The Week in Quantum Computing - September 2nd 2024 - Google breakseven on error correction! - MIT, Rigetti and NSF Funds
Issue #199
Now, this week main story is Google’s paper on error correction. What are really the implications?
For the first time, we've seen the proper threshold on physical to logical. More physical qubits now lead to better error correction without adding extra noise. This experiment achieved a physical-to-logical qubit ratio of 97:1 with their distance-7 surface code, a significant milestone that takes us beyond mere theory and into the realm of tangible progress. The resulting logical qubit after the map performs better than its parts (the underlying physical qubits). All this, in real hardware.
Although these are only memory qubits, and the scalability issue remains far from resolved—requiring hundreds of logical qubits before we can run useful quantum algorithms—the implications are massive. Superconducting qubits are showing they might be the key to unlocking practical quantum computing. The paper was authored by over 200 researchers.
For the first time, we've seen the "more, the merrier" principle truly work in quantum systems—more physical qubits now lead to better error correction without piling on extra noise. This experiment achieved a physical-to-logical qubit ratio of 97:1 with their distance-7 surface code, a significant milestone that takes us beyond mere theory and into the realm of tangible progress. Although these are only memory qubits, and the scalability issue remains far from resolved—requiring hundreds of logical qubits before we can run useful quantum algorithms—the implications are massive.
This achievement, where the logical qubit outperforms even the best physical qubit used in its creation, marks a world-first in the field. It highlights the real, functional potential of quantum error correction, proving it's no longer just a concept but a working reality. Superconducting qubits are showing they might be the key to unlocking practical quantum computing. The paper, authored by over 200 researchers,
Laurent from Alice & Bob explains it extremely well on his Linkedin post.
Want to talk about error correction, quantum computing for finance, what financial institutions are doing to avoid the Y2Q and how Rock n’Roll can save quantum? Join us on QuantumTech this September!
(By the way, if you are a drummer, in quantum and in London. I NEED TO SPEAK WITH YOU)
Remeber, the quantum meme competition is still on. I’ve got a few dozen entries but you can still win the big prize! Send me your quantum memes and you will get a hug! (or even better, one of the prizes I explained here)
Quick Recap
MIT researchers have developed a new quantum factoring algorithm that merges the speed of Oded Regev's recent advancements with the memory efficiency of Peter Shor's 1994 algorithm. This innovation, which requires fewer qubits and is more tolerant to quantum noise, could make quantum factoring more practical and significantly impact cryptography by potentially breaking RSA encryption. UC Riverside's Peng Wei and his team have created a two-dimensional interface superconductor by combining trigonal tellurium and gold, which could enhance qubit stability and robustness, addressing current quantum computer error issues. Duke University has received a $30 million grant from The Duke Endowment to support its Elevating Duke Computing program, aimed at advancing research in computing, AI, and machine learning. Researchers Pablo Bermejo and colleagues have shown that Quantum Convolutional Neural Networks (QCNNs) can be efficiently simulated using classical algorithms, suggesting the need for more complex datasets in Quantum Machine Learning. Quantum Machines and Bluefors have extended their OEM agreement to integrate QCage qubit chip holders into Bluefors' cryogenic systems, enhancing research efficiency. Amazon Braket has integrated Rigetti Computing's latest 84-qubit superconducting processor, Ankaa-2, into its platform.
Google Quantum AI has achieved significant milestones in quantum error correction, demonstrating two surface code memories operating below the critical error threshold, suggesting the potential for scalable fault-tolerant quantum algorithms.
The Week in Quantum Computing
Toward a code-breaking quantum computer
MIT researchers, led by Vinod Vaikuntanathan and graduate student Seyoon Ragavan, have developed a new quantum factoring algorithm that combines the speed of Oded Regev's recent improvement with the memory efficiency of Peter Shor's original 1994 algorithm. This breakthrough requires fewer qubits and has a higher tolerance to quantum noise, making it more feasible for practical implementation. The research, to be presented at the 2024 International Cryptology Conference, could significantly impact cryptography by making quantum factoring more practical. Vaikuntanathan emphasized the potential of this work to bring us closer to a practical quantum computer capable of breaking RSA encryption.
