Yet more qubit tech: New quantum dot options, diamond vacancies
Companies are making sure we have a surplus of options for building qubits.
Quantum computing enthusiasts have long believed that any system capable of alternating between two well-separated energy states can function as a qubit. Various technologies, including atoms, ions, photons, electrons, and engineered devices, have garnered support. A crucial factor that draws investors to these technologies is their potential for scalability.
As more companies demonstrate the ability to produce high-quality qubits, discussions surrounding the most effective approach to reaching this goal intensify. Some competitors continue to focus on smaller quantities of qubits, believing their technologies possess the potential for greater scalability.
Among the emerging technologies is the quantum dot, which can encapsulate a single electron. The primary advantage of this approach lies in the fact that quantum dots can be manufactured using the same methods employed for traditional processors, a scalability feature that has proven successful. Within the past week, two papers emerged, detailing different methods of utilizing quantum dots. Notably, one of these methods proved so promising that IBM acquired the company responsible for its development.
In another development, a separate company unveiled a processor demonstrating the ability to maintain 100 individual electrons within diamond defects. Although this method might not have been immediately apparent as scalable, the innovation has piqued interest within the quantum computing community.
Written by urgent.news from Ars Technica Science's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
