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The rapid advance of artificial intelligence (AI) has led to the proposition that we are now in the era of AI. This raises the question of what comes next.

According to Michio Kakus illuminating book Quantum Supremacy, the next era after AI will be quantum computing (QC). Quantum physics, once considered an abstract concept, now permeates numerous everyday activities, from photosynthesis to MRI scans and the behaviour of electrons on the nanoscale within semiconductors.

Is it too early to invest in this forthcoming wave now? Almost certainly yes but it is time to start preparing. Heres a briefing note to help you know more about QC with one ETF investment opportunity you can consider now.

The key differentiator in QC is the use of qubits instead of bits. Qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously, unlike classic computer bits which can only be in one of two exclusive states: 1 or 0. This fundamental distinction means that while a classic computers power increases linearly with the number of transistors, a quantum computers power grows exponentially in relation to the number of qubits linked together.

Furthermore, quantum computers can leverage quantum algorithms that make use of quantum superposition or entanglement, reducing the time complexity of the algorithm and fundamentally accelerating problem-solving capabilities. Given that much of the interaction of real-world particles is quantum by nature, it is intuitive that using quantum technologies to simulate and predict their behaviour will offer more authentic results.

Advanced QC has the potential to revolutionise and solve complex real-life problems that are currently intractable for classic computers, even when using AI. It is worth noting that some of the great advances we are likely to see during this era may be the product of a collaboration between AI and QC.

Many computer scientists have proposed that artificial general intelligence (AGI) will only be reached once AI is working in full collaboration with QC. AGI is when computer programs exhibit the ability to understand, learn and apply knowledge across a wide range of tasks, essentially mirroring generalised human cognitive abilities.

The potential of QC for AI is immense. Quantum machine learning could classify larger datasets in less time, and quantum neural networks could process information in methodologies that classic neural networks cannot. While existing AI tools are powerful and practical for many applications today, QC represents a new frontier with the potential to significantly advance the field.

Some of the other areas where QC could have a significant real-world and equity market impact include:

Cybersecurity Quantum computers could break widely used encryption methods which rely on the difficulty of factoring large numbers. Conversely, they could enable the development of disruptive quantum-resistant encryption algorithms to ensure data security in a post-quantum era. There is no reason why the current crop of cybersecurity players could not be at the forefront of quantum encryption and cybersecurity but it is quite possible that we will see new players evolve leading to a cast change in the major sector players. Hence, I would suggest there is medium-level QC disruption risk in this sector.

Drug discovery and material science Quantum computers can simulate the behaviour of molecules and materials at the quantum level with high precision. The complexity of the interaction of molecules (which is a quantum event) means that classical computing is highly limited in its ability to process or simulate complex molecular problems.

QC will improve the discovery of new drugs and materials, and potentially revolutionise the pharmaceutical and materials science industries. Drug discovery is likely to become less expensive, more predictable and quicker to market through better simulation.

In turn, this should reduce costs throughout the industry and may lead to efficacy cliffs for existing blockbusting drugs. I see the QC disruption risk to the pharmaceutical sector as high.

Materials We could see a scenario where raw elemental materials are inferior for each of their respective end tasks when compared to QC-discovered synthetic composites which may be formulated more efficiently through more common elements or compounds.

Supply chain optimisation The current Red Sea hot flashes and the Covid supply chain issues show how the logistics and supply chain is vital to a functioning global economy. QC can optimise supply chains by efficiently solving large-scale logistical and transportation problems, reducing costs, and improving overall efficiency. Improved supply chains should reduce working capital levels and hence increase the return on invested capital for companies which should theoretically drive general equities higher.

Energy production and storage QC may be successful in finding efficient methodologies for nuclear fusion (which is a quantum phenomenon) resulting in a boundless energy supply, discovering new materials for energy production and storage, and potentially accelerating the development of renewable energy technologies and improving energy efficiency. The oil & gas sector will certainly go the way of the stagecoach sector, and I would guess the electricity utility companies will suffer demand destruction as customers shift to at home generation.

Climate modelling The weather is a quantum phenomenon which is why classic computing prediction models are of low efficacy. Simulating the behaviour of molecules, particles, and climate systems at a quantum level could improve the accuracy and speed of climate models. This can aid in understanding climate change and developing strategies to mitigate its effects. It will also allow Insurance companies to price premiums with more certainty lowering this cost for many businesses.

