Intriguing Quantum #2

[April 17 2024]

Welcome to the second issue of the Intriguing Quantum Newsletter! IQN is curated by Oliver Rochford and Daniella Pontes, CISSP , and summarized using AI. Join us in scanning the horizon for the beginning of the Quantum Age.

Also check out Oliver Rochford's The Curious AI Newsletter.

Key Takeaways

Transformation from lab to app is in full motion. The time to turn our curiosity into engagement is now. Those who are not paying attention will be hit by the tsunami, those who are, will rise with the coming tide.?

Breakthroughs in quantum error correction and fault tolerance are important for realizing the long-term value of quantum computing for scientific discovery and energy security. Results like these enable continued development of quantum computing systems for research and development.

Dr. Travis Humble, Director, Quantum Science Center, Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Quantum Leap: The quest for fault-tolerant quantum computing (FTQC) got a boost of confidence

Microsoft and Quantinuum have brought us closer to fault-tolerant quantum computing (FTQC) with significant advancements in fidelity and error correction, bringing the promising future into sharp focus. The industry is indeed progressing rapidly on multiple fronts. New fluxonium qubits extend coherence time, a critical limiting factor in implementing deep quantum circuits and error-correction schemes. Additionally, new illuminating errors technique enables real-time error detection without destroying the qubits, paving an innovative way for large-scale quantum computing. Practical applications supported by quantum computing are expected within the 2030-2035 timeframe, but who can dismiss the possibility of achieving this even earlier?

Quantum Ecosystem: Spherical expansion signals a new phase.

The quantum ecosystem is entering a phase of rapid expansion, encompassing everything from full-stack development in quantum computing to advancements in quantum networking, which capitalize on existing telecom optical networks. Meanwhile, quantum sensing is carving out new frontiers for medical imaging by using diamond flaws to detect the slightest change in electromagnetic fields and quantum technology is making significant strides in advancing solar energy by integrating quantum dots directly into solar panels. We are witnessing the transformative potential of quantum technology that will leave no stone unturned, with players in every industry and segment adding their piece to the puzzle.

Quantum Valley: Scientists getting the “red carpet” treatment.?

The race for the Quantum Valley is intensifying. Governments at all levels are forming strategic partnerships with universities and eyeing start-ups to increase their "quantum mass." On the other hand, universities are investing in their quantum brand by making room for quantum labs on campus to welcome a new breed of disputed talent, deep tech scientists, thus increasing their investment pull. Princeton sent its message in clear text with bold and capital letters by relocating athletic fields to accommodate its upcoming quantum facility. Are “brain athlete” stars stealing the spotlight and are scientists becoming the new aspirational profession kids will dream about?

Mind-boggling: Quantum chess is not for the faint of heart, not to mention the "faint of mind."

Prepare for truly out-of-the-blue checkmate and to be able to do nothing less than checkmate the entire board! Why? In quantum chess, pieces can exist in multiple states at once, weaving a tapestry of complexity, unpredictability, and possibilities into every move. Is it time to reach deeper into a quantum consciousness to tap into faster reasoning? Are we ready to up our own game with a quantum brain leap??

Intriguing Quantum

What Is Quantum Chess? [The Rules And How To Play Guide]

The Quantum Insider | Link

Quantum chess melds the unpredictability of quantum mechanics with the strategic depth of chess. Developed by Selim Akl and Alice Wismath, it introduces concepts like superposition and entanglement, allowing pieces to exist in multiple states simultaneously. Variants by Chris Cantwell emphasize probability, offering different gameplay experiences. While still niche, quantum chess offers a unique way to explore quantum concepts through gameplay.

Sentiment: Neutral | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Oxford Scientists Achieve Breakthrough in Quantum Computing Security

Techerati | Link

Oxford University physicists announce a breakthrough in quantum computing security with 'blind quantum computing,' ensuring privacy and scalability. By linking quantum computing entities securely, users can interact remotely with cloud servers without compromising data integrity. This advancement, demonstrated over a network, holds promise for secure quantum cloud computing. Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Quantum Computing

Quantum Computers Just Turned 800 Times More Reliable

iHLS | Link

Quantinuum and Microsoft have significantly improved quantum computing reliability, reducing error rates and the number of physical qubits required for a logical qubit. This breakthrough, with 14,000 error-free experiments, marks a substantial step in quantum computing. The achievement promises enhanced capabilities for scientific and commercial applications, paving the way for more effective problem-solving in areas like climate crisis resolution, clean energy, and AI development.

