IBM announces 433-qubit quantum processor, Bosch taps IBM's quantum computers in search for alternative EV metals

IBM remains firm at the forefront of the quantum computing race, as the company recently announced that development for the 433-qubit quantum processing unit (QPU) planned for 2022 has been completed. The latest QPU codenamed Osprey integrates 3.4X more qubits compared to the 2021 Eagle model with 127 qubits. For 2023, IBM aims to essentially triple the qubit count once again, with the roadmap showing a Condor 1121-qubit QPU. By 2025, IBM plans to release a QPU with 4158 qubits, and the numbers may increase exponentially achieving tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of qubits towards the end of this decade.

We are continuously scaling up and advancing [...] quantum technology across hardware, software and classical integration to meet the biggest challenges of our time, in conjunction with our partners and clients worldwide. This work will prove foundational for the coming era of quantum-centric supercomputing.
                                     -Senior Vice President of IBM and Director of Research Dr. Dario Gil-

The new Osprey QPU also introduces a new way to transmit microwave control information to the operating qubits. Previous models utilized coaxial cables, but IBM has managed to replace these with flexible ribbon cables similar to the ones used to connect laptop displays. This solution offers higher throughput and increased control density by up to 70%, and at the same time reduces costs by a factor of 5.

Unfortunately, quantum processors nowadays still cannot be utilized by the average consumer in any meaningful way. However, IBM offers access to its network of quantum supercomputers via a cloud service that takes advantage of the Qiskit open-source software. This way, anyone can interact with the quantum computers, but these really come in handy for complex research projects planned by institutions and large corporations. Bosch, for instance, is collaborating with IBM to find sustainable alternatives to the rare and expensive metals that power electric vehicles.

DigiTimes reports that Robert Bosch GmbH will tap the processing power of twenty IBM quantum supercomputers in order to research viable replacements for some metals with scarce global supply, such as nickel, copper or lithium, and rare-earth elements that are needed to build electric motors as well as fuel cells. IBM’s new quantum processors will help simulate the adequate properties for the alternative materials. Bosch is said to have readied a team of 30 for the quantum supercomputer research.

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