As ever with advances in technology, QC will have a transformative effect on the technology & software sectors and, as with AI, I would suspect that the software sector will again bear the brunt of disruption risk. One company that will have to respond and adapt to QC is simulation software specialist Ansys which we discussed in our last article.

Its important to note that while QC holds immense promise, it is still in its early stages of development, and practical, large-scale quantum computers are not yet widely available. Additionally, the full extent of their capabilities and limitations is still being explored by a very limited number of companies.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of quantum computing, several companies are at the forefront of driving the development and application of QC technologies. These companies are making strides in advancing the capabilities of quantum computing, with each taking a unique approach to this transformative technology.

Microsoft is actively working on delivering quantum at scale by engineering a unique, stable qubit and bringing a full-stack, fault-tolerant quantum machine to its Azure cloud platform. CEO Satya Nadella has emphasised the importance of QC in the companys cloud computing strategy, positioning it as the next-generation cloud. Additionally, Microsoft has launched a programming language called Q# which can be used for simulating quantum algorithms and developing quantum software.

Google Quantum AI achieved a significant milestone in 2019 by demonstrating quantum supremacy, with its 53-qubit Sycamore quantum computer performing a calculation in 200 seconds that would have taken the worlds fastest supercomputer 10,000 years. The companys Quantum AI research team has continued to push the boundaries of QC by reducing its errors through the increase of qubits, boasting a 3-5x performance enhancement over previous models. Google Quantum AI has also been expediting the prototyping of hybrid quantum-classical machine learning models.

Intel is actively involved in the development of QC chips, such as the 49-qubit Tangle Lake quantum chip. The companys focus on advancing the state of the art in QC reflects its commitment to driving innovation in this transformative technology.

IBM is a leader in QC and has launched advanced quantum computer systems. Last month it introduced the Heron processor, featuring 133 fixed-frequency qubits, which marks a significant leap in QC performance and error reduction. IBM believes that practical, effective QC will be available in the year 2033 and has set a roadmap of development to this date.

Alpine Quantum Technologies has taken a distinctive approach to QC by focusing on trapped-ion quantum technology. The company has developed a 20-qubit ion trap quantum computer using complex laser systems to control the trapped ions. This approach sets AQT apart from other companies that are pursuing different types of QC technologies, such as superconducting qubits or silicon-based approaches.

Rigetti Computings approach to QC is unique due to its focus on a multichip strategy for building quantum processors. This approach involves connecting several identical processors into a large-scale quantum processor, which, the company claims, reduces manufacturing complexity and allows for accelerated, predictable scaling.

While it is still early to predict which companies will emerge as the winners in the QC space, investing in a sector or thematic-based ETF or equity basket may be a prudent option in such uncertainty.

The Defiance Quantum ETF (QTUM) is a multi-cap global fund using the BlueStar Quantum Computing and Machine Learning index as a benchmark.

The ETF primarily includes semiconductor and software companies (AI star Nvidia is the fifth-largest holding) involved in the research, development, and commercialisation of QC systems and materials. The fund has assets of about $200m and rose almost 40% in 2023. I would be surprised if the larger US investment banks dont start to launch similar quantum-tracking equity baskets.

In conclusion, the era of QC holds great promise for reshaping our technological landscape and solving complex problems that are currently beyond the capabilities of classic computing. It should have far-reaching implications for the valuation of various sectors of the equity market.

The economic value unlocked by QC combined with its potential to reshape industries underscores the importance of understanding and preparing for the implications of this transformative technology on the equity market. The integration of AI and QC is expected to drive significant advancements, potentially leading to the realisation of artificial general intelligence.

So keep an eye on things QC-related and be prepared to invest should events dictate.

What might trigger such a change? Well Elon Musk has been remarkably silent on the subject - so may be we should use any change in that state as a signal.

Be warned though that from the bits of classic computing we have suffered Bitcoin, so it will not be long before the perma-perplexed fellow down the pub is boring you about QuBitcoins.

The Secret Tech Investor is an experienced professional who has been running tech assets for more than 20 years. The author may have long or short positions in the stocks mentioned.

