump & dump?). The unveiling of Zuchongzhi 3.0 by Dongxin Gao's team marked a leap in quantum computational advantage, setting new benchmarks and putting a fight with Willow’s achievement. Honeywell's Quantinuum division's projected $20 billion valuation underscores the growing confidence in quantum technology. Quanfluence raised $2 million seed funding. And SandboxAQ raising $300M.
Quantum stock market
So, this week quantum stocks rallied (perhaps because of Google’s Willow announcement?) and then dived “back to their mean”. While early investors (or those who bought the dip) are still making a good profit. Is this still a safe investment? So, if you thinking on investing in Quantum Computing… That’s great. But start understanding the technology (I think Warren Buffet would say the same thing).
But please, please, don’t just follow advice like this blidnly. This comparison is simply ridiculous.
QuEra saved a great announcement for the end of the year
Experimental Demonstration of Logical Magic State Distillation
Magic states are essential for universal quantum computation because they enable non-Clifford operations, which are necessary for achieving quantum advantage. While stabilizer states and Clifford gates are easier to implement and simulate classically, they are insufficient for universal computation. Magic states provide the "non-classical" resource needed to go beyond these limitations. However, preparing high-fidelity magic states is challenging due to the sensitivity of quantum systems to noise and errors, especially at the logical level in error-corrected systems.
This work demonstrates logical-level magic state distillation (MSD) on a neutral-atom quantum computer using 2D color codes, achieving higher output fidelity than input for both distance-3 and distance-5 logical qubits. This is significant because logical-level MSD had not been demonstrated experimentally before, marking a milestone in error correction and resource state preparation. For the quantum computing industry, this breakthrough highlights a scalable pathway toward fault-tolerant quantum computation by reducing the overhead required for implementing non-Clifford gates. Neutral atom platforms, with their reconfigurability and parallelism, further underline the potential for advancing large-scale, practical quantum systems.
This work reflects the efforts of the entire QuEra Computing Inc. team and collaborators at Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Paper: https://arxiv.org/abs/2412.15165v1
QuEra is hiring: https://lnkd.in/eCkTdDwz.
The Galaxy of Quantum Computing Software
Michel Kurek has put together a great infography that summarizes the galaxy and state of quantum computing software companies.
The Week in Quantum Computing
Beyond NISQ: The Megaquop Machine
John Preskill addressed the Q2B 2024 Conference, emphasizing the transition from NISQ (Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum) to more advanced quantum machines like the "megaquop." These machines, capable of executing millions of quantum operations, remain a distant goal due to current technological limitations, particularly in error correction. Preskill highlighted Google's advancements with their Willow superconducting processor, which has shown improved error rates and stability, suggesting progress towards fault-tolerant quantum computing. Despite these advancements, Preskill remains cautious, stating, "I can’t promise commercially viable applications." The journey towards fault-tolerant quantum computing continues, with significant hurdles yet to overcome, but the progress is promising.
https://quantumfrontiers.com/2024/12/14/beyond-nisq-the-megaquop-machine/
Ignore the FUD: Quantum computing won’t kill bitcoin
In December 2024, concerns arose about quantum computing's potential threat to Bitcoin's security, following Google's announcement of its advanced quantum chip, Willow. This chip reportedly performs computations beyond the capabilities of classical computers. Despite fears, experts like Jameson Lopp, Chief Security Officer at Casa, dismiss the notion that quantum computing could imminently compromise Bitcoin. Historical patterns show Bitcoin's resilience against similar doomsday predictions. The educational site 99bitcoins documents 477 instances where Bitcoin was declared "dead," yet it consistently rebounds. Lopp's advice remains: "Is Bitcoin dying because of quantum computing? No." The narrative underscores Bitcoin's enduring robustness amidst technological advancements and speculative fears.
NASA’s Quantum Leap! Discover How Quantum Computing is Revolutionizing Space Exploration
NASA is leveraging quantum computing to revolutionize space exploration, enhancing its ability to simulate cosmic phenomena, optimize spacecraft trajectories, and analyze vast data sets. This technology promises to transform astrophysics by executing simulations in minutes rather than months, aiding in the understanding of black holes and the Big Bang. NASA's partnerships with tech companies and academic institutions are crucial as quantum computing becomes integral to its operations. Beyond space, quantum computing could revolutionize healthcare by accelerating drug discovery and improve climate science through enhanced modeling. However, concerns about its impact on cybersecurity remain. As Gabriel Harris notes, "Quantum computing promises to rewrite the script for industries," but its challenges must be managed as we advance into this new era.
