Intriguing Quantum #20
Daniella Pontes, CISSP
? ? Product | Solution Marketer ? ? Quantum Ambassador ? ? Planning & Executing to Market Success
[January 3, 2025]
Welcome to the 20th issue of the Intriguing Quantum newsletter! IQ newsletter 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.
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Also check out Oliver Rochford's The Curious AI Newsletter.
Happy 2025! Welcome To The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.
2025 will be a year where investors discover early opportunities to invest in Quantum tech in all categories. Those who do will be most prepared when the Quantum wave hits later in this decade.
Dan Caruso, Managing Director of Caruso Ventures
KEY TAKEAWAYS
QUANTUM MARKET: When It Rains, It Pours
The quantum computing market experienced a significant surge at the close of 2024, largely driven by Willow chip's error correction breakthrough. This development reignited interest in quantum computing and brought attention to what could pass under the radar, such as Quantum Computing Inc.'s (QCi) contract with NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center for quantum advanced imaging and data processing capabilities, and IonQ's contract with the U.S. Air Force Research Lab to develop scalable, networked, and deployable quantum systems.
The market excitement was amplified by the rush to acquire quantum company stocks, leading to remarkable year-to-date gains:
Google's Alphabet Inc (GOOG) stock, of course, received a boost, driven by the momentum surrounding Willow's capabilities. NVIDIA (NVDA) continued to position itself at the intersection of quantum and classical computing by capitalizing on quantum simulations and hybrid HPC solutions, fueling demand for GPUs.
It is important, though, to contextualize these gains. For instance, both D-Wave and Rigetti faced potential delisting due to stock price non-compliance with the minimum share price requirement earlier in the year, which shows the volatility and risks inherent in the quantum computing sector.
Hype vs. Opportunity
It's wise to approach the sector with caution. Advances in error correction have provided a glimpse into a future of unprecedented quantum value, but the path to that turning point is still long. Big tech and new entrants are competing with compelling but different approaches, each with its own pros and cons. It's worth paying attention to emerging strategies that apply pragmatism, such as leveraging silicon’s mature infrastructure, optimized qubit and chip architecture, and integrated control systems. How companies execute their roadmaps toward a fault-tolerant quantum computer (FTQC) will determine which front-runners will deliver the valuable systems of the future.
Roadmaps Parade
With growing confidence in quantum computing’s momentum, companies look toward 2025 and beyond to capture market share. Many have published roadmaps (see list provided by GQI’s Quantum Computing Report), committing to build systems capable of handling 100+ error-corrected qubits by 2030. These roadmaps extend beyond theoretical ambitions, setting a timeline for supporting practical applications.?
Besides individual roadmaps, the industry needs to meet critical milestones.?
QGI team identified key challenges that must be addressed to deliver true fault-tolerant quantum computer (FTQC):
The momentum is undeniable, but the road to practical quantum computing is complex and permeated with hype and opportunities. 2025's outcomes will depend on those who can navigate this path with a clear focus on execution.
Related articles:
QUANTUM ERROR CORRECTION (QEC):? Stealing The Scene
2024 has undoubtedly been the year of quantum error correction (QEC), with significant scientific recognition and market enthusiasm. Two major QEC advancements earned the Physics World 2024 Breakthrough of the Year award—one for demonstrating error correction with 48 logical qubits on an atomic processor, and the other for implementing error correction below the surface code threshold on a superconducting chip.?
A Healthy Amount of Competition
The importance of error correction has spurred a steady flow of new approaches with this trend expected to intensify in 2025.?
Google AI, alongside Willow's debut, introduced two new methods: Color Code error correction, which is more efficient but complicates measurements, and Dynamic Surface Codes, which include three designs: the Hexagonal Lattice Surface Code, simplifying chip design with fewer couplings; the Walking Surface Code, reducing errors by swapping qubit roles; and the iSWAP Surface Code, minimizing leakage by replacing traditional gates.
Meanwhile, researchers from Harvard, MIT, and QuEra unveiled Logical Magic State Distillation, an efficient method for implementing Clifford and non-Clifford gates—essential for fault-tolerant quantum computers.
IBM also introduced a Quantum Low-Density Parity-Check (QLDPC) error correction code using a unique connectivity strategy that could achieve the same error-correction benefits as the surface code with fewer qubits.
Error-correction frameworks are emerging, with growing scope, and leapfrogging competitors. And that is excellent news!
Related articles:
INTRIGUING QUANTUM:? Black Hole’s Singularity — Scientists’ Forbidden Fruit?
