The Center for Excellence in Quantum Information and Quantum Physics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) has made a groundbreaking advancement in quantum computing with the introduction of the Xiaohong chip. This 504-qubit superconducting quantum computing chip sets a new record for China in the realm of superconducting quantum technology. 504 qubits sets a new record as to the number of qubits on a superconducting chip made in China. Delivered to QuantumCTek Co., Ltd., it represents a significant step forward in the nation’s quantum capabilities.  This chip isn’t just a big deal for China; it’s a game-changer for the whole world of quantum computing.

The Xiaohong chip is designed to validate the kilo-qubit measurement and control system independently developed by QuantumCTek. This system is integral to the functioning of quantum computers, as it manages the coherence and operations of the qubits, the fundamental units of quantum information. Ensuring the qubits maintain their quantum state for extended periods is crucial for complex computations, and this is one of the key performance metrics of the Xiaohong chip. Additionally, the chip achieves high accuracy in executing quantum gates, the basic operations performed on qubits, and has the capability to run complex quantum algorithms without significant errors. These performance metrics are essential for ensuring the Xiaohong chip meets or exceeds the standards of leading international quantum computing platforms. The chip’s primary purpose is to foster the development of robust and scalable quantum computing measurement and control systems, rather than achieving immediate quantum supremacy.

One of the most exciting aspects of the Xiaohong chip is its potential integration into a quantum computing cloud platform.

This initiative is part of a collaboration between QuantumCTek and China Telecom Quantum Group. The goal is to create a quantum computer that can be accessed globally through this quantum cloud platform, making advanced quantum computing resources available to a broader audience. The quantum cloud platform will enable users from various fields to conduct research on complex problems and algorithms efficiently. By leveraging the advanced capabilities of the Xiaohong chip, researchers can explore practical applications of quantum computing in areas such as cryptography, material science, and complex system simulations.

The Xiaohong chip builds on China’s previous achievements in quantum computing, such as the Jiuzhang 2.0 and Zuchongzhi 2.1 systems. These systems demonstrated China’s ability to achieve quantum computational advantage using both photonics and superconducting quantum computing technologies. The Xiaohong chip’s focus on advanced measurement and control systems is crucial for scaling up quantum computers, ensuring accurate and efficient management of qubits for complex quantum computations.

The collaboration between QuantumCTek and China Telecom Quantum Group aims to develop a quantum computer using the Xiaohong chip. According to Wang Zhen, deputy general manager of China Telecom Quantum Group, this quantum computer will be accessible to global users via a quantum computing cloud platform developed by China Telecom Quantum Group. This partnership is expected to accelerate the application of quantum computing in practical scenarios, enabling researchers and developers to tackle complex problems and develop innovative solutions.

The development of the Xiaohong chip marks a significant milestone in China’s quantum computing journey. By focusing on advanced measurement and control systems and integrating these innovations into a quantum cloud platform, China is creating a robust infrastructure for quantum computing. The Xiaohong chip not only advances the technical capabilities of quantum computers but also facilitates broader access to quantum resources, accelerating research and practical applications in this cutting-edge field.