Quantum algorithms can break generative AI bottlenecks
In December 2024, researchers at MIT and Google have unveiled new quantum algorithms designed to enhance generative AI models by addressing computational bottlenecks. The algorithms reportedly improve the efficiency of quantum circuits, potentially accelerating AI training processes. However, the real-world implementation remains speculative, as quantum hardware still faces significant scalability challenges. This algorithm could be used for molecular dynamics and other pattern recognition based challenges.
https://techxplore.com/news/2024-12-quantum-algorithms-generative-ai-bottlenecks.html
Increasing efficiency of globally driven superconducting quantum processor.
Planckian has announced advancements in superconducting quantum processors, emphasizing scalability through a novel global driving control setup. This approach aims to circumvent the intricate challenges associated with individual qubit addressing, a significant hurdle in quantum computing. By focusing on global driving, Planckian seeks to enhance the efficiency and scalability of quantum processors, which is crucial for the practical implementation of quantum computing technologies. This development is noteworthy as it addresses a core issue in the field, potentially paving the way for more robust and scalable quantum systems. As quantum computing continues to evolve in 2024, such innovations are vital for overcoming existing limitations and moving closer to realizing the full potential of quantum technologies.
IonQ, Quantum Computing And Rigetti Computing Shares Are Soaring Monday: What's Going On?
IonQ, Quantum Computing Inc., and Rigetti Computing shares surged on Monday, driven by Alphabet's breakthrough with its "Willow" quantum chip, which significantly reduces errors and outperforms traditional supercomputers. IonQ's shares rose over 25%, bolstered by its ion trap technology and a $54.5 million contract with the U.S. Air Force Research Lab. Quantum Computing Inc. shares increased by more than 60% following a purchase order for its TFLN photonic chip from the University of Texas at Austin, emphasizing its potential in next-gen photonics and quantum applications. Rigetti's shares, up over 600% in three months, face scrutiny from Citron Research over valuation concerns.
Paper: Establishing a New Benchmark in Quantum Computational Advantage with 105-qubit Zuchongzhi 3.0 Processor
In December 2024, researchers led by Dongxin Gao unveiled the Zuchongzhi 3.0, a superconducting quantum computer with 105 qubits, marking a significant leap in quantum computational advantage. The device boasts impressive operational fidelities: 99.90% for single-qubit gates, 99.62% for two-qubit gates, and 99.18% for readout. Notably, the Zuchongzhi 3.0 executed an 83-qubit, 32-cycle random circuit sampling, producing one million samples in mere seconds—a feat unattainable by classical supercomputers like Frontier, which would require approximately 6.4 billion years. This development surpasses Google's SYC-67 and SYC-70 experiments, setting a new benchmark in quantum computing. As quantum processors advance, they are poised to address complex real-world problems, heralding a transformative era in computational capabilities.
https://arxiv.org/abs/2412.11924v1
Quantinuum would be worth 20 Billion
In 2024, Honeywell's quantum computing division, Quantinuum, is projected to reach a valuation of $20 billion. This significant figure underscores the growing confidence in quantum technology's potential to revolutionize industries. Quantinuum, a collaboration between Honeywell and Cambridge Quantum, focuses on advancing quantum computing capabilities. The valuation reflects the increasing demand for quantum solutions in fields like cryptography, optimization, and materials science. Honeywell's CEO, Darius Adamczyk, emphasized the transformative impact of quantum computing, stating, "Quantum computing will fundamentally change the way we solve problems." As the quantum race intensifies, this valuation highlights the strategic importance of investing in quantum technologies, signaling a pivotal moment for stakeholders in the quantum ecosystem.
