- Xanadu introduces Aurora, the first modular photon-based quantum computer.
- The system uses 35 photonic chips connected via 13 kilometers of optical fiber.
- Its architecture allows scalability without the need for extreme temperatures.
- This technology is projected to drive the creation of a quantum data center by 2029.
Quantum computing is advancing by leaps and bounds, and recently the company Xanadu has released Aurora, its new system based on photonic technology. Unlike other quantum proposals that require temperatures close to absolute zero, this innovative machine operates at room temperature, which makes it a accessible alternative y Management for the future of computing.
The announcement of this breakthrough was published in the prestigious magazine Nature and stands out for its modular architecture, a key feature that will facilitate the scalability of these systems. With this technology, a new path is opened for quantum computing, with application possibilities in various areas, from materials research to Artificial Intelligence.
A photon-based design
Instead of using superconducting qubits like other quantum developments, Aurora uses photons, that is, particles of light, to encode and process information. Its design is based on 35 photonic chips interconnected by a fiber optic network that covers 13 kilometers, distributed across four server racks.
One of the great advantages of this approach is that does not require expensive cooling systems, which simplifies their implementation and reduces operating costs. In addition, photons are less susceptible to external interference, which prolongs the stability of quantum calculations.
Scalability and the future of quantum computing
The main challenge of quantum computing is increase the number of operational qubits without losing reliability in the calculations. Currently, Aurora has 12 qubits, a figure lower than that of other quantum computers. However, its modular design allows the progressive expansion, which could lead to the creation of systems with millions of qubits in the future.
According to Christian Weedbrook, CEO of Xanadu, achieving this number of qubits on a single chip is not feasible, so the only option is a qubit-based approach. interconnected modulesThis model would allow for the construction of more powerful quantum systems without the limitations from traditional approaches.
Other companies like IBM and Google have bet on superconductivity in their quantum computers, but Xanadu's photonic technology has a significant advantage: Compatibility with existing fiber optic networks. This would facilitate its integration with current infrastructures without the need for big changes.
Challenges and long-term plans
Despite its advantages, Aurora still faces obstacles. The loss of photons due to their absorption or scattering in optical components remains a problem, since these errors may affect the accuracy of calculations.
Xanadu is already working on solutions to improve the efficiency of optical components and reduce photon losses. It is expected that in the next two years this will be achieved substantial progress in this aspect.
In addition, the company has proposed an ambitious project aimed at creating a quantum data center by 2029. This objective seeks to establish an advanced infrastructure that allows us to take full advantage of the potential of photon-based quantum computing.
The development of Aurora marks a milestone in quantum computing and suggests that the era of commercial quantum processors is closer than previously thought. Thanks to its modular architecture and the use of photonic technology, this system could pave the way for a new generation of scalable quantum computing and accessible.
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