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The secret tech investor: Prepare for the quantum leap - Citywire

Fujitsu and Delft University of Technology announced the establishment of the Fujitsu Advanced Computing Lab Delft at Delft University of Technology, an industry-academia collaboration hub dedicated to the development of quantum computing technologies. The new collaboration hub will be positioned as part of the Fujitsu Small Research Lab initiative, which dispatches Fujitsu researchers to technology incubators at leading global universities to conduct joint research with some of the top researchers in their fields, including professors as well as the next generation of innovators.

The Advanced Computing Lab will be established at world-leading quantum technology research institute QuTech a collaboration between Delft University of Technology and the Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) and aims to accelerate R&D of diamond-spin quantum computing, a technology that Fujitsu and Delft University of Technology have been jointly researching since October 2020.

In addition, the two partners will further advance the development of real-world quantum applications, and aim to realize innovative fluid simulation technologies that apply quantum computing to the field of computational fluid dynamics, where large-scale and complex computations represent an ongoing challenge.

As part of efforts to strengthen collaboration with cutting-edge research institutions through global open innovation, Fujitsu has been conducting basic research and development into quantum computers using diamond-based spin qubits with TU Delft.

To date, the two partners have been conducting R&D on quantum computers using diamond-based spin qubits with the aim to create a blueprint for future modular quantum computers that can scale beyond 1,000 qubits. To make practical quantum computing a reality, Fujitsu and Delft University of Technology have been conducting research on associated technology layers, from the device level to control systems, architecture and algorithms. As a result, the two partners realized the worlds first fault-tolerant operation of spin qubits in a diamond quantum processor using the diamond NV center method.

Fujitsu and Delft University of Technology are further working to improve the performance of qubits by integrating SnV centers , which are gaining increasing attention as high-performance diamond spins, in scalable nanophotonic devices showing efficient single-photon coupling.

The two partners have established the Fujitsu Advanced Computing Lab Delft to further strengthen their cooperation and enhance the collaboration and research framework for the development of advanced computing technologies based on quantum technologies. Moving forward, Fujitsu and Delft University of Technology will position the new hub as a leading industry-academia research and development center in Japan and the Netherlands, and promote further collaboration including the development of talent that is able to lead the development of solutions to societal issues using advanced computing technologies.

Read:State Of AI In 2024 In The Top 5 Industries

[1]Fujitsu Small Research Lab :An initiative to achieve greater breakthroughs beyond the results of ordinary joint research. The initiative aims to contribute to the solution of social issues, while accelerating joint research, identifying new research themes, developing human resources, and building medium- to long-term relationships with universities. Fujitsu researchers are embedded at technology incubators at universities in Japan and internationally. [2]QuTech :Formally established in 2015 by Delft University of Technology and the Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO). QuTechs mission is to develop a scalable prototype of a quantum computer and an inherently secure quantum Internet based on the fundamental laws of quantum mechanics. [3]The worlds first fault-tolerant operation of spin qubits in a diamond quantum processor :QuTech and Fujitsu realise the fault-tolerant operation of a qubit (QuTech press release May 5, 2022): https://QuTech.nl/2022/05/05/QuTech-and-fujitsu-realise-fault-tolerant-operation-of-qubit/, Abobeih et al. (2022), Fault-tolerant operation of a logical qubit in a diamond quantum processor, Nature, DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-04819-6 [4]Diamond NV Center :A defect consisting of a vacancy in the diamond lattice next to a nitrogen atom, where a carbon atom is typically found. [5]SnV Center :A defect consisting of a vacancy in the diamond lattice next to a tin (Sn), where a carbon atom is typically found. [6]FTQC :Abbreviation for fault-tolerant quantum computation; performance of quantum computation without errors while correcting quantum errors

[To share your insights with us as part of editorial or sponsored content, please write tosghosh@martechseries.com]

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Fujitsu and Delft University of Technology Collaborate to Establish Cutting-Edge Quantum Lab - AiThority

In the same way that cream blends into coffee, transforming it from a whirl of white to a uniform brown, quantum computer chips face a challenge.

These devices operate on the minuscule scale of the universes fundamental particles, where data can quickly become chaotic, limiting memory efficiency.

However, new research spearheaded by Rahul Nandkishore, an associate professor of physics at the University of Colorado Boulder, suggests a groundbreaking approach that could revolutionize data retention in quantum computing.