https://news.mit.edu/2024/toward-code-breaking-quantum-computer-0823
UC Riverside team develops new superconductor material for quantum computing
A UC Riverside research team, led by physicist Peng Wei, has developed a two-dimensional interface superconductor by combining trigonal tellurium and gold. This new material shows potential for more reliable quantum information processing, addressing current quantum computer error issues. The interface superconductor exhibits quantum states with well-defined spin polarization, enhancing qubit stability and robustness. Wei highlighted that the energy of the spin in this material is six times more enhanced than in conventional superconductors, reducing decoherence risks. This breakthrough could lead to more scalable and reliable quantum computing components, potentially revolutionizing computing power and efficiency. "Our material could be a promising candidate for developing more scalable and reliable quantum computing components," Wei stated.
Paper: Quantum Convolutional Neural Networks are (Effectively) Classically Simulable
Researchers Pablo Bermejo, Paolo Braccia, Manuel S. Rudolph, Zoë Holmes, Lukasz Cincio, and M. Cerezo have demonstrated that Quantum Convolutional Neural Networks (QCNNs) can be efficiently simulated using classical algorithms. Their study reveals that QCNNs, when randomly initialized, operate on low-bodyness measurements and are often tested on "locally-easy" datasets. These datasets are easily classifiable by the information encoded in low-bodyness observables, making QCNNs' actions classically simulable. They successfully simulated QCNNs on up to 1024 qubits for phases of matter classification using Pauli shadows. The findings suggest that the perceived success of QCNNs may be due to the simplicity of benchmark problems, emphasizing the need for more complex datasets in Quantum Machine Learning (QML).
https://arxiv.org/abs/2408.12739v1
Quantum Machines Qubit Chip Holders Now Available Through Bluefors
Quantum Machines and Bluefors have announced an extended OEM agreement, making Quantum Machines' QCage qubit chip holders available through Bluefors' cryogenic measurement systems. This collaboration aims to streamline the integration process for quantum computing researchers, significantly reducing development time. The QCage, known for its high performance and minimal losses, will be pre-installed and verified in Bluefors' LD and XLDsl systems. Mikko Nurminen, Chief Sales Officer of Bluefors, emphasized the ease of integration, while Omri Shoshan, Chief Business Officer of Quantum Machines, highlighted the milestone in accelerating quantum research.
Amazon Braket launches the Rigetti Ankaa-2 superconducting device
Amazon Braket, AWS's quantum computing service, has integrated Rigetti Computing's latest 84-qubit superconducting processor, Ankaa-2, into its platform. Available in the US West (N. California) Region, Ankaa-2 offers continuous availability for executing quantum circuits, enhancing user convenience across time zones. This device improves upon the previous Aspen-M-3 family with faster gate operation times and higher median two-qubit gate fidelities. Ankaa-2 supports Braket Hybrid Jobs, providing a quantum-classical runtime environment with priority access and parametric compilation to boost performance. Researchers can also utilize Braket Pulse for advanced analog control.
US achieves superconductor breakthrough, creates new material for quantum leap
A team of US scientists has developed a novel superconductor material by combining trigonal tellurium with a gold thin film, potentially revolutionizing quantum computing. This new material, described as a "topological superconductor," exhibits zero electrical resistance and unique topological properties. Peng Wei, the lead researcher, emphasized its potential for creating scalable and reliable quantum computing components. The innovative combination resulted in a two-dimensional interface superconductor with enhanced spin energy, crucial for generating spin qubits. The team also constructed high-quality, low-loss microwave resonators, essential for quantum computers.
https://interestingengineering.com/science/us-achieves-superconductor-breakthrough-quantum-leap
Quantum error correction below the surface code threshold
Google Quantum AI and collaborators have achieved a significant milestone in quantum error correction, demonstrating two surface code memories operating below the critical error threshold. Utilizing a 72-qubit processor for a distance-5 code and a 105-qubit processor for a distance-7 code, they achieved a logical error rate suppression factor of 2.14±0.02 and an error rate of 0.143%±0.003% per cycle. The distance-7 code's logical memory outperformed its best physical qubit's lifetime by a factor of 2.4±0.3. Real-time decoding was maintained with an average latency of 63 µs. These advancements suggest the potential for scaling to meet the operational requirements of large-scale fault-tolerant quantum algorithms.
