A new approach to reducing errors in quantum computers may make it possible to build machines with as few as 10,000 qubits, down from the millions needed previously. Researchers at Caltech and Oratomic have developed a more efficient error-correction architecture that could enable fault-tolerant quantum computing by the end of the decade.
Current quantum computers require large numbers of qubits to function accurately due to errors caused by superposition and entanglement. However, this approach is challenging to scale up. The new method uses neutral atom arrays, which can connect qubits over long distances, enabling more efficient error correction. This could reduce the number of physical qubits required for each logical qubit from 1,000 to just five.
The researchers propose using these ultra-efficient error-correction schemes to achieve fault-tolerant quantum computing with neutral atom architectures. They aim to create a future where quantum “supercomputers” can be used to solve complex scientific problems and improve daily life through encryption and other applications.
While the results are theoretical, experimental advances in neutral atom systems have been rapid in recent years. However, significant engineering challenges remain to combine these capabilities into scalable systems. The next steps will involve scaling up larger arrays like those of the Caltech team and demonstrating low error rates.
This breakthrough could lead to a future where quantum computing becomes more accessible and has a major impact on fields such as medicine, sustainability, machine learning, and more.
Source: https://www.caltech.edu/about/news/caltech-team-finds-useful-quantum-computers-could-be-built-with-as-few-as-10000-qubits