Welcome to the November edition of QURECA’s monthly newsletter! As we embrace the brisk winds and vibrant foliage of autumn, let’s explore the evolving landscape of quantum technologies together. This month, we invite you to savour the richness of innovation like a warm cup of mulled cider, as we uncover how quantum advancements are reshaping our world. Join us on this journey through cutting-edge updates and transformative insights, where each discovery intertwines more profoundly than the last. Stay curious, stay inspired, and let’s continue to unravel the quantum mysteries together!
Weekly News highlights
Here’s a recap on our weekly LinkedIn news updates from November in case you missed any!
U.S. CBO propose quantum budget revamp
(Friday, 1st November) The Congressional Budget Office has reviewed the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act, proposing $1.8 billion over five years to boost U.S. quantum research and development. This funding aims to enhance the capabilities of agencies like the DOE, NSF, NIST, and NASA in quantum information science by supporting research centres, workforce training, and technology testbeds. The bill, if passed, intends to secure the U.S.’s leadership in the global quantum field without imposing new mandates. Read more: hr6213.pdf
Luna launch brings quantum advantage closer to end-users
(Monday, 4th November) Aqarios launched Luna, a quantum computing platform aimed at democratising access to quantum computing applications for businesses. The platform simplifies quantum application development and is integrated with various tools and services, including over 40 ready-to-use optimisation scenarios and 30 specialised algorithms, to enhance usability for companies of all technical levels. Luna also integrates with Amazon Braket and Q-CTRL’s Black Opal software, providing access to numerous backends and error suppression software. Read more and gain access here: https://aqarios.com/aqarios-luna-quantum-platform-launch/
IonQ set to acquire Qubitekk
(Wednesday, 6th November) IonQ announced it will acquire Qubitekk, including its team, technology, projects and patented portfolio, with an aim to close the deal within the next 6 months. This move will integrate Qubitekk’s quantum network security technologies and boost IonQ’s market presence, furthering development in quantum communications. Read more: https://ionq.com/news/ionq-to-acquire-qubitekk-furthering-leadership-in-quantum-networking
Ericsson announce major Canadian quantum investment
(Thursday, 7th November) Ericsson and the Canadian government are expanding their collaboration with a CAD $634.8 million investment to develop next-gen quantum communication and AI-powered network management technologies. The new proposal includes facility expansion plans for Ericsson’s Quantum Research Hub in Montreal, creating hundreds of jobs and bolstering partnership with its more than 20 Canadian post-secondary institutions. Read more: https://www.ericsson.com/en/press-releases/6/2024/ericsson-and-government-of-canada-enhance-canadas-position
Nu Quantum and White Rabbit advance quantum networking devices
(Thursday, 7th November) Nu Quantum has joined CERN-born White Rabbit as the consortium’s first quantum industry partner and plans to integrate WR’s sub-nanosecond-accurate synchronisation technology with its Quantum Networking Unit in order to support data centre-scale quantum networks through reconfigurable entanglement links. Read more: https://www.nu-quantum.com/news/nu-quantum-announces-collaboration-with-cern-to-adopt-white-rabbit-timing-technology-to-enable-data-centre-scale-quantum-computing-networks
IonQ and imec in new PICs partnership
(Thursday, 7th November) IonQ is collaborating with imec to develop next-generation photonic integrated circuits for quantum computing with aims to reduce costs, increase qubit counts, and boost reliability through advanced chip-scale technologies. Read more: https://investors.ionq.com/news/news-details/2024/IonQ-to-Increase-Performance-and-Scale-of-Quantum-Computers-with-Photonic-Integrated-Circuits-in-Collaboration-with-imec/default.aspx
World’s first general purpose cloud-accessible optical quantum computer
(Monday, 11th November) RIKEN, NTT, and Fixstars Amplify Inc. announced the launch of the world’s first general-purpose optical quantum computer featuring high-speed processing of several terahertz (THz). The new measurement-induced analogue design relates more to a simulator with adjustable input parameters and efficient computation through time-multiplexed entanglement. What does this mean? The research team have designed a way to encode information in multiple physical parameters as well as use non-destructive measurement techniques to enable efficient multi-step circuit operations. While cloud access is currently limited to eligible users-only through the joint research agreement, future wider access is hoped to bolster Japan’s quantum ecosystem and international competitiveness. Read more: https://thequantuminsider.com/2024/11/11/riken-ntt-and-amplify-inc-introduce-general-purpose-quantum-computer/
