IBM has launched a quantum computer for the business market. The so-called IBM Q System One enables companies to model complex data, such as investments and risks. Until now, quantum computers were only available for research laboratories. IBM announced this during the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
The IBM Q System One is not a computer that can be ordered and delivered just like that. This is a glass cube, approximately 3 by 3 metres in size. This is equipped with the exact correct temperature and other conditions, so that the quantum computer can do its job optimally. Even though there are possibilities to get IBM’s new flagship installed on location, it is not necessary. Developers have access to their computer via IBM Cloud.
Exponentially more data
Quantum computers are capable of processing exponentially more data than normal computers. They have the potential to completely transform entire industries. Although the technology is still at an early stage, it is therefore considered to be very promising.
Classic computers store data in binary numbers, either zeros or ones. Quantum computers, on the other hand, are much more powerful because they store data using qubits. These have a special feature that allows zeros and ones to coexist at the same time.
As a result, quantum computers can do exponentially more calculations at once, making them powerful enough for complicated tasks such as drug discovery, intensive data analysis or the creation of unbreakable codes. These powerhouses could, for example, streamline aviation and military systems, calculate risk factors in favour of investment or find a cure for cancer and other diseases.
Quantum Computation Centre
The IBM Q System One is an important step forward in the commercialization of quantum computing. This new system is crucial to expanding quantum computing beyond the walls of the research laboratory, while we are working on the development of practical quantum applications for business and science, said Arvind Krishna, senior vice president of hybrid cloud and research director at IBM, in a statement to Business Insider.
IBM will also open its first IBM Q Quantum Computation Centre for commercial customers in Poughkeepsie, New York, later this year. In this laboratory, customers can use IBM’s cloud-based quantum computer systems. In addition to other powerful calculation systems.
Competitors
In addition to IBM, other major IT players are also focusing on komentumputing. For example, Google is currently investigating the possibility of making quantum computers more stable and how errors can be better found and solved. Google would also be testing qubit processors.
Microsoft, in turn, is developing hybrid quantum computers. These combine the new technology with more conventional processors. In addition, Intel is also developing comtum computer chips and IonQ has built a quantum computer that can do calculations on a 79-qubit array.
Related: New microchip brings optical quantum computer a step closer
This news article was automatically translated from Dutch to give Techzine.eu a head start. All news articles after September 1, 2019 are written in native English and NOT translated. All our background stories are written in native English as well. For more information read our launch article.
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