Sentiment: Positive (+) | Time to Impact: Mid-Term

Illuminating Errors Creates A New Paradigm For Quantum Computing

The Quantum Insider | Link

The central obstacle to the future development of quantum computers is being able to correct errors. However, to correct an error, you first have to figure out if an error occurred, and where it is in the data. Princeton University researchers led by Jeff Thompson devised a method to detect errors in quantum computers, enhancing error correction by up to ten fold. Their approach, "erasure conversion," allows qubits to emit light upon error, revolutionizing error detection without qubit destruction, potentially advancing large-scale quantum computing.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

MIT: Qubit Architecture Achieves Progress On Quantum Error Correction

The Quantum Insider | Link

MIT researchers advance quantum computing with a novel qubit architecture, surpassing 99.9% accuracy in two-qubit gates. The fluxonium qubit design, with extended coherence times to more than a millisecond, about 10 times longer than traditional transmon qubits, promises robust error correction, a crucial step towards scalable quantum computing.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Quantum Algorithms for Lattice Problems

ePrint | Link

Yilei Chen, from Tsinghua University and the Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, presents a groundbreaking quantum algorithm for the learning with errors problem (LWE), achieving polynomial time solutions. This method also applies to key lattice problems like GapSVP and SIVP, for which no efficient quantum solutions previously existed. The approach leverages new techniques involving complex Gaussian functions and windowed quantum Fourier transforms to transform LWE challenges into solvable linear equations.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Long-term

Insurmountable Problems Only Quantum Computers Can Address

EE Times Europe | Link?

Quantum computers offer solutions to complex problems unmanageable by traditional computing. This article, part of a series on quantum computing, highlights areas like combinatorics, encryption, chemical and biological engineering, finance, and weather forecasting where quantum computing excels. It emphasizes quantum computing's potential in handling exponentially growing permutations and simulations at molecular levels, crucial for advancements in various scientific and financial fields.

Sentiment: Positive (+) | Time to Impact: Long Term

Applied Quantum

Qubit Pharmaceuticals Partners With The PINQ2 Platform To Use Quantum Computers To Accelerate Pharmaceutical Research

The Quantum Insider | Link

Qubit Pharmaceuticals collaborates with the PINQ2 Platform to leverage quantum computing for drug discovery, enhancing its partnership with DistriQ – Quantum Innovation Zone. Utilizing the IBM Quantum System One, this alliance aims to revolutionize medical research, promising breakthroughs in molecular analysis and simulation to address complex healthcare challenges.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

Quantum Dots Shine In UbiQD’s Solar Energy Joint Development Deal

The Quantum Insider | Link

New Mexico's Ubiquitous Quantum Dots (UbiQD) partners with solar-panel giant First Solar Inc. to enhance panel efficiency by integrating quantum dots directly into the panels. This collaboration signifies a potential breakthrough for UbiQD in becoming a major quantum-dot technology supplier and could solidify its position in the mainstream solar industry, contributing to the advancement of green technology.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Transmitting Entanglement in Metropolitan Networks in Barcelona

Phys.org | Link

Researchers in Barcelona achieve the transmission of quantum entanglement over a metropolitan network, a significant step towards large-scale quantum communication networks. This breakthrough enables the distribution of entangled quantum bits (qubits) across the city, facilitating future quantum internet applications. The impact is expected to be transformative in the mid to long term, fostering the development of secure quantum communication infrastructures for various sectors.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid to Long-term

Princeton University Researchers Make Breakthrough In Connecting Distant Quantum Devices

The Quantum Insider | Link

Princeton University scientists unveil a groundbreaking method for linking remote quantum devices using a new quantum repeater design. This innovation, utilizing erbium ions and telecom-ready light, marks a significant advancement in fortifying quantum communication networks, potentially shaping future secure communication systems.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

EDF CTO Ste?phane Tanguy Discusses Quantum Computing For Energy Transition

The Quantum Insider | Link

Ste?phane Tanguy from EDF shares insights on quantum computing's role in energy transition. Emphasizing early adoption and skill development, Tanguy highlights quantum's potential for grid optimization, energy storage, and cleaner fuel development. EDF's proactive stance since 2018 illustrates the necessity of advanced computation in enhancing energy efficiency. This strategic investment aims to revolutionize energy systems, bridging quantum's theoretical advancements with practical applications for a sustainable future.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Bosch Startup Mines Diamond Flaws for Magnetic Field Quantum Sensors