pi Ventures leads $2 Mn seed round in Quanfluence
In December 2024, Quanfluence, a photonic quantum technology startup, secured $2 million in seed funding led by pi Ventures, with contributions from Golden Sparrow and Reena Dayal. Established in 2021, Quanfluence aims to develop a fault-tolerant, general-purpose quantum computer within five to six years. The company claims its optical Ising machine offers 100x faster optimization by using light waves and advanced photonic circuits, paired with high-speed FPGAs, to handle 128 interconnected variables (~10,000 permutations). They plan to test a more advanced system capable of processing 10-25 million permutations next quarter, targeting complex optimization challenges in finance, logistics, and workforce scheduling. Quanfluence's approach could redefine scalability and energy efficiency in quantum computing.
https://entrackr.com/snippets/pi-ventures-leads-2-mn-seed-round-in-quanfluence-8449685
Sweet Scientific Advantage
Atom Computing and Microsoft have announced a quantum machine featuring 24 entangled logical qubits, claiming it as the largest on record. They achieved a GHZ state, entangling all 24 qubits, and demonstrated error correction with a 4-2-2 code, using only two physical qubits per logical qubit. This milestone is significant for quantum error correction (QEC). Additionally, they executed the Bernstein-Vazirani algorithm with 28 logical qubits, employing a 4-1-2 code and 112 atoms, achieving computation "below threshold." While the goal is commercial advantage, the focus remains on achieving "scientific advantage" first. Notably, Atom-Microsoft offers logical qubits via the AC1000, integrating HPC and AI, though not yet through Azure Quantum cloud. This development underscores the incremental progress towards practical quantum computing applications.
BlueQubit raises $10M to take Quantum software into real-world applications
BlueQubit, a San Francisco-based quantum software startup founded by Stanford alumni, has secured $10 million in seed funding led by Nyca Partners. The company aims to bridge the gap between quantum and classical computing through its Quantum Software-as-a-Service (QSaaS) platform, which provides access to quantum processing units and emulators. CEO Hrant Gharibyan highlights their use of GPUs to develop quantum algorithms, claiming their emulators run "up to 100 times faster" than alternatives. This funding underscores the growing interest in quantum computing's potential to revolutionize sectors like finance and pharmaceuticals. Google's recent Willow chip announcement further emphasizes quantum's promise, performing tasks in minutes that would take supercomputers 10 septillion years.
How Quantum Could Disrupt Creativity
In 2024, quantum computing continues to promise transformative impacts across various sectors, including creativity. Notably, IBM and Google are leading advancements, with IBM's Quantum System One and Google's Sycamore processor pushing boundaries. IBM's Dario Gil emphasizes, "Quantum computing will redefine what's possible in creative problem-solving." However, challenges remain, such as error rates and scalability. MIT's William Oliver highlights, "We are still in the early days of understanding quantum's full potential." The University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering is also making strides in quantum algorithms, crucial for creative applications. As quantum technology evolves, its potential to revolutionize creative industries becomes more tangible, yet the journey from promise to practical application remains complex and uncertain.
https://www.iotworldtoday.com/quantum/how-quantum-algorithms-could-disrupt-creativity
Quantum Computing Stock Plummets 40% After Record Rally
Quantum Computing Inc. (QUBT) experienced a dramatic 40% stock drop after a 578% surge, highlighting the volatility in the quantum computing sector. This fluctuation is attributed to speculative trading and a broader market correction impacting high-growth tech stocks. Analysts suggest that while investors have capitalized on recent gains, the decline reflects the speculative nature of emerging technologies. The quantum computing field, despite its short-term market instability, remains under scrutiny for its potential to revolutionize computational capabilities. As Nauman Khan reports, "a measured approach and due diligence" are crucial for investors in this rapidly evolving industry. The recent events underscore the inherent risks and opportunities in quantum computing investments as the sector continues to mature.
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/quantum-computing-stock-plummets-40-073550360.html
SandboxAQ, and AI startup Raises $300M at Over $5.6 Billion Valuation
SandboxAQ, an AI startup, has secured funding at a valuation exceeding $5.6 billion by investors including New York-based investment firm Fred Alger Management, T. Rowe Price, and Breyer Capital. This significant valuation underscores the growing interest and investment in quantum computing technologies. SandboxAQ, which emerged from Alphabet Inc., focuses on the intersection of AI and quantum computing, aiming to solve complex computational problems. The funding round highlights the increasing confidence in quantum computing's potential to revolutionize industries, despite its current limitations. As noted by industry experts, "The race to quantum supremacy is not just about speed, but about solving real-world problems," emphasizing the strategic importance of such investments. This development signals a strong belief in quantum computing's transformative capabilities, setting the stage for further advancements in 2024.
