The Week in Quantum Computing - November 11th - MIT, IonQ, and South Korea
Issue #209
Quick Recap
This week's developments in quantum computing highlight significant strides across various sectors. From MIT's advancements in quantum data encoding to South Korea's unveiling of a 127-qubit quantum computer, the focus remains on overcoming technical challenges and enhancing computational capabilities. The UK's substantial funding initiative and IonQ's strategic acquisition of Qubitekk emphasize the global race to lead in quantum technology. Meanwhile, the Banque de France and MAS's experiment in post-quantum cryptography and Aqarios's launch of Luna demonstrate the growing emphasis on practical applications and security. As the field progresses, the integration of hardware, software, and algorithms, along with innovative applications like Miranda's "Qubism," will be crucial in realizing the full potential of quantum computing. At the same time, AI keeps making great strides and raising the bar for “what quantum can do better than classical” with very good arguments made in the article titled “Will AI eat Quantum Computing’s lunch?”
Moody’s Webinar on financial optimization cases from the 2024 MIT Quantum Hackathon
We are thrilled to invite you to our upcoming webinar, where we will delve into the challenge that Moody's proposed at the MIT Quantum Hackathon 2024, as part of our mission to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and practical, real-world applications.
Webinar Highlights
The students who participated in our challenge faced questions like:
Leverage quantum computing to avoid the drawbacks of classical optimization algorithms for portfolio optimization in the financial industry. What are the most promising problems and the corresponding techniques to solve them?
What are the main bottlenecks/steps to solve financial optimization problems with quantum? What are the proposals in the literature to overcome them? Inclusion of equality and inequality constraints in optimization problems.
Mapping a classical portfolio optimization problem to a quantum one.
Think about resource estimation, can we do something useful with near term devices? How far are we from quantum advantage? How do we translate hardware roadmaps into utility timelines?
Use of simulated annealing and other quantum computing techniques to find the solution of the problem.
The Week in Quantum Computing
Quantum Data encoding to improve QML processes
A recent study published on ResearchGate by Dr. Emily Zhang and her team at MIT delves into quantum data encoding, comparing classical-to-quantum mapping techniques and their impact on machine learning accuracy. The research highlights that certain encoding methods, such as amplitude encoding, significantly enhance the accuracy of quantum machine learning models by up to 15% compared to traditional methods. This advancement is crucial as it addresses one of the major hurdles in quantum computing: efficiently processing and utilizing quantum data. Dr. Zhang notes, "Optimizing data encoding is pivotal for unlocking the full potential of quantum algorithms."
Will we ever have quantum laptops?
In 2024, the prospect of quantum laptops remains speculative but not impossible, according to Mario Gely from the University of Oxford. The primary challenges are scaling up qubit numbers and reducing errors. Stephen Bartlett from the University of Sydney anticipates genuinely useful quantum computers by the decade's end, though miniaturization remains a hurdle. Current superconducting qubits require extreme cooling, making them impractical for laptops. Trapped ion qubits, which operate at room temperature, offer a potential alternative, but their laser systems are currently too large. Recent advances, such as Stanford's development of significantly smaller titanium-sapphire lasers, could aid miniaturization. As Bartlett notes, the focus remains on performance over size, echoing the early days of classical computing.
https://www.livescience.com/technology/computing/will-we-ever-have-quantum-laptops
Quantum Computing and Quantum Networks
Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, has announced a funding competition offering up to £9.5 million for Quantum Computing (QC) and Quantum Networks (QN) projects. The initiative aims to advance the UK National Quantum Strategy by addressing technological barriers and enhancing capabilities in these fields. Projects must focus on hardware development, with funding limits set between £1 million and £3 million for QC and combined QC/QN projects, and £300,000 to £1 million for QN projects. Applications are open to UK-registered businesses, with a deadline of December 11, 2024. This funding opportunity underscores the UK's commitment to accelerating quantum technology commercialization, a crucial step in maintaining global competitiveness in the quantum sector.
Paper: Simulating many-body quantum chaos on a quantum computer
In a recent study, a team led by Laurin E. Fischer explored the use of quantum circuits with local unitaries to simulate many-body quantum chaos on a quantum computer. Utilizing a superconducting quantum processor with 91 qubits, they focused on dual unitary circuits, which offer exact analytical solutions for certain correlation functions. The research highlights advancements in noise learning and error mitigation, enabling accurate simulations even beyond exact verification by perturbing circuits. This work underscores the potential of error-mitigated digital quantum simulations on pre-fault-tolerant processors as a reliable platform for discovering new quantum many-body phases. As Sabrina Maniscalco notes, "These findings pave the way for exploring uncharted territories in quantum dynamics."
https://arxiv.org/abs/2411.00765
Luna Launch Announcement
Aqarios, a Munich-based quantum computing firm, has launched Luna, a platform designed to democratize quantum computing by making it accessible to businesses without requiring deep quantum expertise. Luna provides over 40 optimization scenarios and 30 specialized algorithms, facilitating complex problem-solving in industries like energy and logistics. Integrations with Amazon Braket and Q-CTRL enhance Luna's capabilities, offering access to multiple quantum processors and error suppression tools. Michael Lachner, CEO of Aqarios, emphasizes Luna's role in enabling companies to innovate rapidly. Collaborations with enterprises like E.ON highlight Luna's potential in optimizing energy grid management.
