In the race for quantum technology supremacy , two giants stand out: China and the United States . Both nations have committed substantial resources to advance their quantum computing capabilities, achieving remarkable milestones along the way. Yet, another country is placing its bets on becoming a key player in this groundbreaking technology: Japan. Earlier this year, Fujitsu and the Riken Center for Quantum Computing revealed a striking achievement—a quantum computer utilizing 256 superconducting qubits . This announcement sparked conversations about Japan’s ambitions in the quantum realm.
While Japan’s achievement may initially seem modest compared to IBM’s powerful 1,121-qubit Condor processor and China’s Xiaohong quantum processor boasting 504 qubits , Japan’s plans extend significantly beyond this initial milestone. By the year 2030 , Fujitsu aims to unveil a quantum computer that is 25% more powerful than the most potent quantum machine that IBM will offer at that time. This aspiration positions Japan as a formidable contender in the quantum computing landscape.
250 Logical Qubits to Make a Difference
The ambitious design and development of this advanced quantum computer are currently underway, involving collaboration between the Riken Center for Quantum Computing, Fujitsu, and the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology . Utilizing superconducting qubits alongside an advanced cooling system—likely a dilution system reminiscent of the one presented in April—the project promises to enhance quantum computing performance significantly. The standout feature of this machine will be its 250 logical qubits .
Each logical qubit plays a crucial role in error correction and performance.
Logical qubits present a versatile approach to tackle the challenges associated with using *physical qubits,* which are highly sensitive to noise and errors. Each logical qubit is architected using multiple physical qubits to create a single point of quantum information with redundancy capabilities. This redundancy allows for effective error detection and correction among the unreliable physical qubits, thereby enhancing overall computational reliability.
Until recently, the amount of hardware qubits required for a single error-resistant logical qubit was impractical. However, IBM claims to have developed a solution to this dilemma, and it appears that Fujitsu and the Riken Center are on a similar path. IBM has announced plans to create the ‘Starling’ quantum computer at a new data center in Poughkeepsie, New York . This anticipated machine will integrate 200 logical qubits, theoretically enabling it to perform 100 million quantum operations .
IBM asserts that ‘Starling’ will be operational by 2029 , but Fujitsu and Riken aim to have their 250 logical qubits machine ready by 2030 . If successful, Japan could well lead the charge in this exciting field. Significant goals lie ahead—prior to 2030, Fujitsu is also working toward a quantum machine featuring 1,000 qubits by 2026. It’s important to clarify that these will be conventional qubits susceptible to errors, yet their achievement would propel Japan closer to its goal of quantum leadership.
Japan’s growing involvement in quantum computing complements its existing semiconductor industry, bolstering its intention to become a dominant player in the technology sector. For years, the nation has been a leader in semiconductor manufacturing, a critical component for any quantum computing initiative. As countries worldwide race against each other in this cutting-edge technology, the spotlight will increasingly shine on Japan to determine whether it can deliver on its ambitious objectives. As the technological landscape continues to evolve, the implications of quantum computing may redefine industries, from finance to drug discovery.
Image | Fujitsu
More information | Nikkei Asia
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