Nandkishore and his team, through mathematical modeling, propose a scenario akin to cream and coffee that never mix, regardless of how much they are stirred.

This concept, if realized, could lead to significant advancements in quantum computer chips, providing engineers with novel methods for storing data in extremely small scales.

Nandkishore, the senior author of the study, illustrates his idea using the familiar sight of cream swirling in coffee, imagining these patterns remaining dynamic indefinitely.

Think of the initial swirling patterns that appear when you add cream to your morning coffee, said Nandkishore. Imagine if these patterns continued to swirl and dance no matter how long you watched.

This concept is central to the study, which involved David Stephen and Oliver Hart, postdoctoral researchers in physics at CU Boulder.

Quantum computers differ fundamentally from classical computers. While the latter operate on bits (zeros or ones), quantum computers use qubits, which can exist as zero, one, or both simultaneously.

Despite their potential, qubits can easily become disordered, leading to a loss of coherent data, much like the inevitable blending of cream into coffee.

Nandkishore and his teams solution lies in arranging qubits in specific patterns that maintain their information even under disturbances, like magnetic fields.

This could be a way of storing information, he said. You would write information into these patterns, and the information couldnt be degraded.

This arrangement could allow for the creation of devices with quantum memory, where data, once written into these patterns, remains uncorrupted.

The researchers employed mathematical models to envision an array of hundreds to thousands of qubits in a checkerboard pattern.

They discovered that tightly packing qubits influences their neighboring qubits behavior, akin to a crowded phone booth where movement is severely limited.

This specific arrangement might enable the patterns to flow around a quantum chip without degrading, much like the enduring swirls of cream in a cup of coffee.

Nandkishore notes that this studys implications extend beyond quantum computing.

The wonderful thing about this study is that we discovered that we could understand this fundamental phenomenon through what is almost simple geometry, Nandkishore said.

It challenges the common understanding that everything in the universe, from coffee to oceans, moves toward thermal equilibrium, where differences in temperature eventually even out, like ice melting in a warm drink.

His findings suggest that certain matter organizations might resist this equilibrium, potentially defying some long-standing physical laws.

While further experimentation is necessary to validate these theoretical swirls, the study represents a significant stride in the quest to create materials that stay out of equilibrium for extended periods.

This pursuit, known as ergodicity breaking, could redefine our understanding of statistical physics and its application to everyday phenomena.

As Nandkishore puts it, while we wont need to rewrite the math for ice and water, there are scenarios where traditional statistical physics might not apply, opening new frontiers in quantum computing and beyond.

The full study was published in the journal Physical Review Letters.

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Coffee, creamer, and the Quantum Realm - Earth.com

L3Harris successfully completed its Critical Design Review (CDR) and Production Readiness Review (PRR) for 16 missile tracking satellites that will be part of the Space Development Agencys (SDA) Tranche 1 Tracking Layer (T1TRK) program.

Hypersonic missiles pose a serious threat to global stability and security because they are hard to detect, track, and intercept. They can be launched from various locations and can change direction rapidly during flight. To deter their use and, when needed, to defeat them, the United States requires a resilient sensor platform to track their movements and ensure the countrys national security.

The recent CDR and PRR milestones achieved by L3Harris demonstrate progress towards SDAs Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, which aims to establish a network of military satellites in low-Earth orbit to provide enhanced situational awareness and tracking capabilities. The CDR milestone demonstrates that L3Harris design will meet the mission requirements, while the PRR provides L3Harris with the SDAs approval to begin the full production process.

The Tranche 1 Tracking Layer developed by L3Harris relies on infrared sensors and advanced algorithms to detect, track, and fuse threat data. The information is then relayed in real-time to the warfighter through a meshed network that employs both optical and RF communications.

In addition, the space vehicles can be commanded from the ground to a range of pointing modes that provide further insight into threat tracks. L3Harris also provides supporting ground, operations, and sustainment throughout the lifespan of the program.

L3Harris is working hard to meet launch schedule commitments for their missile-tracking satellites. They started fabrication of critical sub-assemblies before the CDR and PRR and have successfully transitioned to the assembly and integration phase. Theyre working with over 20 major subcontractors and dozens of suppliers to provide critical parts for the satellites and ground systems.

The satellites are slated for launch in 2025 and will feature advanced technology designed to counter the fastest, most maneuverable hypersonic missiles.

