According to Nikkei, the research team includes Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT), the University of Tokyo and the Riken Research Institute. The three have developed a high-performance “squeezed light” source, which is used to transmit information in optical quantum computers. The team’s ultimate goal is to develop a powerful quantum computer using this technology by 2030.
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A Japanese research team including Nippon Telegraph and Telephone has developed a high-performance “squeezed light” source, essential for optical quantum computing. |
The effort marks a key step forward for Japan in an area that is believed to be crucial to the competitiveness of many industries in the years to come. The government has funded the project as part of a 200 billion yen (about $1.76 billion) initiative. The field of quantum science is largely dominated by the US, thanks to tech giants like Google and IBM. China is also one of the leading countries.
According to Project Manager Akira Furusawa, a professor at the University of Tokyo School of Engineering, the team sees the potential for significant performance improvements over other competing technologies. Optical computers can run at room temperature without the expensive cooling equipment needed for other quantum computers that use superconductors. NTT, a fiber optic internet service provider in Japan, which continues to research optical technology, has leveraged its experience and expertise in this field for the project.
Quantum computers can handle calculations that conventional systems cannot. In 2019, Google claimed to have achieved “quantum supremacy” by completing in just over three minutes a task that would take the best classical supercomputer 10,000 years. Companies and research institutions around the world are also participating in the quantum race. Google and IBM are working on superconducting quantum computers, using materials that have no resistance at extremely low temperatures. In Japan, Riken and Fujitsu are also taking that path. Last month, IBM announced the development of a processor with 127 quantum bits, or qubits, more than the 53-qubit system Google once relied on to assert its quantum supremacy.
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However, there are certain hurdles in the field of quantum computers. For example, wiring makes it difficult to improve the performance of superconducting systems, and other players are pursuing alternative possibilities. Hitachi is working on a silicon-based quantum computer, seen as a promising avenue for future large-scale systems. Meanwhile, US-based IonQ uses ions trapped in a vacuum chamber.
Each method has advantages and disadvantages. The value of optical systems includes the potential for scalability and reduced power usage. Last year, the University of Science and Technology of China said it had achieved quantum supremacy with a light-based computer.
The Boston Consulting Group estimates quantum computing will generate $850 billion in annual value by 2040. While many challenges remain, such as dealing with errors caused by noise, advances are being made. implemented on many fronts could accelerate the introduction of quantum technology into practical use.
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