The article Guardians of the Universe: How Quantum Black Holes Hide the End of Space and Time explores cosmic censorship proposed by Physics Nobel laureate Roger Penrose, which suggests that singularities are hidden within black holes by the event horizon for a good reason: “At a singularity, space, time, and matter are compressed to the point of nonexistence, causing the known laws of physics to break down entirely. If singularities were observable, scientists would lose the ability to predict future events based on past conditions. In other words, science would become an impossibility.”
According to the article, quantum mechanics seems to support this censorship by providing a quantum shroud to naked singularities, keeping one of the universe’s most fundamental truths out of reach, much like the forbidden fruit in Eden.
We know that we won’t stop pursuing it. But, this raises philosophical questions:
Does cosmic censorship act as a boundary to our consciousness by design, limiting our understanding of reality for our own good — perhaps as a form of divine intervention? Is it preventing chaos and despair that could arise from the "death" of science as we know it? Ironically, after science’s persistent attempts to "kill God," creating similar disarray in the souls of those who once turned to the Heavens for guidance and hope? Interesting twist, don’t you think? :-)
Unveiling the singularity might wake us from our collective dream. If so, as humanity, should we have a say in which pill to pick — the red or the blue?
NEWS COVERAGE?
QUANTUM COMPUTING
Summary: Live Science highlights the most exciting technological advances of 2024, including significant progress in quantum computing. The article showcases how new quantum computing technologies and breakthroughs, such as QEC, are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the tech industry. It emphasizes the broader significance of these developments in quantum computing as a transformative force. Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Short (3-18 months)
Summary: This article reports that Google’s surface code for quantum error correction faces competition from other quantum tech players. It highlights the advancements from various companies and research labs developing new techniques to reduce error rates, crucial for the future of quantum computing. These developments are pushing the field closer to fault-tolerant quantum systems.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: The article discusses the growing trend of on-premise quantum computing deployments, showing a significant increase in installations from 2016 to 2024. It emphasizes the maturation of quantum computing technology that enables businesses to host their quantum systems locally, offering more accessibility and control over quantum resources.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: IBM has demonstrated its first multi-processor quantum system, marking a significant milestone in quantum computing. This multi-processor setup enables multiple quantum processors to work in tandem, a crucial development for scaling quantum systems. The article details the importance of this innovation in advancing quantum processing capabilities.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: The article reviews the quantum computing roadmaps announced in 2024, highlighting key milestones set by leading companies like D-Wave and IonQ. These roadmaps focus on scaling quantum systems to 100+ error-corrected qubits by the decade's end, with the aim of achieving practical applications.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Long-term (5+ years)
QUANTUM ECOSYSTEM
Summary: This article highlights the top 10 quantum partnerships of 2024, emphasizing the collaboration between companies and research institutions in advancing quantum technologies. It showcases the role of partnerships in accelerating progress and addressing challenges in the quantum ecosystem.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the National University of Singapore (NUS) have launched a spin-off focused on developing quantum control technology. This cutting-edge technology is expected to help optimize quantum systems and improve the performance of quantum computing.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: Scientists have developed a matchbox-sized 780 nm laser, a breakthrough in quantum technology. This compact device could replace larger lasers in quantum applications and atomic clocks, making quantum research more accessible and efficient.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Short (3-18 months)
QUANTUM COMMUNICATIONS
Summary: For the first time, scientists have successfully demonstrated quantum teleportation over the internet. This achievement has significant implications for quantum communication and cybersecurity, paving the way for more secure data transmission.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: Northwestern University engineers have demonstrated quantum teleportation over busy internet cables for the first time. This breakthrough is a major step toward practical quantum communication systems.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: This article discusses a new architecture for long-range quantum data transmission using a quantum bus, which allows qubits to communicate over longer distances without losing information. This could be a crucial step toward building large-scale quantum networks.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Long-term (5+ years)
QUANTUM MEMORY
领英推荐
Summary: WiMi has unveiled a new architecture for Quantum Random Access Memory (QRAM), which leverages quantum computing's parallel processing capabilities. This development aims to enhance the speed and efficiency of quantum systems, which could revolutionize memory management in quantum computing applications.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
QUANTUM CYBERSECURITY
Summary: Experts share predictions about the future of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and quantum cybersecurity, emphasizing the accelerating demand for quantum-safe solutions. The article highlights emerging trends and potential breakthroughs in quantum cybersecurity for 2025 and beyond.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: This article focuses on the ongoing development of quantum-safe digital signatures, crucial for securing digital communications in the quantum computing era. It assesses current progress and how organizations are adapting to post-quantum encryption needs.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: The article examines how post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is becoming increasingly adopted across various sectors, addressing the imminent risks posed by quantum computing to data security. It highlights efforts to secure digital infrastructures ahead of quantum threats.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Short (3-18 months)