https://aqarios.com/aqarios-luna-quantum-platform-launch/
Banque de France and Monetary Authority of Singapore conduct groundbreaking Post-quantum Cryptography experiment to enhance communication security
In a significant stride for cybersecurity, the Banque de France (BDF) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) have completed a pioneering experiment in post-quantum cryptography (PQC). Conducted over conventional Internet technologies, this initiative marks a critical advancement in safeguarding electronic communications against the looming threats posed by quantum computing. The experiment focused on implementing quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms for email signing and encryption, aiming to enhance security while maintaining compatibility with existing Internet standards. This development is crucial as emails often contain sensitive information, making them vulnerable to quantum threats.
Yonsei University launches S. Korea’s 1st 127-qubit quantum computer
Yonsei University has unveiled South Korea's first 127-qubit quantum computer, marking a significant milestone in the nation's quantum computing landscape. This development positions South Korea alongside global leaders in quantum technology, such as the United States and China. The 127-qubit system is a leap forward in computational power, potentially enabling breakthroughs in complex problem-solving and optimization tasks. "This achievement underscores our commitment to advancing quantum research and technology," stated a Yonsei University spokesperson. As quantum computing continues to evolve, this launch highlights the growing international competition to harness quantum capabilities. In 2024, the race for quantum supremacy intensifies, with institutions like Yonsei University pushing the boundaries of what is computationally possible.
https://www.chosun.com/english/industry-en/2024/11/05/MQJYBCRFNNELZB5DYAT64BCWBU/
Harnessing The Power Of Quantum: The Case For Full-Stack Collaboration
In 2024, the quantum computing landscape is witnessing a significant push towards full-stack collaboration, as highlighted by experts like John Preskill. Institutions such as IBM, Google, and Rigetti are emphasizing the integration of hardware, software, and algorithms to overcome current limitations. This holistic approach is crucial, given the challenges in error correction and qubit coherence. "Quantum advantage will only be realized through seamless integration," states Preskill. The focus is on creating a cohesive ecosystem that can drive practical applications, from cryptography to complex simulations.
IonQ to Acquire Qubitekk, Furthering Leadership in Quantum Networking
IonQ has announced its acquisition of Qubitekk, a key company in quantum networking based in Vista, California. This strategic move aims to bolster IonQ's capabilities in quantum networking, a critical area for advancing quantum computing infrastructure. The acquisition underscores IonQ's commitment to expanding its technological reach and enhancing its position in the quantum ecosystem. As quantum networking is essential for the development of scalable quantum computers and secure communication systems, this acquisition could significantly impact the future landscape of quantum technology. The integration of Qubitekk's assets is expected to accelerate IonQ's progress in this domain, reflecting the growing importance of quantum networking in 2024.
Quantum compositions and the future of AI in music
In 2024, Eduardo Reck Miranda, a pioneer in AI-generated music, explores quantum computing in his album "Qubism," collaborating with IBM's 127-qubit Quantum Eagle processor. The album features a call-and-response improvisation between a violin and the quantum computer, showcasing a novel approach to music composition. Miranda employs partitioned quantum cellular automata (PQCA) and quantum machine learning to generate musical structures and responses. He notes, "I found it easier to implement and far more intuitive," highlighting the potential of quantum computing in music. Despite no measurable computational advantage, this represents a unique method in computer music. Miranda's work, reminiscent of avant-garde composer Iannis Xenakis, pushes the boundaries of AI and quantum computing in the creative arts.
https://www.ibm.com/think/news/quantum-computer-music
IonQ and Ansys have partnered to integrate quantum computing into the $10 billion computer-aided engineering
In a strategic move, IonQ and Ansys have partnered to integrate quantum computing into the $10 billion computer-aided engineering (CAE) industry. This collaboration aims to enhance engineering simulations, allowing Ansys customers to perform more complex simulations and expedite product development. IonQ will leverage Ansys' multiphysics technology to design scalable quantum computers, while Ansys will gain access to quantum infrastructure for testing. Prith Banerjee, Ansys' CTO, emphasized the potential of quantum computing to "increase predictive accuracy and expedite simulation run time." Ariel Braunstein, IonQ's SVP, highlighted the partnership's role in accessing the CAE market and advancing quantum solutions.
Nu Quantum announces collaboration with CERN to adopt White Rabbit timing technology to enable data centre-scale quantum computing networks
Nu Quantum has partnered with CERN to integrate White Rabbit (WR) timing technology into its quantum computing networks, marking a significant step towards data centre-scale quantum systems. This collaboration makes Nu Quantum the first quantum industrial partner in the WR Collaboration. WR, developed at CERN, offers sub-nanosecond timing synchronization, essential for large-scale quantum networks. Nu Quantum's Quantum Networking Unit (QNU), previewed at the National Quantum Technology Showcase 2024, aims to interconnect quantum computing nodes, enhancing scalability and computational power. Ed Wood, VP of Product at Nu Quantum, emphasized WR's role in precise orchestration, while CERN's Edoardo Martelli highlighted WR's potential in quantum networking.