New Quantinuum partnership boost Qatar’s quantum efforts
(Tuesday, 12th November) Quantinuum have partnered with the Qatar Center for Quantum Computing, Qatar’s first dedicate quantum research centre, based within Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s College of Science and Engineering, to permit cloud access to their advanced trapped ion quantum computers for research in quantum chemistry, machine learning, and cybersecurity. Read more: https://www.hbku.edu.qa/en/news/quantum-computing-partnership-with-quantinuum
New IQM roadmap highlights 2030 FTQC
(Wednesday, 13th November) IQM announced their new 12-year roadmap with a focus on fault-tolerant quantum computing by 2030. Read more: https://www.meetiqm.com/newsroom/press-releases/iqm-quantum-computers-unveils-development-roadmap-focused-on-fault-tolerant-quantum-computing-by-2030
MIT to accelerate key readout technologies for U.S. DAF
(Thursday, 14th November) Atlantic Quantum, alongside MIT’s Coherent Quantum Electronics group, received a USD $1.8 million Phase II STTR grant from AFWERX to develop utility-scale superconducting quantum computers for the U.S. @Department of Air Force. The grant will allow validation of key quantum-limited amplifier and readout technologies. It also leverages new streamlined SBIR/STTR processes initiated by the Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX aimed at reducing broadening the pool of potential applicants and reducing bureaucratic overhead through ongoing improvements in contract execution. Read more: https://www.atlantic-quantum.com/news/atlantic-quantum-afrl-20092023-2rsdz
First Mechanical Qubit
(Thursday, 14th November) ETH Zurich has developed the first mechanical qubit with a 200-microsecond coherence time, double that of superconducting qubits. This novel mechanical qubit, combining a mechanical oscillator with a superconducting qubit, offers simpler usage and a longer lifespan than traditional virtual qubits. This advancement could overcome major obstacles in quantum computing and sensing applications. Read more: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adr2464
IQM and Volkswagen show quantum-enhanced battery simulations
(Friday, 15th November) Findings from a recent Volkswagen and IQM study reveals a promising hybrid quantum-classical approach to enhance electric car battery simulation using Auxiliary-field Quantum Monte Carlo methods, offering improvements with fewer computational resources required. Read more: https://www.meetiqm.com/newsroom/press-releases/volkswagen-and-iqm-quantum-computers-release-study-on-battery-simulation
ORNL and IQM Resonance push worldwide end-user access
(Monday, 18th November) Oak Ridge National Laboratory adds IQM Resonance to its quantum computing programme, offering its more than 400 users worldwide cloud access to IQM’s QPUs – Crystal, a square-lattice connected, and Star, a unique star topology with a central resonator – to promote end-user applications. Read more: https://www.meetiqm.com/newsroom/press-releases/oak-ridge-national-laboratory-adds-iqm-resonance-quantum-cloud-service-to-its-quantum-computing-user-program
Australia announces new defence tech funding
(Monday, 18th November) The Australia Federal Government have announced AUD $60 million in defence grants for quantum and counter disinformation tech. The Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator’s Emerging and Disruptive Technologies programme have granted funds to 21 projects to boost defence capabilities through next gen-tech. Read more: https://www.aumanufacturing.com.au/60m-in-defence-quantum-technology-grants-announced
Unforgeable quantum tokens demonstrated over fiber network
(Monday, 18th November) In a world first, Quantinuum and Mitsui have successfully tested unforgeable quantum tokens over a 10km fiber network using off-the-shelf hardware provided by NEC, marking a significant step in quantum-enhanced financial security. Read more: https://www.quantinuum.com/press-releases/quantinuum-together-with-mitsui-advance-unforgeable-quantum-tokens-over-fibre-network-in-first-ever-trial
QC startup hits the ground running
(Tuesday, 19th November) Lightsynq, a startup developing multi-device optical interconnects to help scale quantum computing by linking small-scale devices into a full-scale system, have recently secured USD $18 million in Series A funding. They recently demonstrated the world’s first quantum memory-enhanced link using diamond colour centres technology and plan to work closely with leading QC companies to implement their prototypes for effective scaling. Read more: https://quantumzeitgeist.com/lightsynq-unveils-quantum-interconnects-to-scale-up-quantum-computing/
