Japanese Researchers Develop Optical Quantum Computer
A team of researchers, including members from the Riken research institute and Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp. (NTT), has successfully developed an optical quantum computer. This breakthrough has the potential to significantly reduce the size of next-generation computers while enabling even faster calculations.
The new quantum computer utilizes the principles of quantum mechanics and is composed of quantum bits, or qubits. It is capable of performing a vast range of complex calculations simultaneously, making it ideal for applications in artificial intelligence research.
The Riken team previously developed a domestic quantum computer with 64 qubits. The new optical quantum computer, however, represents a significant leap forward with its ability to accommodate approximately 100 different figures for simultaneous calculations. This capability is equivalent to a superconductivity-based quantum computer with 1,000 qubits.
One of the key challenges in developing quantum computers has been reducing their size to accommodate more qubits. The Riken team's innovative approach utilizes light as qubits, enabling them to pack a large number of qubits into a single machine without requiring a massive framework.
Furthermore, the new quantum computer is compatible with neural network calculations, mimicking the connections found in human cranial nerves. This compatibility is expected to contribute to advancements in AI research and energy conservation during operation.
Professor Akira Furusawa, team leader and quantum computing professor at the University of Tokyo, expressed his belief that the optical method will pave the way for the widespread adoption of quantum computers.
The team's groundbreaking achievement opens up exciting possibilities for the future of computing, with potential applications in various fields, including artificial intelligence, drug discovery, and materials science.