Summary: The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) remains optimistic about meeting the 2035 deadline for implementing quantum encryption, despite concerns about quantum threats. The article discusses how government agencies are preparing for future quantum cybersecurity challenges.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Long-term (5+ years)
Summary: CISA provides an overview of how post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is poised to safeguard against quantum computing threats, offering insights into the methods and technologies that will secure critical infrastructure.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: MeriTalk reviews the significant quantum tech advancements of 2024, including post-quantum cryptography, and looks ahead to the accelerating pace of innovation in 2025. The article highlights key milestones and challenges as quantum technology continues to evolve.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Short (3-18 months)
QUANTUM NATIONS
Summary: The article compares the quantum innovation models of China and the U.S., analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of each approach. It discusses how state-backed models in China contrast with market-driven innovation in the U.S., each influencing the global quantum race. Sentiment: Neutral Time to Impact: Long-term (5+ years)
Summary: Russia has revealed its first 50-qubit quantum computer prototype, developed under its national quantum roadmap. This marks a significant step in Russia's quest to compete in the global quantum race. Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
QUANTUM SENSING
Summary: DARPA is exploring new quantum sensing programs to enhance defense capabilities in alternative positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT). This initiative reflects the growing importance of quantum sensors in military and intelligence operations.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
USE CASES
Summary: SEALSQ and WISeSat have partnered to build a next-generation secure satellite constellation using a "Satellite-as-a-Service" (SaaS) model. This initiative aims to address the security challenges posed by quantum computing in satellite communications. Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: This article reviews the top 10 quantum research stories of 2024, from breakthroughs in quantum chemistry to strides toward fault-tolerant quantum computing. It highlights the progress made and the growing anticipation for further developments in the coming years.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Short (3-18 months)
Summary: Researchers have made a significant leap in simulating molecular electron transfer using quantum computing, which could pave the way for advancements in renewable energy and molecular electronics.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: Six new quantum tech pilots have joined the NSF's National Quantum Virtual Lab, aimed at testing quantum technologies and advancing real-world applications. The pilots will help accelerate quantum research and innovation.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
QUANTUM STARTUPS AND THE MARKET
Summary: BlueQubit has raised $10M to expand quantum computing access to enterprise businesses, focusing on quantum AI models for materials discovery and risk management. This funding signals growing interest in quantum solutions for business applications.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: Venture capitalists predict significant developments in quantum and deep tech by 2025, focusing on the rise of neutral atom quantum computers and advancements in quantum computing's commercial viability. The article also highlights emerging trends that will shape the quantum landscape in the coming years.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
QUANTUM SCIENCE
Summary: This study explores how the classical world we experience could emerge from parallel quantum universes, shedding light on how quantum mechanics governs reality at the microscopic level. It introduces an intriguing theory about the relationship between the quantum and classical worlds.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Long-term (5+ years)
Summary: The article reviews the most important quantum science and technology developments of 2024, including advancements in quantum sensing, quantum computing, and related fields. It highlights key breakthroughs that will shape future quantum technologies.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Short (3-18 months)
Summary: Physicists discovered a link between the Large Hadron Collider and quantum computing, uncovering insights into the behavior of top quarks. This breakthrough could enhance our understanding of quantum mechanics and improve quantum computing models.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: Scientists have observed "negative time" in quantum experiments, a phenomenon that challenges our traditional understanding of time and could have profound implications for quantum computing. This observation could lead to new breakthroughs in quantum theory.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Long-term (5+ years)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Summary: MicroCloud Hologram has developed a new semiconductor quantum dot hole spin qubit, marking a significant advancement in quantum technology. This development aims to improve the efficiency of quantum computers, particularly in handling complex quantum states.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: Rigetti Computing has launched its latest quantum cloud services platform, Ankaa?-3, with 84 qubits. This new system provides improved processing power, enabling businesses to run more complex quantum algorithms.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Short (3-18 months)
Summary: WiMi has developed a quantum technology-based random access memory (QRAM) architecture, which leverages quantum properties for more efficient memory management in quantum computers. This development could lead to faster and more powerful quantum systems.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: A Singapore-based startup has developed a quantum controller designed to bridge the gap between traditional and quantum computing. This innovation aims to integrate the two computing paradigms, making quantum computing more accessible and efficient.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Mid (18-60 months)
Summary: IBM will establish the National Quantum Algorithm Center to accelerate quantum computing research and development. This center will focus on advancing quantum algorithms and ensuring they are scalable for practical applications.
Sentiment: Positive Time to Impact: Long-term (5+ years)
Co-Founder, CEO at Quantum Elements
1 个月Love this #newsletter, great work Daniella
President at Tier IV North America Inc.
1 个月Another great issue on Quantum Daniella!