EE Times | Link

A Bosch startup is leveraging diamond flaws to create quantum sensors for detecting magnetic fields. By exploiting defects in diamonds, the startup aims to enhance the sensitivity and precision of magnetic field detection, potentially revolutionizing industries like medical imaging and navigation.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Quantum Startups

IQT’s “Journal Club:” Monetizing Quantum Computing

Inside Quantum Technology | Link

A recent IEEE paper by Nir Kshetri explores avenues for monetizing quantum computing, emphasizing its speed advantage and investment trends. Applications range from pharmaceuticals to finance, with Quantum Computing as a Service emerging as a promising business model. Despite challenges like qubit stability, continued investment signals a trajectory towards realizing quantum computing's economic potential.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

NSF Invests $29 Million in 18 Research Teams for Quantum Sensing Investigations

The Quantum Insider | Link

The National Science Foundation (NSF) allocates $29 million to 18 research teams for quantum sensing investigations. These investments signify a substantial commitment to advancing quantum technologies, particularly in the realm of quantum sensing, which holds promise for various scientific and technological applications.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Welinq Receives a 2.5M€ EIC Transition Grant to Enable the Quantum Internet

Notion |Link

Welinq secures a significant EIC Transition grant to advance neutral atom quantum memory technology, accelerating the realization of the Quantum Internet. This support from the European Union will propel Welinq's efforts in developing key products for quantum networking, fostering Europe's strategic autonomy in quantum technology.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

PsiQuantum Likely Less Than Six Years Away From Commercial Quantum Computer

The Quantum Insider | Link

PsiQuantum anticipates delivering its inaugural commercial quantum computing system in under six years, backed by significant investment, strategic partnerships, and research advancements. The collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy and GlobalFoundries accelerates the timeline, aiming to revolutionize industries with practical quantum solutions.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

CSR5 Global: Quantum emotion Corp. Announces Strategic Partnership with TPG Global, LLC

Yahoo Finance | Link

Quantum Emotion Corp. (QEC), a pioneer in Quantum emotion recognition technology, partners with TPG Global, LLC, a leading investment firm. This collaboration aims to accelerate QEC's growth and innovation in leveraging quantum computing for eMotion analysis, potentially revolutionizing fields like healthcare and human-computer interaction.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Quantum Valley Rush

Battle of Titans: The Epic in the Quantum Market

Fortune | Link

The U.S. remains the undisputed world leader in quantum computing, supported by policies like the Bayh-Dole Act that encourage collaboration between universities and the private sector. Despite China's aggressive investment— over $15 billion, which is eight times more than U.S. spending— America maintains its edge. However, proposed policy changes that might deter private investment in federally funded research threaten to erode this U.S. dominance. This situation highlights the critical role of supportive policies in maintaining technological and economic leadership in the face of substantial foreign advancements.

Sentiment: Concerned | Time to Impact: Mid-term

US and Japan Unveil Extensive AI and Tech Collaboration

ArtificialIntelligence-News | Link

President Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio announce a $110 million AI partnership, quantum technology cooperation, and semiconductor initiatives. The collaboration emphasizes national AI safety standards, quantum workforce training, and joint semiconductor workforce development, aiming to enhance competitiveness and economic prosperity.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

US Regional Race: State Initiatives Surge Forward

CNBC | Link , The Quantum Insider | Link, PCMag | Link

Denver-Boulder is emerging as a hub in the quantum race, aspiring to rival Silicon Valley with a growing ecosystem of quantum startups and research collaborations. Meanwhile, Illinois' Governor unveils a strategic plan to position the state as a quantum leader, focusing on fostering academia-industry partnerships and attracting investments. Adding to the momentum, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is now the first university equipped with an IBM Quantum System One, emphasizing hands-on student training and regional workforce development in quantum technologies.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Europe in the Fray: European Quantum Initiatives Gain Momentum

The Quantum Insider | Link, Sifted | Link, PitchBook | Link

Europe's quantum computing sector is rapidly advancing with significant national and private investments. Germany launches its first quantum cloud through the SeQuenC project, with Anaqor AG enhancing the initiative, funded by the German government. France's Pasqal is challenging US giants, aiming to scale its neutral atom-based quantum processors by 2025. Meanwhile, Ireland's Quantum 2030 strategy seeks to make the nation a global leader in quantum technologies, with similar ambitions reflected in Europe's broad quantum investments, like Quantonation's €200 million fund to boost early-stage startups.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

