Intel’s New Processor Benefits Quantum Tech

Tunnel Falls, Intel’s new 12-qubit quantum processing unit (or QPU), was specifically created to attract scientists to realize the full potential of quantum computing. The quantum silicon processor will be available to a few universities and other institutions in the U.S., providing researchers a greater opportunity to tinker with quantum hardware firsthand.

The new processor delivers twice the qubits compared with a similar component announced last year. The new chip is part of Intel’s long-term strategy to build a full-stack commercial quantum computing system.

So far, Google, IBM, and others are taking a different approach creating powerful versions of technology that are accessed remotely using software rather than distributing the hardware. In comparison, Intel wants to make the transition to quantum computing easier. Nature Electronics states, “Silicon may be the platform with the greatest potential to deliver scaled-up quantum computing.”

Intel’s chips, including Tunnel Falls, use tiny structures called quantum dots that trap single electrons, used to store and read quantum information by its spin. What’s important for Intel is that the chips can be produced with just a few tweaks to standard production lines. They are more straightforward to make than other types of qubits, but they are still incredibly delicate and sophisticated technology. With more qubits produced, Intel can share them with other researchers.

Research teams, such as those at the Sandia National Laboratories, should be able to improve these QPUs’ performance and reduce quantum’s inherent error rates. Diverse approaches, like Tunnel Falls, are a positive way to accelerate the massive challenges of quantum computing.