China recently achieved a domestic milestone in quantum computing with the launch of the ‘Tianyan-504’ superconducting quantum computer, equipped with the 504-qubit ‘Xiaohong’ chip.
The quantum computer, developed collaboratively by the China Telecom Quantum Group (CTQG), the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and QuantumCTek Co., Ltd., represents a leap in the field.
This computer crosses the 500-qubit threshold, a measure of its capacity to process quantum information, and reaches 504, making a significant impact in the quantum industry.
Quantum computing uses qubits that exist in probabilistic states, enabling certain calculations to be performed more efficiently than on classical computers. The technology could benefit tasks such as cryptography, material simulation, and optimisation.
According to CTQG, the Xiaohong chip competes with international platforms like IBM, offering comparable performance in qubit lifetime—how long a quantum state can be maintained—and readout fidelity, which ensures accurate data extraction.
These metrics are essential for building reliable and scalable quantum systems.
Integration into Global Cloud Network
The ‘Tianyan-504’ will be integrated into the Tianyan quantum computing cloud platform, which is accessible to global users. Launched in November 2023, the Tianyan platform has received over 12 million visits from users in more than 50 countries.
It aims to offer researchers and businesses opportunities to explore quantum computing without the high costs of specialised hardware.
It offers cloud-based quantum computing services. The CTQG, established in May 2023 in Hefei, is a subsidiary of China Telecom and focuses on quantum technology research and development.
Building on its history of quantum breakthroughs, China is exploring both photonic and superconducting technologies to develop quantum computers that can outperform traditional ones in specific tasks.
Although Chinese state media and the Chinese Academy of Sciences have praised the ‘Tianyan-504,’ its performance has not yet been independently verified. Even so, the launch highlights China’s commitment to advancing its role in the global quantum technology race.
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