Turkey’s First Quantum Computer
(Wednesday, 20th November) Turkey’s first quantum computer is set to launch at TOBB University of Economics and Technology. This system will bolster fields like AI, defence, and data security through enhanced computational power. The event underscores Turkey’s ambition to lead in quantum technology, featuring key figures including Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz. The new quantum computer is expected to significantly enhance the nation’s global IT competitiveness. Read more: https://www.turkiyetoday.com/business/turkiyes-quantum-leap-first-computer-to-go-live-81724/
AI-powered Quantum Decoder
(Wednesday, 20th November) Google DeepMind’s AlphaQubit, an advanced AI-powered quantum decoder, has demonstrated unprecedented accuracy in error detection in quantum computers, making 6% fewer errors than tensor networks methods in the largest Sycamore experiments. Published in Nature, this collaboration between Google DeepMind and Quantum AI significantly advances the reliability and scalability of quantum computing by effectively identifying and correcting quantum errors. Read more: https://siliconangle.com/2024/11/20/google-deepminds-alphaqubit-tackles-quantum-error-detection-unprecedented-accuracy/
Rigetti Completes Latest Funding Round
(Tuesday, 26th November) Rigetti Computing completed a USD $100 million equity offering to fuel its superconducting quantum computing efforts. This capital will support working capital, capital expenditures, and general corporate activities, aiming to improve qubit gate fidelity and scalability. Read more: https://quantumzeitgeist.com/rigetti-completes-100-million-equity-offering-for-quantum-computing/
Now you’re all caught up with our weekly news updates, let’s look at some other interesting news from around the world of quantum technologies that we haven’t yet covered!
Other big news!
Japan launches quantum competition to address societal challenges
(Friday, 1st November) Japan’s NEDO has announced a competition challenging participants to apply quantum computing to solve societal issues such as natural disasters and aging. With a recruitment period open until December 13, the contest seeks innovative thinkers across disciplines, offering 200 million yen in prize money. Winners for each of the three selected societal problems will receive at least 20 million yen. The contest starts in March 2025, with final judgments in August 2026. For more details, visit https://qc-challenge.nedo.go.jp/
SemiQon and SDT collaborate to advance the global quantum computing market
(Thursday, 7th November) SemiQon and SDT have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance quantum computing globally. They will construct a modular system that lowers production costs and enhances scalability. This collaboration leverages SemiQon’s expertise in silicon-based quantum processors and SDT’s precision measurement technology. The partnership aims to fast-track the commercialization and mass production of quantum computing, emphasising stability and scalability to push towards the million-qubit era. Read more: https://www.semiqon.tech/news-insights/semiqon-and-sdt-strategically-collaborate-to-advance-the-global-quantum-computing-market
India’s industry leaders back quantum revolution
(Monday, 11th November) A survey by Primus Partners reveals that 85% of industry leaders in India advocate for significant investments in quantum computing. The focus is on enhancing sectors like AI, cybersecurity, and healthcare. Industry-wide support highlights the need for more R&D, skilled workforce development, and cross-sector collaboration to overcome challenges like high R&D costs and talent shortages. Leaders emphasise quantum computing’s potential to revolutionise multiple industries and strengthen national security and economic growth. Read more: https://www.passionateinmarketing.com/indias-quantum-leap-with-85-of-industry-leaders-calling-for-major-investments-in-quantum-computing-reports-primus-partners/
Quantum Computing Inc receives first TFLN foundry order
(Wednesday, 13th November) Quantum Computing Inc. received its first order for its TFLN photonic chip foundry from an Asian research institute. This order confirms the demand for QCi’s thin film lithium niobate (TFLN) technology, crucial for advanced photonic integrated circuits and nanophotonic devices. The chips are slated for delivery by Q1 2025, with QCi also providing in-house design services. This milestone underlines QCi’s role in the future of telecom and quantum technologies. Read more: https://quantumcomputinginc.com/news/press-releases/quantum-computing-inc.-secures-first-order-for-tfln-photonic-chip-foundry