https://arxiv.org/html/2408.13687v1#abstract
Los Alamos team cracks the code on the bane of quantum machine learning algorithms
Los Alamos National Laboratory researchers, led by Marco Cerezo, have mathematically characterized the phenomenon of barren plateaus in variational quantum algorithms, a significant obstacle in quantum machine learning. This breakthrough, published in Nature Computational Science, provides a unified theory and guidelines to avoid these dead ends, which have hindered progress in quantum computing. Martin Larocca, a postdoc at Los Alamos, highlighted that their equation predicts barren plateaus and reveals that specialization in algorithms is crucial to bypassing them. This advancement is pivotal as quantum computers evolve from 65 qubits to over 1,000 qubits, removing a major challenge in the field. This research was conducted in collaboration with UC Davis, NC State University, and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.
https://discover.lanl.gov/news/0805-quantum-machine-learning/
UCLA receives $1 million NSF grant to accelerate commercialization of quantum technologies
UCLA has secured a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to expedite the commercialization of quantum technologies. The Quantum Sensing and Imaging Lab (Q-SAIL), led by physicist David Leibrandt, is one of five projects selected for the NSF's National Quantum Virtual Laboratory initiative. Collaborating with researchers from the University of Delaware, Caltech, and MIT, Q-SAIL aims to develop advanced quantum sensors using two-dimensional trapped-ion arrays. Companies Quantinuum and Infleqtion will provide technical expertise. Denise Caldwell, acting NSF Assistant Director, emphasized the initiative's goal to democratize access to quantum research infrastructure.
Paper: ReCon: Reconfiguring Analog Rydberg Atom Quantum Computers for Quantum Generative Adversarial Networks
Researchers Nicholas S. DiBrita, Daniel Leeds, Yuqian Huo, Jason Ludmir, and Tirthak Patel have introduced ReCon, a pioneering approach to implementing quantum Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) on analog Rydberg atom quantum computers. Their study, set to appear in the ICCAD 2024 proceedings, demonstrates a 33% improvement in image quality, as measured by the Frechet Inception Distance (FID), compared to existing methods using superconducting-qubit technology. This breakthrough leverages the unique properties of Rydberg atom quantum computers, such as reconfigurable qubit positions and multi-qubit operations
https://arxiv.org/abs/2408.13389v1
600 scientists, 50 startups working in quantum tech in India: Ajai Chowdhury
Ajai Chowdhury, Chairman of the Mission Governing Board for India's National Quantum Mission, announced that approximately 600 scientists and 50 startups are engaged in quantum technology in India. Speaking at the inaugural International Conference on Quantum Communication, Measurement, and Computing (QCMC 2024) hosted by IIT Madras, Chowdhury highlighted the mission's goal to establish four thematic parks focused on computing, communications, sensing, and materials. The mission has received 385 proposals and plans to fund 10 to 15 startups within three months. Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, emphasized the potential of quantum technologies to solve large-scale data and logistical problems more efficiently.
https://idrw.org/600-scientists-50-startups-working-in-quantum-tech-in-india-ajai-chowdhury/
InfinityQ Announces Collaborative Initiative with Siemens Energy Ventures to Leverage Quantum-Inspired Computing Solutions
InfinityQ Technology Inc. has announced a collaboration with Siemens Energy Ventures to utilize quantum-inspired computing solutions for accelerating the green energy transition. Leveraging InfinityQ's advanced optimization algorithms, the initiative aims to address complex combinatorial optimization problems in the energy sector. Nigel Gwilliam, Senior Key Expert at Siemens Energy, highlighted the partnership's potential to enhance capabilities and solve new optimization challenges. Bryan Drossman, Turbine Cost Manager at Siemens Energy, emphasized the project's role in improving process management and prediction accuracy.
Juniper Ventures makes security investment to evolve Juniper’s AI-Native Networking portfolio ahead of quantum computing threats
SUNNYVALE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Juniper Networks (NYSE: JNPR), a leader in secure, AI-Native Networking, today announced a strategic investment in Quantum Bridge Technologies , an industry leader in Distributed Symmetric Key Exchange (DSKE) for post-quantum cryptography (PQC) networks. This investment showcases Juniper’s commitment to advancing quantum-safe communications by enabling Quantum Bridge to further scale its DSKE solution. To further inform ongoing research and product development in the field, the two companies will collaborate through Juniper Beyond Labs ' pathfinding projects.
