The Week in Quantum Computing - October 9th - Milestones in Fault Tolerance, Quantum Communication, and Machine Learning Integration
Issue #155
The Week in Quantum Computing. Brought to you by Sergio Gago (@piratecto).
Quick Recap
We got it, it seems we are out of the NISQ era and we are entering FTQC! Quantinuum has beenable to run an algorithm with three logically encoded qubits. This is useless of course but it marks the beginning of an era!
At the same time Riken and Fujitsu launch their second computer (as well as CESGA in Spain. A collaboration of Haiqu and the Perimeter Institute to work on quantum processors and push forward Canada’s quantum valley. QC Design's discussion on NISQ devices' transition to FTQCs underscores the crucial role of fault tolerance in honing quantum computing's full potential. Quantum error mitigation can be significantly enhanced with machine learning, now proven. Advances in quantum communication have set a new record, made possible through a strategic partnership among the University of York, The Quantum Communications Hub, and euNetworks sending quantum comms through 224 kilometers of subsea fiber optics between the UK and Ireland.
Ah, and a magnificent survey paper by AWS research and others called “Quantum Algorithms: A Survey of Applications and End-to-End Complexities”. It is a must read to know what is possible and how.
The battle is heating up. After IonQ’s announcement last week (where we already said it is nothing really useful):
D-Wave’s CEO replied (and it has created a funny tweet-war)
For reference, they are not doing that well.
And also it makes absolutely no sense to compare the amount of qubits in an annealing device than in a trapped ion (or other gate based device) and the claims about beating classical solutions have been widely contested among the scientific community. This comes in a moment when insiders bought shares are tumbling.
This is a good segway into the hype and the academic-industry communicty, and how something similar is happening with LLMs.
Transcript:
The core of so many arguments about LLMs:
Group 1 is builders who have pragmatic expectations of LLMs, and use them accordingly. They're quite happy with them.
Group 2 is shitfluencers who are jumping on the hype wave and ruining it for everyone.
Group 3 hates group 2 and loves showing the deficiencies of LLMs to get back at them. Some are realists, others just have very high expectations of AI.
Group 1 doesn't understand group 3, because they just ignore group 2 and make use of it. They feel like group 3 is being unfair to LLMs and cherry-picking. Now, group 3 starts arguing with group 1. "LLMs are not reliable! They can't always perform complex reasoning!" they shout. "We agree!" group 1 responds. "But they're still useful!" And that argument continues, between two groups that agree more than they realize. Meanwhile, group 2 frolics about, ignoring this entire debate, continuing to post "10 ways to make $10k/mo with ChatGPT" And the cycle continues.
Now, just change “LLM” for “Quantum Computer” and you have a pretty good representation of our industry community today.
The Week in Quantum Computing
Haiqu and Perimeter Institute Join Forces to grow a research team at the Perimeter Institute’s Quantum Intelligence Lab (PIQuIL)
Quantum computing software startup Haiqu is partnering with the Perimeter Institute, a prominent theoretical physics research center in Canada. The collaboration will increase the efficiency of quantum processors and initiate a research team at the Perimeter Institute’s Quantum Intelligence Lab (PIQuIL). PIQuIL's founder, Roger Melko, sees this effort as a means to bridge the gap between research and commercial application in quantum computing. Meanwhile, Richard Givhan, Haiqu's CEO, emphasizes the intense competition for talent in the sector. The partnership also extends internship opportunities at Haiqu, encouraging broad talent participation. The Perimeter Institute's location in Canada's "Quantum Valley" further provides Haiqu with a valuable talent network and dynamic ecosystem. Key takeaway: the fusion of academic research and commercial application may fast-track advancements in the quantum computing landscape.
NISQ2FTQC: The Transition from NISQ to FTQC – Part 1
In a series of articles by GQI, featuring Dr. Ish Dhand, CEO and co-founder of QC Design, the transition from NISQ (noisy intermediate scale quantum) devices to FTQC (fault-tolerant quantum computing) is discussed. This shift is argued to be integral to unlocking quantum computing's full potential, with FTQC giving users the ability to design reliable quantum circuits despite qubit and gate imperfections. Through fault tolerance, the possibility of achieving 'transformational applications' such as faster drug development, new methods for carbon capture and new materials for batteries is possible. This is made possible by running circuits with millions of gates, only feasible with FTQC. It highlights the work of multiple academic teams, companies and researchers charting the way towards fault-tolerant quantum computers. The key takeaway is that the shift to fault tolerance is critical to advancing quantum computing's real-world applications.