Artificial intelligence for quantum computing
(Thursday, 14th November) A team of researchers collaborated to publish a review article discussing how advancements in artificial intelligence are impacting quantum computing. AI’s ability to handle complex, high-dimensional data makes it ideal for addressing the technical challenges in QC, which involves counterintuitive concepts and substantial mathematical complexity. The paper reviews current AI techniques that are enhancing QC across various aspects, including hardware design and application development. It also explores potential future opportunities and challenges in integrating AI with QC to accelerate progress in the field. Read more: https://arxiv.org/abs/2411.09131
NVIDIA and Google accelerating quantum computing design
(Monday, 18th November) NVIDIA is collaborating with Google Quantum AI to enhance quantum processor designs using the NVIDIA CUDA-Q platform for simulations. This partnership enables large-scale dynamical simulations of quantum device physics, addressing the critical issue of noise in quantum systems. By leveraging NVIDIA’s powerful Eos supercomputer and advanced GPU technology, these simulations can be executed rapidly, significantly accelerating the development and scalability of Google’s quantum computing technologies. Read more: https://nvidianews.nvidia.com/news/nvidia-supercharges-google-quantum-processor-design-with-simulation-of-quantum-device-physics
Quantinuum launches all-in-one QC platform, Nexus
(Tuesday, 19th November) Quantinuum has launched Nexus, an all-in-one quantum computing platform. Nexus streamlines the management, storage, and execution of quantum workflows, fully integrating with Quantinuum’s hardware and software. Initially available to internal researchers, Nexus has expanded to include external users from diverse sectors, enhancing research and scientific discovery across various applications. Read more: https://www.quantinuum.com/blog/announcing-the-launch-of-quantinuum-nexus-our-all-in-one-quantum-computing-platform
QuEra launch Apollo programme
(Tuesday, 19th November) QuEra Computing has launched a full-stack quantum algorithm co-design programme aimed at maximising the use of quantum computing resources through collaboration with businesses and research institutions. This program integrates hardware, software, and application efforts to optimise each quantum operation. Participants in the programme will engage in phases that include needs assessment, co-designing hardware and algorithms, simulation, and early access to cutting-edge technology, pushing the boundaries of quantum computing capabilities. Read more: https://www.quera.com/press-releases/quera-launches-full-stack-quantum-algorithm-co-design-program-to-maximize-quantum-computing-potential
Groundbreaking new proteomics platform to see new chip production process
(Wednesday, 20th November) Quantum-Si and SkyWater Technology are expanding their partnership to develop a new chip production process for Quantum-Si’s Proteus platform, aimed at revolutionising proteomics. This collaboration builds on their successful Platinum platform, focusing on producing consumables for large-scale, accurate protein sequencing. This partnership combines Quantum-Si’s biotechnology expertise with SkyWater’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, aiming to advance scientific discovery in disease diagnostics and treatment. Read more: https://www.skywatertechnology.com/quantum-si-expands-collaboration-with-skywater-to-develop-new-chip-production-process-critical-for-groundbreaking-new-proteomics-platform/
Toshiba achieve new two-qubit gate fidelity with innovative new device
(Thursday, 21st November) Toshiba has developed a new Double-Transmon Coupler for superconducting quantum computers, achieving a record 99.90% fidelity in two-qubit gates. This technology significantly reduces residual coupling issues, enhances coherence time, and speeds up gate execution. It simplifies the production of stable, fixed-frequency transmon qubits, crucial for scaling future quantum computing designs. Read more: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241121110821/en/Toshibas-Proposed-Double-Transmon-Coupler-for-Superconducting-Quantum-Computers-Achieves-World-Class-Two-Qubit-Gate-Performance
IBM and Pasqal project bring multiple computer modalities together
(Thursday, 21st November) IBM and Pasqal are expanding their quantum-centric supercomputing initiative, aiming to integrate quantum and classical computing into a unified framework. This collaboration involves developing a programming model that combines IBM’s superconducting quantum computers with Pasqal’s neutral atom devices as well as HPC resources including CPUs and GPUs, enhancing high-performance computing workflows and promoting broader adoption of quantum technologies. Read more: https://newsroom.ibm.com/2024-11-21-ibm-and-pasqal-plan-to-expand-quantum-centric-supercomputing-initiative