South Korea in the Ascend: Building a Quantum League

The Quantum Insider | Link, The Quantum Insider | Link

Sejong City, in collaboration with KAIST and QuEra Computing, aims to transform into a quantum industry hub, spurred by international cooperation agreements. This initiative focuses on infrastructure, talent development, and raising sector awareness. Concurrently, Norma and IQM Quantum Computers have signed an MoU to boost South Korea's quantum computing capabilities through joint development and educational initiatives.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

QAI Ventures Launches Global Quantum Technology Accelerator and Canadian Office in Calgary

University of Calgary News | Link

QAI Ventures partners with Quantum City at the University of Calgary to establish a quantum technology accelerator, aiming to propel startups globally. This collaboration aims to foster innovation, providing startups with resources and mentorship. With the first cohort set to launch in 2025, the partnership shapes Alberta's role in the quantum economy.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

Quantum Talent Nurture

Quantum Steals Home: Princeton's New Quantum Facility

The Quantum Insider | Link

Princeton University relocates athletic fields to accommodate its upcoming quantum facility. This strategic move reflects the growing significance of quantum research, indicating Princeton's commitment to advancing quantum technologies and fostering innovation.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Dr Chris Ballance, quantum computing’s up-and-coming star Unraveling Quantum Mysteries with Chris Ballance University of

University of Oxford | Link

Chris Ballance, a quantum physicist at the University of Oxford, discusses his research in quantum mechanics and how it applies to developing quantum technologies. He explores the intricate world of quantum phenomena and the potential applications in computing and communication.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Post-Quantum Cryptography/Quantum-Safe Cryptography

Making Sense of the Post-Quantum Payments Landscape

PYMNTS | Link

The looming Quantum Day isn't just an event; it signifies the advent of quantum technology threatening encryption standards worldwide. Microsoft and Quantinuum's recent quantum milestone brings "Q-Day" closer, poised to disrupt finance and payments. Quantum computers, potentially operational within a decade, jeopardize existing encryption, making data breaches more perilous. Amidst threats, opportunities arise with NIST endorsing post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, safeguarding future transactions.

Sentiment: Neutral | Time to Impact: Short-term

Bank Of Canada Engages EvolutionQ In Research On Quantum-Safe Digital Currencies

The Quantum Insider | Link

evolutionQ partners with the Bank of Canada to research quantum-safe cybersecurity for digital currencies. This collaboration aims to integrate quantum-resistant encryption methods into digital currency design, enhancing security against quantum threats. The open-source release of developed code fosters collaborative advancement in quantum-safe technologies.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

Researchers Develop Quantum-Inspired Algorithm That Improves Cyber Attack Detection And Opens AI’s ‘Black Box’

The Quantum Insider | Link Researchers from Multiverse Computing and CounterCraft introduce a new quantum AI model, Matrix Product State (MPS), boosting cyber attack detection. This approach, leveraging adversary-generated threat intelligence, outperforms rule-based systems, spotting 100% of attacks with enhanced precision and explainability. The model's potential spans diverse sectors beyond cybersecurity, promising to reshape anomaly detection across industries.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

Is Your iMessage on Lockdown? Discover Apple’s Game-Changing Security Upgrade!

Product Guru Reviews | Link

Apple unveils PQ3 (Post Quantum Cryptographic Protocol) for iMessage, introducing advanced encryption resistant to potential quantum threats. PQ3 continually evolves encryption keys, ensuring past and present messages remain secure. This upgrade reflects Apple's commitment to user privacy, marking a significant advancement in digital communication security accessible to all users.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

Quantum Threat Highlights Need for Digital Trust

Betanews | Link

With NIST set to finalize post-quantum cryptography standards, Keyfactor's report underscores the urgency for organizations to address the quantum threat. Only 23% have initiated post-quantum cryptography work, while 36% plan to start after the standards' release. Chris Hickman emphasizes the immediate need for PQC readiness to thwart quantum-driven security breaches, urging firms to fortify PKI infrastructure. Concerns about adapting to cryptographic changes have surged to 80%, highlighting growing anxieties in the digital trust realm.

Sentiment: Neutral | Time to Impact: Short-term

European Commission Publishes Recommendation on Post-Quantum Cryptography

The Quantum Insider | Link

The European Commission releases a Recommendation on Post-Quantum Cryptography to harmonize the EU's approach amid the transition to post-quantum cryptography. Aimed at ensuring digital infrastructures' security in the upcoming digital era, the guidelines promote coordinated strategies among Member States to combat potential threats posed by quantum advancements.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

Standardizations | Regulations | Legislations?