https://quantumcomputingreport.com/nisq2ftqc-the-transition-from-nisq-to-ftqc-part-1/
Researchers advance topological superconductors for quantum computing
The Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) researchers are making strides in quantum computing innovation, leveraging topological superconductors for potential breakthroughs. Co-led by Robert Moore and Matthew Brahlek, the study focused on interfacing superconductors and topological insulators, creating an atomically sharp interface possibility for a new phase of matter projected to host Majorana particles - predicted robust qubits possessing superior quantum memory. Moore's expertise in angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES), Brahlek's proficiency in molecular beam epitaxy, and the backing of ORNL's Quantum Science Center and INTERSECT program, seed the successful atom-by-atom synthesis of topological insulating and superconducting materials. The major takeaway is that controlling topological insulator and superconductor interfaces could potentially revolutionize quantum computing through the creation of robust, superior qubits.
https://www.ornl.gov/news/researchers-advance-topological-superconductors-quantum-computing
From vacuum tubes to qubits – is quantum computing destined to repeat history?
The world of quantum computing today parallels the early era of vacuum tube computers — specialized, expensive, and complex, according to Gartner analyst, Matthew Brisse. Although there's no task quantum computers can definitively outperform classical systems in yet, early adoption, particularly in the financial sector, is yielding some advantages. Governments and organizations like DARPA are investing heavily in quantum tech, banking on its potential future capabilities. Similarly, organizations like Toyota, Hyundai, and ExxonMobil have partnered with quantum vendors, eyeing gains in various sectors from better battery technology to investment risk reduction. However, the focus on short-term returns has led many CIOs to prioritize generative AI over quantum computing. Despite the uncertainties, Brisse advises preparing for forthcoming innovations in quantum tech, stating, "We are out of the lab and we are now looking at commercialization."
https://www.theregister.com/2023/10/03/quantum_repeat_history/
Paper Machine Learning for Practical Quantum Error Mitigation
A research paper published by Haoran Liao, Derek S. Wang, Iskandar Sitdikov, Ciro Salcedo, Alireza Seif, Zlatko K. Minev reveals that machine learning can significantly improve quantum error mitigation (QEM) in quantum computers. The team’s technique, named ML-QEM, drammatically reduces overheads and improves accuracy. These advancements were achieved through simulations and experiments on state-of-the-art quantum computers with up to 100 qubits. Multiple machine learning models such as linear regression, random forests, multi-layer perceptrons, and graph neural networks were tested on diverse quantum circuits. The findings enhance the potential of classical machine learning for practical quantum computation. The key take away from this study indicates that the application of machine learning shows promising potential to accelerate the practicality and affordability of quantum computing.
https://arxiv.org/abs/2309.17368v1
The Quantum Leap’s Beginner Guide to “Entanglement”
The power of entanglement, a profound quantum property, is driving exponential scaling in quantum computing and enabling ultra-precise sensors, according to Russ Fein of Quantum Leap. Entangled quantum particles maintain a robust correlation, regardless of distance, enhancing computational power and sensor sensitivity. Quantum computers with 100 fully entangled qubits could perform calculations beyond the capability of classical computing resources. Nonetheless, current barriers include the short lifespan of information in noisy qubits and the difficulty of simultaneously entangling many qubits. Quantum sensors, despite their fragility, are already being deployed in fields including defence, healthcare, and energy, with a University of Michigan team improving measurement sensitivity by 40% and speed by 60% using entangled sensors. As Fein concludes, while human comprehension of these effects is challenging, practical applications are advancing swiftly.
https://quantumtech.blog/2023/10/03/the-quantum-leaps-beginner-guide-to-entanglement/
Quantinuum's H1 quantum computer successfully executes a fully fault-tolerant algorithm with three logically-encoded qubits
Quantinuum's H1 quantum computer has successfully implemented a fully fault-tolerant algorithm with three logically-encoded qubits. This achievement signifies a major step in improving quantum computing resilience. Qubits, the fundamental units of quantum information, are usually prone to errors, hence, getting them to operate fault-tolerantly is a significant breakthrough. Quantinuum remains at the forefront of quantum technology advancements with this accomplishment. The significant takeaway is the successful execution of fault-tolerant algorithms on three qubits, which potentially paves the way for advancements in quantum computing resilience and efficiency.