Amazon launch Quantum Embark Program
(Friday, 22nd November) AWS has launched the Quantum Embark Program, an initiative designed to prepare businesses for the integration of quantum computing. The programme offers expert-led guidance through three modules: Use Case Discovery, Technical Enablement, and Deep Dive. These modules aim to help participants understand quantum computing’s relevance, get hands-on experience, and deepen their practical expertise in targeted applications. The programme promises no long-term commitments and allows for quick start-up, positioning businesses to strategically approach quantum computing. Read more: https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/quantum-computing/aws-announces-the-quantum-embark-program-to-help-customers-get-ready-for-quantum-computing/
Chicago’s quantum campus gets controversial green light
(Saturday, 23rd November) The Chicago Plan Commission approved the construction of a quantum computing research park on Chicago’s South Side, previously the U.S. Steel South Works site. This USD $500 million project, led by developers Related Midwest and CRG, and anchored by PsiQuantum, aims to transform the area into a tech hub, attracting substantial investment and creating new jobs. Community responses are mixed, with some raising concerns about the project’s rapid development and potential environmental impact. Read more: https://thequantuminsider.com/2024/11/23/quantum-computer-park-clears-key-hurdle-on-chicagos-south-side-with-plan-commission-vote/
Taiwan receives first full-stack quantum computer
(Monday, 25th November) The Taiwan Semiconductor Research Institute has acquired its first full-stack superconducting quantum computer from IQM, aiming to boost Taiwan’s quantum computing capabilities. This strategic move is set to enhance research and educational endeavours in Taiwan, while fostering growth in the semiconductor and quantum computing sectors. The delivery and installation of the 5-qubit IQM Spark quantum computer are planned for the second quarter of 2025. Read more: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241125373890/en/Taiwan-Semiconductor-Research-Institute-Selects-IQM-Spark-Quantum-Computer-to-Boost-Research
Alice & Bob announce industry-first logical qubit emulator
(Tuesday, 26th November) Alice & Bob has launched Felis 1.0, a groundbreaking quantum emulator. Felis is designed to simulate the behaviour of logical qubits and includes features for tuning error rates and abstracting error correction to simplify the development of quantum algorithms. The emulator will enable researchers to experiment with high-quality qubits and explore quantum error correction methods using cat qubits, which are central to improving hardware error rates and accelerating the development of fault-tolerant quantum computers. The collaboration also aims to make these advanced quantum computing tools widely accessible through IBM Qiskit and Classiq’s platform, enhancing the capabilities of algorithm developers and researchers. Read more: https://alice-bob.com/newsroom/logical-qubit-emulator-felis-quantum-cloud-alice-bob/
World’s first fully optimised CMOS transistor for cryogenic conditions
(Tuesday, 26th November) SemiQon has released the first CMOS transistor optimised for cryogenic conditions, designed to enhance quantum computing’s scalability and reduce power consumption by 99.9%. This innovation enables significant reductions in heat dissipation, allowing for more efficient and compact setups in quantum computing systems and high-performance computing. It marks a significant step toward practical, large-scale quantum computing, expected to lower operational costs significantly. These transistors are slated for delivery to customers in 2025. Read more: https://www.semiqon.tech/news-insights/first-ever-cmos-transistor-fully-optimized-for-cryogenic-conditions-released-by-semiqon
Single-photon detectors for oncology applications
(Wednesday, 27th November) The University of Wollongong has secured funding for the LANTERN project to advance medical imaging and cancer treatment. Led by Dr Saree Alnaghy, the initiative will utilise quantum photon-counting detectors to enhance radiotherapy precision, especially for brain tumours. LANTERN aims to make high-quality cancer care more accessible and cost-effective by integrating with existing radiotherapy machines, promoting equitable healthcare solutions, and aligning with Australia’s National Quantum Strategy. Read more: https://www.uow.edu.au/media/2024/quantum-technology-to-transform-medical-imaging-and-cancer-treatment.php
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