The U.K.’s quantum advantage is about to pay off but a government spending review risks squandering it
The U.K.'s quantum computing sector, bolstered by a £1 billion national strategy launched in 2013, is poised for significant economic impact, potentially adding £1.3 trillion to global GDP. Companies like Nu Quantum, founded by Carmen Palacios-Berraquero, are leading this charge. In 2023, EMEA quantum startups raised $781 million, significantly outpacing the U.S.'s $240 million. Despite a further £2.5 billion pledge by the Conservative government, deployment is pending due to a spending review. The new Labour government faces a critical decision: continue investing to capitalize on this momentum or risk stalling progress.
DRDO’s young scientists complete end-to-end testing of 6-qubit quantum processor based on superconducting circuit technology
DRDO's Young Scientists Laboratory for Quantum Technologies (DYSL-QT) in Pune, in collaboration with Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) Mumbai and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), has successfully completed end-to-end testing of a 6-qubit quantum processor based on superconducting circuit technology. The testing, conducted at TIFR’s Colaba campus, involved submitting a quantum circuit via a cloud-based interface, executing it on the quantum hardware, and updating the interface with results. The qubits were designed and fabricated at TIFR, featuring a novel ring-resonator design. The team is now optimizing system performance and plans to scale up the number of qubits, aiming to enhance education, research, and commercial applications.
https://pib.gov.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=2049356
Duke-led Team Begins Plans for an Enormous 256-Qubit Quantum Computer
A Duke-led team, backed by a $1 million NSF grant, is embarking on a groundbreaking project to develop a 256-qubit quantum computer. This initiative, part of the NSF’s National Quantum Virtual Laboratory (NQVL) program, aims to surpass classical computing capabilities for various scientific applications. The project builds on the Software-Tailored Architectures for Quantum co-design (STAQ) project, which received $32 million in funding since 2018. Key collaborators include the University of Chicago, North Carolina State University, and Tufts University. Ken Brown, leading the QACTI program, aims to start constructing the 256-qubit machine by 2026. This effort signifies a major step in advancing U.S. quantum infrastructure and workforce development.
https://pratt.duke.edu/news/duke-nqvl-grant/
Unveiling Q-Day: How quantum computing could revolutionise (and disrupt) our digital world
"Unveiling Q-Day" explores the transformative potential of quantum computing on global challenges. The article suggests that quantum advancements could overshadow issues like geopolitical unrest, climate change, and the impact of social media. It implies that quantum technology might redefine our digital landscape, presenting both revolutionary opportunities and disruptive risks.
Quantinuum Unveils Ambitious Quantum Computing Roadmap at Quantum World Congress, Partners with Microsoft and JPMorganChase
Quantinuum, a pioneer in trapped ion quantum computing, will reveal its expanded roadmap at the Quantum World Congress in mid-September. The company’s H2-1 system, featuring 56 qubits, is no longer classically simulatable. CEO Rajeeb Hazra emphasized the transition from discovery to acceleration, aiming for fault-tolerant quantum computing. Recent collaborations include work on error correction with Microsoft, QAOA speed-up with JPMorganChase and Argonne National Laboratory, and partnerships with RIKEN, Singapore, and STFC Hartree Center. Quantinuum’s development of the quantum charge-coupled device (QCCD) architecture and the Nexus platform are key advancements. Hazra highlighted the integration of classical compute, Gen-AI, and quantum in the next business cycle. Quantinuum is poised for significant growth and visibility.
https://www.hpcwire.com/2024/08/27/ceo-qa-acceleration-is-quantinuums-new-mantra-for-success/
South Korean quantum computing firm SDT has secured a 10 billion KRW
South Korean quantum computing firm SDT has secured a 10 billion KRW (approximately $7.5 million) Pre-IPO investment from Shinhan Venture Investment. SDT aims to raise a total of 20 billion KRW, with the remaining funds expected from global companies and existing shareholders. SDT specializes in equipment controlling quantum phenomena like entanglement and superposition. The company plans to commercialize quantum computers and establish a quantum computing data center in collaboration with the government and KISTI. Additionally, SDT is developing quantum processing units with Seoul National University and KIST. By 2026, SDT aims to develop a 64-qubit superconducting quantum computer.