Scientists have created the world’s smallest quantum computer, which can perform calculations without needing to be cooled to near absolute zero like traditional systems. The machine is roughly the size of a desktop PC and uses just one photon as its qubit, allowing it to work at room temperature.
The new device stores information in 32 “time-bins” or dimensions within the wave packet of a single photon, setting a world record for computing dimensions accessed by a single qubit. This technology is more efficient and cheaper than traditional methods, consuming less energy and requiring less complex equipment.
Previous attempts using photons have been hindered by their probabilistic nature, making it difficult to corral them in large numbers. However, researchers have developed a way to compress all the information into one stable photon, allowing for more complex calculations.
The breakthrough opens doors for integrating this technology into future quantum communication networks and classical computing systems that use light-based transmission methods. The development is significant, marking a step towards improving storage capacity of single photons to tackle more complex calculations in the future.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/technology/computing/scientists-build-the-smallest-quantum-computer-in-the-world-it-works-at-room-temperature-and-you-can-fit-it-on-your-desk