IBM announces ‘breakthrough’ published on quantum computers

IBM announced a new “breakthrough,” published on the cover of the scientific journal Nature, demonstrating that quantum computers can produce accurate results at a scale of 100+ qubits reaching beyond leading classical approaches. In their experiment, the IBM team demonstrates that it is possible for a quantum computer to outperform leading classical simulations by learning and mitigating errors in the system. The team used the IBM Quantum ‘Eagle’ quantum processor composed of 127 superconducting qubits on a chip to generate large, entangled states that simulate the dynamics of spins in a model of material and accurately predict properties such as its magnetization. “This is the first time we have seen quantum computers accurately model a physical system in nature beyond leading classical approaches,” said Dario Gil, Senior Vice President and Director of IBM Research. “To us, this milestone is a significant step in proving that today’s quantum computers are capable, scientific tools that can be used to model problems that are extremely difficult – and perhaps impossible – for classical systems, signaling that we are now entering a new era of utility for quantum computing.”