Practical Quantum Computing Coming in 3-5 Years, Will Be Cloud-Based, NSA Official Predicts

Nextgov | Link

An NSA official forecasts practical quantum computing within 3-5 years, accessible via the cloud. This advancement will revolutionize cybersecurity, enabling quantum-resistant encryption. The impact will likely be significant in the mid-term, reshaping digital security landscapes and necessitating quantum-safe measures across sectors to counter emerging threats.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Bringing Quantum Computing To Society

The Quantum Insider | Link

CERN launches the Open Quantum Institute (OQI), a three-year program aimed at applying quantum computing to UN Sustainable Development Goals. Funded by UBS, the initiative integrates with CERN's Quantum Technology Initiative (QTI) to democratize access to quantum resources and expertise, potentially bridging digital divides. The OQI will support projects targeting food security, healthcare, and climate action during its pilot phase, signaling a significant step towards societal quantum integration.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

Forecasting the Future of Science: Keeping Switzerland Ahead

AFP | Link

As science propels forward, the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator Foundation (GESDA) focuses on anticipating disruptive technologies like quantum computing. Learning from AI's rapid rise, GESDA aims to establish regulatory frameworks before quantum's full potential unfolds. By engaging scientists and diplomats, GESDA hopes to steer quantum's development toward positive outcomes, ensuring Switzerland's pivotal role in global diplomacy and technology governance.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short to Mid-term

Beyond The Binary: Legal Considerations in the Quantum Computing Era

JD Supra | Link

As quantum computing advances, legal professionals must grasp its nuances to navigate regulatory frameworks and intellectual property rights effectively. Quantum computers, with their unique paradigm of qubits and entanglement, promise exponential processing power but face challenges like qubit stability. Understanding the legal landscape enables proactive compliance, liability mitigation, and innovation protection. While widespread availability's timeline remains uncertain, staying informed is crucial for industry leaders to leverage legal strategies for innovation and risk mitigation.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Republicans Officially Introduce The Defense Quantum Acceleration Act

The Quantum Insider | Link

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik and Senator Marsha Blackburn present the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act to enhance the Department of Defense’s approach to quantum technology. The bill aims to optimize development, establish a quantum technology testbed, and foster collaboration to ensure U.S. national security. Stakeholders from various sectors laud the legislation, recognizing its potential to propel the nation's quantum capabilities forward.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

Quantum Events

World Quantum Day 2024 — Celebrating Quantum Science and Technology

The Quantum Insider | Link

World Quantum Day calls for celebrating Quantum Science and Technology. With over 65 countries involved, individuals and organizations are urged to host events like talks, exhibitions, and panel discussions. Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

TQI Hopes ‘The Quantum Mobility Quest’ Gives Quantum Tech ‘Wings’

The Quantum Insider | Link

The Quantum Insider, in collaboration with Airbus and BMW Group, launches "The Quantum Mobility Quest", a global initiative to address complex challenges in aviation and automotive industries through quantum computing, such as:?

• Improved aerodynamics design with quantum solvers,?
• Future automated mobility with quantum machine learning,?
• More sustainable supply chain with quantum optimisation
• Enhanced corrosion inhibition with quantum simulation.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Mid-term

$5 Million XPRIZE Focuses On Quantum Applications

The Quantum Insider | Link

The XPRIZE Quantum Applications competition, backed by Google Quantum AI and others, launches a 3-year, $5 million challenge to harness quantum computing for societal advancement, addressing global issues.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

D-Wave's Qubits 2024: Unveiling Quantum Success

Yahoo Finance | Link

D-Wave announced its Qubits 2024 conference in Boston on June 17-18, themed "Success, Powered by Quantum."?

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

The 2nd Annual Stanford Responsible Quantum Technology Conference

Stanford Center for Responsible Quantum Technology | Link

The conference highlights the launch of the Stanford Center for Responsible Quantum Technology. The event fosters collaboration among academia, regulators, industry, and end users, aiming to guide quantum innovation responsibly.

Sentiment: Positive | Time to Impact: Short-term

The Intriguing Quantum Newsletter is our attempt at documenting the emerging field of quantum science, how it is being applied, and what new and novel applications may be possible in the future.