IBM's Eagle processor contains layers that allow qubits to perform well together. (Image Credit: IBM)
During IBM's Quantum Summit, IBM revealed Eagle, a 127-qubit processor, and previewed designs for IBM Quantum System Two, Big Blue's next-gen quantum system. This announcement showcases how much IBM's hardware has grown. In 2020, the company outlined its hardware and software roadmaps. IBM also says that it expects frictionless quantum computing by 2025. This would allow varying applications to outperform classical computing. The Eagle processor is expected to be readily available to IBM's Quantum Network members in December.
Eagle became the first processor developed by IBM to feature over 100 qubits. It also serves as a huge step toward scaling quantum computing. So far, IBM has installed approximately 50 quantum systems with around 20 available on the cloud. The company manufactured Eagle in its fabrication facility but says the quantity isn't very high right now.
The processer leverages new techniques where the qubits settle on an individual layer while control components remain on several physical levels. This setup proves advantageous because it means that additional usable qubits can be used. However, Eagle cannot be simulated on a traditional computer.
In addition, IBM previewed Quantum System Two, which functions with processors featuring over 1,000 qubits. Even more, its modular design provides the ability to store and cool multiple processors in one system. With that in mind, customers can manipulate and test parts of the system without impacting the whole setup. IBM's newest quantum system is expected to start operating at IBM Research in 2023.
"IBM Quantum System Two offers a glimpse into the future quantum computing datacenter, where modularity and flexibility of system infrastructure will be key towards continued scaling," said Dr. Jay Gambetta, IBM Fellow and VP of Quantum Computing. "System Two draws on IBM's long heritage in both quantum and classical computing, bringing in new innovations at every level of the technology stack."
It's not clear how many of these quantum systems the company plans to deploy. IBM could even use the system to expand its footprint. During the pandemic, IBM engineers learned how to install quantum systems remotely.
Some people are worried that quantum technology's advancements could destroy the crypto industry. That's because attackers would use quantum computers to break encryption. They could then impersonate cryptocurrency owners and empty anyone's digital wallet. However, to achieve this, a quantum computer must contain thousands of qubits and perform longer calculations than classical computers. Researchers have already started adding more qubits into quantum computers and are working on quantum error correction techniques, allowing qubits to perform longer calculations.
Even then, cryptocurrency fans won't need to worry because the quantum computing issue can be solved by implementing post-quantum cryptography technology. The US government's National Institute of Standards and Technology is working with researchers around the world to find quantum-proof cryptography algorithms. The first algorithm could be ready by 2024.
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