In a groundbreaking achievement, a new quantum computer has set a new record in quantum supremacy, outpacing previous benchmarks by an astounding 100-fold. The 56-qubit H2-1 quantum computer, developed by Quantinuum in collaboration with JPMorgan, Caltech, and Argonne National Laboratory, has redefined the possibilities in the quantum computing landscape.
This quantum computer achieved a linear cross entropy benchmark (XEB) score of approximately 0.35. This metric measures the accuracy of a quantum computer's output, with the new score indicating that the H2-1 can produce error-free results 35% of the time. This is a significant improvement over Google's Sycamore machine, which in 2019 recorded an XEB score of about 0.002 using 53 superconducting qubits.
"The new quantum computer record smashes Google's quantum computer supremacy by 100 fold."
The new System Model H2 is now the first, and only, quantum computer in the world creating and computing with high reliability logical error corrected qubits."https://t.co/FixkGFYxBw pic.twitter.com/4LqP7qx04c
— BlueJ (@BlueJ11274903) July 13, 2024
The H2-1’s advancements not only surpass previous records but also demonstrate remarkable efficiency. It consumes 30,000 times less power than its predecessors, marking a significant leap towards practical and sustainable quantum computing. This power efficiency is crucial as it brings the technology closer to being viable for widespread use in solving complex problems that classical computers cannot handle.
The significance of this achievement is highlighted by the historical context of quantum supremacy. In 2019, Google's Sycamore quantum computer made headlines by performing a calculation in 200 seconds that would have taken the world's fastest supercomputer 10,000 years. Quantinuum’s new machine, with its higher fidelity and efficiency, not only surpasses this milestone but also sets a new standard for the industry.
"A quantum computer will allow us to create a new material to solve for Alzheimer's. Carbon sequestration is for 70 years something that we have not done, and the likelihood is within the next 3-7 years this will be solved"
— Ilyas Khan (@illyitk)https://t.co/UvYzKjSocl pic.twitter.com/MAcdSapjyF— Dulwich Quantum Computing (@DulwichQuantum) July 24, 2024
Researchers are particularly excited about the potential applications of such powerful quantum computers. From cryptography to complex simulations in physics and chemistry, the ability to perform vast calculations at unprecedented speeds opens new frontiers in various scientific fields. Quantum computers operate using the principles of quantum mechanics, allowing them to process multiple calculations simultaneously through entanglement and superposition, which is fundamentally different from the sequential processing of classical computers .
The development of the H2-1 also underscores the importance of collaboration in advancing quantum technology. The partnership between Quantinuum, JPMorgan, Caltech, and Argonne National Laboratory exemplifies the multidisciplinary efforts required to push the boundaries of computing. This collaborative approach is expected to continue driving significant innovations in the field.
As the race for quantum supremacy heats up, other tech giants and research institutions are also making strides. The ongoing competition is likely to accelerate advancements, making quantum computing more accessible and practical for real-world applications. The future of computing, powered by quantum technologies, promises to transform industries and solve problems that were previously deemed intractable.
The achievement of Quantinuum’s H2-1 quantum computer not only sets a new benchmark but also heralds a new era in computational power and efficiency. As researchers continue to improve the technology, the day when quantum computers become a staple tool in scientific and industrial applications seems closer than ever.
If I only got 35% of my answers right on a math quiz in school, I would have failed miserably.