IBM, a pioneer in the realm of quantum computing, is setting its sights on an astonishing milestone: the creation of a 100,000-qubit quantum machine within the next decade. This audacious endeavor was announced at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, where IBM revealed its collaboration with the University of Tokyo and the University of Chicago on this monumental $100 million project.
Quantum computing, unlike classical computing, leverages the principles of quantum physics to store data and perform computational tasks that were once inconceivable. While classical computers rely on binary systems of zeros and ones, quantum computers operate using quantum bits, or qubits, as their fundamental unit of memory.
IBM’s 433-qubit Osprey quantum processor marked a significant achievement, but the goal now is to construct a quantum machine with 100,000 qubits. This endeavor represents a fusion of “the best classical supercomputers” and aims to facilitate groundbreaking discoveries in diverse fields such as pharmacology, fertilizer production, and battery performance.
Quantum computing, despite its immense potential, faces challenges due to its susceptibility to interference, often referred to as “noise.” The path to harnessing the full power of quantum computing involves increasing the number of qubits, which can mitigate these challenges.
IBM is not alone in this pursuit. Google has set its sights on achieving a million qubits by the decade’s end, while PsiQuantum in Palo Alto contemplates a similar venture. Maryland-based IonQ aspires to develop a system comprising 1,024 “logical qubits” by 2028, each constructed from a circuit of 13 physical qubits designed for error correction.
IBM’s quantum computing roadmap reveals that its systems can scale up to 5,000 qubits. To surpass this threshold and delve into the realm of 100,000 qubits, innovative technology is imperative, thus emphasizing the role of collaborative efforts with renowned universities.
IBM has been actively working to democratize quantum computing, making its quantum processors accessible to academic researchers worldwide. These quantum machines are accessible via cloud services through user-friendly interfaces, enabling researchers to engage in quantum experiments with minimal technical expertise. Presently, approximately 2,000 research articles have been authored based on experiments conducted using IBM’s quantum devices.
The pursuit of a 100,000-qubit quantum computer exemplifies IBM’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of technology and scientific discovery, propelling us closer to a future where quantum computing transforms industries and drives innovation to unprecedented heights.