L3Harris is working in lockstep with the SDA to get these critical capabilities on-orbit and into the hands of the nations warfighters as quickly as possible, L3Harris Director of Program Management Bob De Cort said in the statement. The SDA takes a fundamentally fresh and different approach than traditional defense contracting. Rather than investing schedule and funds in single point solutions, the SDA acquisition plan breaks from tradition to use spiral development leveraging interoperable commercial technologies to deploy tranches of satellites every couple of years.

De Cort continued, Our recent success at CDR and PRR show that we are the leading partner within SDAs Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, demonstrating not just missile warning and tracking but the beyond line of sight targeting that the warfighters need to enhance Americas strategic deterrence from space.

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New error correction approach simplifies quantum computing - Inceptive Mind

Researchers at EPFL make significant advances in quantum physics by exposing a peculiar and enigmatic behavior in a quantum magnetic material and providing hints about potential future technological developments.

Image Credit:ArtemisDiana/Shutterstock.com

The world of quantum materials is a mysterious place where things do not always behave as expected. These materials can perform tasks in ways that traditional materials cannot, such as conducting electricity without loss or having magnetic properties that may prove useful in advanced technologies. These unique properties are governed by the laws of quantum mechanics.

Certain quantum materials have minute magnetic waves, known as magnons, circulating through them. These waves exhibit peculiar behaviors. Gaining an understanding of magnons is essential for deciphering the microscopic workings of magnets, which will be important for the development of next-generation computers and electronics.

Up until recently, researchers believed they understood what to expect from the studies of these magnons behavior in strong magnetic fields. Researchers at EPFL, led by Henrik Rnnow and Frdric Mila, have revealed a new and unexpected behavior in strontium copper borate (SrCu2(BO3)2), a quantum material. Although the study casts doubt on what is already known about quantum physics, it also raises intriguing possibilities for next-generation technologies.

But why this particular content? SrCu2(BO3)2 is significant in the field of quantum materials, though the specifics are highly technical. This is because it is the only known real-world example of the Shastry-Sutherland model, a theoretical framework for comprehending structures where atoms' interactions and arrangement prevent them from settling into a simple, ordered state.

Known as highly frustrated lattices, these structures frequently endow the quantum material with complex, peculiar behaviors and characteristics. Therefore, SrCu2(BO3)2 is a perfect candidate to study intricate quantum phenomena and transitions due to its unique structure.

Neutron scattering is a method that the scientists used to study the magnons in SrCu2(BO3)2. In essence, they exposed the material to neutrons and measured how many of them deflected off of it. Since neutrons have no charge and can therefore analyze magnetism without being affected by the charge of the materials electrons or nuclei, neutron scattering is especially useful in the study of magnetic materials.

This work was done at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin's high-field neutron scattering facility, which could probe fields as high as 25.9 Tesla. This level of magnetic field study was unprecedented and allowed the scientists to see the behavior of the magnons up close.

Subsequently, the scientists integrated the data with cylinder matrix-product-states computations, an effective computational technique that supported the experimental findings from the neutron scattering and clarified the two-dimensional quantum behaviors of the material.

The novel method disclosed a startling finding: the material's magnons were forming bound states, or pairing up to dance, rather than acting as single, independent unities as would have been predicted.

The spin-nematic phase, a novel and unexpected quantum state with ramifications for the materials properties, is the result of this peculiar pairing. Imagine it like this: unlike regular magnets on a fridge, which point either way (that is their spin), the focus of this new phase is on how the magnets align with one another to form a distinctive pattern rather than on their direction of orientation.

This is a fascinating finding. It exposes a previously unseen behavior in magnetic materials. This discovery of a hidden law of quantum mechanics may open our minds to previously unconsidered uses of magnetic materials in quantum technologies.

The research was funded by the European Research Council (ERC) Synergy network HERO, the

Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF), and the Qatar Foundation.

More from AZoQuantum: Quantum-Inspired Noise-Resistant Phase Imaging

Fogh, E., et al. (2024) Field-induced bound-state condensation and spin-nematic phase in SrCu2(BO3)2 revealed by neutron scattering up to 25.9 T. Nature Communications. doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-44115-z

Source: https://www.epfl.ch/en/

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Unexpected Pairing Paves the Way for Computing Devices - AZoQuantum