Paper: QuEra Experimental Demonstration of Logical Magic State Distillation
In a significant advancement for quantum computing, researchers led by Pedro Sales Rodriguez have experimentally demonstrated logical magic state distillation using a neutral-atom quantum computer. This process is crucial for achieving universal fault-tolerant quantum computation, as it allows for the creation of high-fidelity magic states necessary for implementing complex quantum circuits. The team successfully distilled magic states encoded in d=3 and d=5 color codes, showcasing improvements in logical fidelity. This experiment marks a pivotal step toward large-scale logical quantum processors, highlighting the potential of dynamically reconfigurable architectures in quantum error correction. As Mikhail D. Lukin notes, "This work is a key building block for future quantum technologies."
https://arxiv.org/abs/2412.15165v1
Venture Capitalists Offer 2025 Predictions For Quantum, Deep Tech
In 2024, the quantum computing industry experienced significant developments, notably the rise of neutral atom quantum computers from companies like Pasqal, QuEra, and Atom Computing, and initial demonstrations of quantum error correction. Will Zeng from Quantonation highlights the importance of scalable control electronics, leading to investments in companies like QBlox. Silicon qubits are gaining traction, with Diraq showcasing advancements in CMOS-based chips. Dan Caruso of Caruso Ventures emphasizes the interplay between quantum tech and AI, predicting a societal revolution. Quantum infrastructure and software, such as Superstaq, are seen as strategic investments.
CISA: 2035 Quantum Encryption Deadline Still Achievable
The article discusses the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency's (CISA) stance on achieving quantum encryption readiness by 2035. CISA's Eric Goldstein emphasizes the importance of transitioning to quantum-resistant encryption to safeguard against future quantum threats. The urgency stems from the potential of quantum computers to break current cryptographic systems, posing significant risks to data security. The 2035 deadline is seen as ambitious but achievable, provided that organizations begin preparations now. This timeline aligns with the National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) ongoing efforts to standardize post-quantum cryptographic algorithms. As quantum computing advances, the pressure mounts on institutions to adapt swiftly, underscoring the critical need for proactive measures in quantum encryption readiness.
https://www.govinfosecurity.com/cisa-2035-quantum-encryption-deadline-still-achievable-a-27110
Scientists achieve collective quantum behavior in macroscopic oscillators
In a groundbreaking study, researchers at EPFL, led by Mahdi Chegnizadeh, have successfully demonstrated collective quantum behavior in a hexamer of macroscopic mechanical oscillators. This achievement marks a significant step in exploring quantum collective phenomena, which could pave the way for advancements in quantum technologies. The ability to observe quantum effects in larger systems challenges the traditional boundary between quantum and classical physics, potentially leading to more robust quantum computing systems. As quantum technologies continue to evolve, such findings underscore the importance of bridging the gap between theoretical predictions and experimental realizations. As Chegnizadeh notes, "This work opens new avenues for quantum research in macroscopic systems," highlighting the ongoing quest to harness quantum mechanics for practical applications.
https://phys.org/news/2024-12-scientists-quantum-behavior-macroscopic-oscillators.html
Here’s why it’s important to build long-term cryptographic resilience
In 2024, the urgency for long-term cryptographic resilience is underscored by advancements in quantum computing, which threaten current encryption methods. The World Economic Forum emphasizes the need for robust cryptographic strategies to safeguard data against potential quantum threats. As quantum computers evolve, they could potentially break widely-used encryption algorithms, posing risks to global data security. The article highlights the importance of transitioning to quantum-resistant cryptographic systems to protect sensitive information. "The race is on to develop quantum-safe encryption before quantum computers become a reality," states a leading expert in the field. This highlights the pressing need for proactive measures in cryptography to ensure data integrity in the quantum era.
https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/12/cryptographic-resilience-build-cybersecurity-nist/