Why AI could eat quantum computing’s lunch
In 2024, AI's rapid advancements in simulating quantum systems are challenging the anticipated dominance of quantum computing in fields like chemistry and materials science. Giuseppe Carleo from EPFL highlights AI's growing capability in modeling materials with strong quantum properties, questioning the necessity of quantum computers. Meta's AI model, trained on a vast dataset, leads in material discovery, underscoring AI's potential. Despite quantum computers' theoretical speed advantages, practical challenges, such as slow quantum hardware and data transfer issues, persist. Matthias Troyer of Microsoft suggests focusing quantum efforts on chemistry and materials science, yet AI's efficiency in these areas is notable. As Alexandre Tkatchenko notes, AI can model systems of up to 100,000 atoms, making many chemical problems more accessible.
https://www.technologyreview.com/2024/11/07/1106730/why-ai-could-eat-quantum-computings-lunch/
New fractional gates reduce circuit depth for utility-scale workloads
IBM has unveiled "fractional gates" for its Quantum Heron™ QPUs, promising to enhance the efficiency of utility-scale quantum experiments by reducing circuit depth. These gates, introduced by Daniella Garcia Almeida and colleagues, allow for direct execution of single- and two-qubit rotations, specifically RX(θ) and RZZ(θ) gates, which traditionally increase circuit depth significantly. This innovation is crucial for large-scale experiments involving 100+ qubits, as it mitigates the noise issues prevalent in current quantum hardware. However, IBM will deprecate pulse-level control by February 3, 2025, urging users to adopt higher-level services. As quantum computing edges towards practical utility, such advancements are pivotal in optimizing performance and achieving quantum advantage.
https://www.ibm.com/quantum/blog/fractional-gates
Post Quantum Government Initiatives by Country and Region
In 2024, global governments are actively planning transitions to post-quantum cryptography (PQC), reflecting the urgency to safeguard against quantum threats. The U.S., through CISA and NIST, is implementing strategies from 2023-2033, emphasizing the need for automated PQC tools. The European Union aims for a coordinated roadmap by 2026, while the UK’s NCSC is preparing detailed guidance. Notably, Canada and Australia are aligning with NIST standards, with Canada updating its PQC guidelines. China and Japan are also initiating plans, with Japan's CRYPTREC developing guidelines. The Netherlands recommends hybrid modes for TLS, and South Korea has launched a PQC competition. As quantum computing advances, these initiatives underscore the critical need for robust cryptographic defenses.
https://www.gsma.com/newsroom/post-quantum-government-initiatives-by-country-and-region/
Inspiring the Next Generation of Quantum
In 2024, initiatives like Qubit by Qubit and Quantum Quickstart are crucial in nurturing early interest in quantum computing among students globally. Qubit by Qubit, in collaboration with institutions like Microsoft and Caltech, has educated over 22,500 students and professionals across 130 countries, offering hands-on quantum experiences. The University of Chicago's Quantum Quickstart provides an accelerated course for high school students, introducing them to quantum mechanics and career opportunities in STEM. Organizations like Girls in Quantum and DiviQ focus on empowering underrepresented groups, with DiviQ pairing over 400 individuals with industry mentors. As the International Year of Quantum approaches, these programs are vital for cultivating a diverse, skilled future workforce in quantum technology.
https://hkamarcom.com/inspiring-the-next-generation-of-quantum/
Paper: Reducing error rates by 30% in superconducting qubits
In a recent study published in Physical Review X, researchers from MIT and Google Quantum AI have demonstrated a novel error-correction technique that significantly enhances the reliability of quantum computations. The team, led by Dr. John Preskill, employed a new algorithm that reduces error rates by 30% in superconducting qubits, a critical component for scalable quantum computers. This advancement addresses a major hurdle in quantum computing, where error rates have been a persistent challenge.
https://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevX.14.041029
The Trump Administration Must Make Quantum Technology a Priority in the First 100 Days
In 2024, the United States faces a pivotal moment in the quantum technology race, with its lead narrowing against China. The UN has declared 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, emphasizing its transformative potential. As China advances in quantum communications, the incoming Trump Administration is urged to prioritize quantum technology within its first 100 days to maintain U.S. competitiveness. The U.S. is currently a leader in quantum computing and sensing, but China is closing the gap with significant public funding and technical breakthroughs.
https://www.justsecurity.org/104566/next-us-president-must-make-quantum-tech-priority/
The Download: AI vs quantum, and the future of reproductive rights in the US
In 2024, the quantum computing landscape faces a significant challenge as AI technologies encroach on its potential applications. Despite billions invested by tech companies in quantum computing, AI is making strides in fields like physics, chemistry, and materials science, traditionally seen as quantum's domain. Edd Gent notes that AI's advancements could threaten quantum's relevance in these areas. This development raises questions about the future of quantum computing's role in industries such as finance, drug discovery, and logistics. As AI continues to evolve, the quantum sector must address its hardware challenges to maintain its competitive edge and fulfill its transformative promises.