Quantum Communications Demoed Across Subsea Fiber Optics
A team from the University of York has set a new record in the field of quantum communications by sending unhackable quantum information over 224 kilometers of subsea fiber optics between the UK and Ireland. This feat was made possible through the University's partnership with The Quantum Communications Hub and infrastructure provider euNetworks. Leveraging ultra-low-loss fiber infrastructure capable of transmitting multiple terabits, this endeavor demonstrated the potential of photonic qubits in long-distance data transmission. Research lead Professor Marco Lucamarini highlighted the challenges posed by distance and information loss in quantum communications, particularly relevant for organizations needing to transmit private data over long distances. The key take-away from this development is the impressive strides already made in quantum communications towards commercialization.
https://www.tomshardware.com/news/quantum-communications-demoed-across-subsea-fiber-optics
A simple introduction to Quantum enhanced SVM
Tech and data science expert Matheus Cammarosano Hidalgo penned an article that delves into the fusion of Quantum Machine Learning (QML) with Support Vector Machine (SVM), known as Quantum enhanced SVM (QSVM). He observes that while quantum computers are not yet widely adopted, QML carries potential for future modelling. Hidalgo found that translating SVM to a parameterizable quantum circuit functions differently than expected, posing as an "interesting surprise". He employs an example revolving around the Titanic dataset to illustrate how QSVM can be deployed. Using Pennylane to build a simple quantum kernel for scikit-learn's support vector classifier, the model predicts Titanic survivors based on age, gender, and class of boarding. The key take-away from this article is the resourceful merging of quantum computing elements with traditional machine learning, delivering scalable models with advanced possibilities.
https://towardsdatascience.com/a-simple-introduction-to-quantum-enhanced-svm-bee893a4377c
Fault-tolerant quantum computing will deliver the transformative promise of quantum computing (Part-I)
The series written by QC Design explores the transition from Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum (NISQ) to Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computing (FTQC), positioning FTQC as an essential breakthrough that can deliver the transformative potential of quantum computing. Creating reliable quantum circuits despite qubit and gate imperfections, FTQC could enable the operationalization of transformational applications like accelerated drug development, next-gen battery materials, and novel methods for fertilizer making and carbon capture. Notably, these transformative applications require quantum circuits with millions of gates, a capacity achievable only through FTQC. Recent research from academic institutions, hardware builders like Google and Microsoft, and teams exploring usage, like BASF SE and Mercedes-Benz, details the precise quantum requirements for these applications. The series underscores that bridging the gap from current NISQ limitations to FTQC potential is critical for the future of quantum computing.
https://www.qc.design/news/ftqc-10000x
Quantum Exponential Group Opens New European Headquarters in Copenhagen
Quantum Exponential Group plc is establishing its European entity and opening its headquarters in Copenhagen, Denmark's Quantum Deep Tech Lab. The location marks proximity to key quantum players such as the Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Foundry, the Danish NATO Centre for Quantum Technology, and the Niels Bohr Institute. CEO of Quantum Exponential Group, Steve Metcalfe, sees the move as an opportunity for broad investment and support of the quantum landscape, aligning with their strategic vision. Denmark's recognition in the global quantum ecosystem, and the increasing acknowledgement of quantum technology by governments and corporations, were noted by Metcalfe as significant aspects of this relocation. Stuart Woods, the company's COO and Strategy Officer, designates Denmark as an ideal hub for advancing quantum technology which has major implications for numerous sectors. The move signifies a major development in the growth of quantum technology.
Japan's Fujitsu, Riken develop second quantum computer
Japanese technology giant Fujitsu and research institute Riken have developed Japan's second quantum computer, with a configuration of 64 quantum bits (qubits). This advancement will be integrated with a 40 qubit quantum computer simulator to rectify errors obstructing accurate results. Fujitsu's quantum laboratory leader, Shintaro Sato, acknowledged that quantum computing still has a way to go but marked this as an initial step towards progress. The race in quantum technology spans globally, with investments from companies like IBM and Alphabet. IBM in 2022 launched a 433 qubit quantum computer. The quantum computing sphere continues to evolve at a fast pace across the world, shaping the future of advanced technology.
https://www.reuters.com/technology/japans-fujitsu-riken-develop-second-quantum-computer-2023-10-05/
Paper: Quantum algorithms: A survey of applications and end-to-end complexities
A paper titled "Quantum Algorithms: A Survey of Applications and End-to-End Complexities" has been submitted by Alexander M. Dalzell and 12 co-authors. It outlines future applications of quantum computing, spanning from quantum chemistry to machine learning, and breakdowns complexities of their underlying algorithmic components. The researchers scrutinize unique challenges in quantum computing, including error correction and fault tolerance while meticulously drawing comparisons to existing classical methods to determine potential quantum speedups. The paper is designed in a wiki-like modular structure, offering a comprehensive navigation system. Despite potential technological barriers, it underscores the significant potential of quantum algorithms in a variety of application areas. The key takeaway is an in-depth understanding of how the complexities of quantum algorithms could potentially influence various industries in the future.