The Global Race To Make a Practical Quantum Computer Just Took a Big Leap Forward
It's "radically different from other quantum computers" reports Phys.org. The Helios system uses trapped ions — charged atoms suspended in free space using electromagnetic fields. But it operates with 98 qubits — making it the largest trapped-ion quantum computer built so far. Quantinuum, the company behind the device, is based in Cambridge, U.K., and Broomfield, Colorado. It demonstrated earlier…
The Helios quantum computer, developed by Quantinuum, has made significant strides in the global race to create practical quantum computers. Operating with 98 qubits, it is currently the largest trapped-ion quantum computer ever built. Quantinuum, headquartered in Cambridge, U.K., and Broomfield, Colorado, showcased earlier models with 32 qubits in 2023 and 56 qubits in 2025.
The Helios system's advancement can be attributed to two major breakthroughs - hardware and software. The four-way X junction allows multiple tasks to be carried out simultaneously, significantly speeding up operations. This feature was not possible in previous QCCD machines, which could only process data in a single line or loop.
Furthermore, the Helios runtime software optimizes data movement and processing in this two-dimensional X junction, enhancing the overall performance of the computer. By combining these elements, Helios can execute computations that even the most powerful supercomputers cannot perform in reasonable time frames or power consumption.
While these random benchmark tests demonstrate the potential of this device and its successors to outperform classical computers, practical applications in science and commerce are still limited. To achieve truly impactful quantum computing in these fields, the technology needs to grow considerably, potentially reaching a million qubits.
Written by urgent.news from Slashdot's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
